When I applied to this camp, there were things I wish I would've known or paid more attention to and I feel like I would be doing a disservice if I didn't share these things. I would like to remain anonymous so that I can express my experience freely because I want others considering this program to be equipped when making their decision. Here are my top 10 things you should know about working for them:
1. You may be put on hold in Sanremo or Milan. In the Milan flat, there are 2 rooms (and an extra room which is reserved for a team leader), 7 beds, 2 bathrooms, 1 shower, one mini fridge, & many mosquitos. I have **heard** that the San Remo flat isn't the cleanest and doesn't have a washing machine. Last year they overhired, so being put on hold was likely.
Also, you are not paid during hold. I would suggest having some money saved up before coming. You have the choice of traveling around while you are on hold. But, bear in mind, this is the summertime in Italy (in Europe, in general)--- things are pricey.
2. The host families are usually very nice and can make the experience wonderful. I have heard of some host families taking in some tutors when they are put on hold. However, sometimes there are members who aren't fully on board w a host kid. Sometimes it was one person who had to convince the family to host, and you can tell. I have *heard* of stories where there were fights around the dinner table about hosting. Sometimes you aren't going to bond with your host family. It's normal, but you should still remain respectful. They had a good section where the leaders talked about respect in Italian households during orientation that I found very beneficial.
3. They typically place you in a small town (which are nice). If you are looking to only be in big cities the whole time, please do not have this expectation.
4. Teaching facilities can vary: maybe a school, or maybe you're outside. I know some tutors who had to teach outside in the heat. It's random.
5. You have to be flexible. If you are looking for stability such as knowing exactly where you are going, exactly how much money you are going to end up with, exactly which age group you will be teaching, and exactly what your host family will be like, you will not find that here. But in all fairness, many camps like these do not provide that. Many things are random for the tutor: host families, teaching facilities, on hold/not on hold, the city, etc. This is why I titled this "This could be great or not so great." As many great experiences that I heard about last year, I also heard negative ones. Some tutors (last year) went in with the expectation that they are going to make a stable income this summer & were put on hold for weeks. Some tutors knew exactly where they were going for camps during the summer and were able to plan their on-hold trips. Some tutors had that "Italian summer" like in the movies and were with great host families, tutors, and helpers. I even heard of some people experiencing romance. I also heard of some people having issues with their payments. I heard some people saying they can't wait to come back next summer. I heard some people vowing that they would never work for this company again. It's all random which is why I do not want to create a review that invalidates anyone's experience regarding their time with this company. I believe that people had great experiences and horrible experiences with this company.
When it comes to knowing where you are going and having a glimpse into your next destination, you are not told where you will be (for the next camp or being on hold) until Wednesday or Thursday. Camps are typically for 1 to 2 weeks, with an occasional 3 weeks. You just have to come ready for anything and be ready to be flexible.
6. As someone who still teaches, I will say that the teaching experiences and the knowledge you gain are very nice. There are many resources that I gained during my time there that I use now. Such as games, songs, attention grabbers, and other teaching resources. They also give you a handbook (to keep), and it's filled with a lot of good information to help you teach during the camp and after.
7. You may have to share a room with another tutor. I *heard* of some tutors sharing a bed.
8. Italy honestly is really beautiful. I find myself looking at my photos from last summer and reminiscing on its beauty.
9. At the beginning of August there are not a lot of camps available. Prepare to be put on hold or find somewhere to go.
10. I recommend packing light because you are moving around every few weeks, bringing a water bottle, an ice cube tray, and an electric fan (!).
