Being part of this program for the past two years has been an incredible, transformative experience that I’ll treasure forever. My journey began in Austria during my first year, and I returned for a second year in Italy. Both years, I was a director, it challenged me in ways that pushed me to grow as a teacher and as a person.
One of the most rewarding challenges was navigating language barriers. I didn’t speak the local language, and yet I found creative ways to connect with my host families, campers, and colleagues. Whether it was through gestures, visual aids, or lots of patience and laughter, I discovered how to communicate effectively and teach in a way that transcended words. These moments of collaboration and understanding taught me that kindness and enthusiasm are universal languages.
What I learned during these summers has directly influenced my teaching back in America. I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for cultural differences, the importance of adaptability, and the value of building genuine connections with students. These lessons have shaped me into a better, more empathetic teacher in my 4th grade classroom (in America).
The camps themselves were long days but overall incredible. I had the privilege of leading engaging, fun-filled activities that made learning English exciting for the campers. Watching the kids confidence grow over time was one of the most fulfilling parts of my experience.
Ashleigh, Alessio, and Nate, the owners of the company, are remarkable people. Their support, kindness, and dedication to this program made everything possible. Even though they weren’t physically present at the camps, I always felt they had my back. They went above and beyond to ensure that we had the good experience.
The first year I was placed in a host family situation that didn’t work out. However, the staff handled it with incredible care and efficiency, quickly placing me with a better host family where I felt safe and welcomed. My second year with host families was even more amazing. I had incredible host families with whom I still keep in touch—they truly became like family to me and can’t wait to see them again.
This program has been life-changing. It’s more than just teaching English—it’s about building relationships, immersing yourself in new cultures, and growing in ways you never imagined. I cannot recommend it enough to anyone looking for a meaningful adventure!
