Maximo Nivel

Program Reviews

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Anne
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Medical service group

The medical volunteer program was a wonderful experience with a patient doctor that took the time to educate us. Setting up clinic in the most rural locations provided an opportunity to see local residents and areas that one would not be able to otherwise. The patients we saw were so kind and patient with our beginner language ability. Our host family was great! There was plenty of time for exploring and having fun on our own. The food and coffee did not disappoint. Guatemala and especially the area of Antigua is beautiful! I need to learn Spanish and come back where I can be more helpful in clinic.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Learn at least the basics to speak Spanish!
Pros
  • Seeing rural Guatemala
  • Cultural experience
  • Inexpensive
Cons
  • Felt a little unsafe at night traveling to host house. Use transportation and travel in groups.
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Aleigh
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Amazing experience!

I had the most amazing time learning from the people of Guatemala and experiencing their culture. I would recommend this to everyone who is interested in doing a volunteer trip. My life is forever impacted in the best was possible and I will never forget the people I have met. I believe everyone should travel abroad and volunteer and learn about different cultures. You meet many new friends and gain so much experience learning about different cultures and their healthcare system. I am definitely doing this again!

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
I knew some Spanish before this trip, but if I were to do it again, I would learn Spanish before I came.
Pros
  • Meeting new friends!
  • Learning all about the culture!
  • Learning Spanish!
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Holland
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Guatemala 2024!

This experience exceeded all my expectations! Throwing myself into something I’ve never done before and was super nervous for was a hug deal for me and I’m so glad I did! I have learned so much and am so grateful I could spend this time down here that I will remember for a lifetime! I had so much fun, explored, made great friends but most of all got to experience culture not a lot of people get to do! I enjoyed every moment I was here and it truly was an experience of a life time. I am coming out with so much than I came in with and for that I’m thankful! Thank you!!

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
The most nerve racking moment was starting to interact with the patients we saw. I did not know lots of Spanish before coming here and so I was very worried about the communication barrier. Although it wasn’t great it got better throughout the week and I have grown so much from it. I threw myself into it and took full advantage of the experience to make it the best I could!
Pros
  • Experience
  • Friends/support
  • Explore
Cons
  • Communication barrier
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Rory
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great online TEFL, followed by job opportunities.

I took up the Maximo Nivel online TEFL course after A LOT of research. It seems the online TEFL world is full of scams, and Maximo combined the reassurance of learning from an established ESL institution with a great price. They really know what they're doing from seasoned experience in the classroom, teaching the same techniques that work for them in the institute.

I know this because after completing my TEFL, I was offered a job in Cusco, Peru. It's been a fantastic opportunity to put what I learned into practice, and so I know fully well just how effective the teaching of this online course is.

What would you improve about this program?
The only thing that could be improved, in my opinion, is the removal of infrequent bugs. Sometimes I would complete the content of a module, but would need to scroll back over the content for it to register as completed and allow me to move on.

That's it. That's the only thing.
Pros
  • Personal tutor was readily available to help.
  • Self-paced.
  • Well-explained and well-tested content.
Cons
  • Occasional software bugs
  • That's it.
  • No, really, that's it.
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Donna
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Medical Volunteer Antigua Guatemala

What a wonderful experience. I was on edge at first as you are not provided much information about your homestay or program until arrival but it all exceeded my expectations. From my first interaction with Kayla to my last with Jorge it has truly been exceptional. My only wish is that I had booked at least two weeks. My homestay was with Yolando and it was in a beautiful gated community in a lovely home. I'm already itching to book my next and I haven't left yet. My volunteer experience was at a clinic for the elderly. Jackie and Esparanza (on site staff) are such wonderful people. We could not have done it without their kindness, professionalism and warmth. Every single patient will tug at your heart string. As a solo traveler not having all the info upfront can be unerving, so if that makes you hesitant I'm here to tell u book it! You wont regret it

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Heidi
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Incredible Experience

My experience volunteering and taking Spanish lessons with Maximo Nivel in Cusco, Perú was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warmth and enthusiasm by the dedicated team, who all made me feel like so welcome and safe.

The volunteering program provided me with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the local community. The Maximo Nivel team ensured that I was happy and comfortable in my volunteering project, checking up on me all the time.

Overall, my experience was exceptional. I not only gained valuable skills and knowledge, but I also formed meaningful connections and had the opportunity to make a positive impact. I highly recommend Maximo Nivel to anyone looking for an unforgettable and rewarding experience abroad.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
Probably alpaca or ‘cuy’ which is guinea pig!!
Pros
  • Spending time with my lovely host family
  • Going to the Salsa classes at Maximo Nivel
  • Looking after the elderly and kids through my volunteering
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Ciara
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Online with Maximo Nivel!

I really enjoyed my online TEFL course with Maximo Nivel! The flexibility of the online format allowed me to complete the course while working full-time, and my advisor, Sean, was able to meet whenever I needed. Even with the online format, the quality of the course content was high. A friend who works in higher education reviewed the materials and commented that much of what was taught would take one or more U.S. college courses to complete, as opposed to getting it all with the certification. The week of virtual practical teaching allowed me to grow as an educator and feel confident moving forward that I have what it takes to manage a classroom, virtual OR in person. I look forward to finding my first TEFL job and starting to teach!

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Emelia
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great Opportunity!

I thoroughly enjoyed my volunteer experience in Guatemala. Communication was great before I left and throughout my time in Antigua. The orientation on the first day helped me to know what to expect during the week. Also a staff went with to my first volunteering shift which was helpful to know the expectations. It was amazing to have such a great opportunity to experience the people and learn more about Guatemalan culture. I hope to try other volunteer opportunities in other countries in the future.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Come with an open mind and be willing to step out of your normal routine!
Pros
  • Learn about a new culture
  • Try new experiences
  • Travel during free time
Cons
  • Program fees are a little expensive
  • Not enough time in the day!
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Hannah
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Supportive Environment...and loads of FUN!

I signed up for this program because out of all the TEFL courses I've seen, this one seemed to be the most hands-on and offered the most support. After completing the course, I can confidently say that this is exactly what I got and more!
My instructor, Annabelle, in Costa Rica, made the class engaging, an appropriate amount of challenging, but most importantly fun! There is quite a bit of coursework to get through so having a fun environment is crucial! I'd recommend this experience and especially this instructor to anyone :)
Oh, also! It's true what they say about job assistance! Communicate with them and they'll really help! I was able to have a job lined up with my certificate before I even finished the course.

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Michael
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Wonderful introduction to TEFL

I had a wonderful experience obtaining my TEFL license with Wayne and Maximo Nivel. I couldn't have asked for a more supportive or properly challenging environment. I felt I was able to learn and grow at a pace that was appropriate for my comfort and abilities. The coursework is set up such that TEFLers can get real experience in front of students, which was a huge boost to my confidence. If I didn't have the opportunity to stand in front of students and teach, I don't think I would feel nearly as capable as I do now.
If you're looking to become an English teacher, it would be responsible of you to enroll in this program. You'll be a better teacher for it.

Pros
  • Wayne is amazing
  • Maximo's Staff is fantastic
  • Practical Experience!!!