Just Do It!

Having turned down an offer to study a Master's degree in Finance, I decided to step out into the world and become an English teacher.
There are many companies around the world that offer similar TEFL/TESOL courses. However, Maximo Nivel in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica is the best. Here is why:

Location:
Manuel Antonio is the typical tropical setting: palm trees, exotic wildlife, and the picturesque beaches. People in Costa Rica are friendly and accommodating. On weekends and after class you have the opportunity to visit hotel pools for cocktails, or head down to the beach to body surf, to throw a frisbee, or simply to sunbathe. Manuel Antonio was the perfect setting to reflect on what was important in my life and inspire me to head out into the world to teach English.

TEFL Course:
The main purpose of the TEFL course is to teach you the critical ESL techniques. Along the way you get the opportunity to improve your own grammar. The course is well organised and set out in a structured yet flexible manner. You have the opportunity to observe various teachers apply the skills you have been taught and in the last week. You step to the front of the class and teach your students for a whole week.
One of the module of the course is dedicated to helping you apply for a teaching job. The trainer's experience in the field makes her the best person to advise you on various job opportunities around the world. My trainer, Audra, helped me apply for a job and as a result I had secured a teaching position before even having completed the TEFL course!

Staff:
The are no words to describe the Manuel Antonio staff. Karen and Brandon at the reception welcome you with a warm smile and are always willing to help you out. The lovely Rosita at the snack bar makes the best coffee (which is free) and she will help you improve your Spanish. And finally the one and only Audra:
Audra the TEFL trainer is probably the BEST teacher I have ever had. She brings fun, humour, and an incredible amount of energy to each and every class. She makes learning English incredibly interesting and amusing. Audra is very knowledgeable and she has the ability to make you understand difficult grammar points, and help you improve your teaching style.

This was the perfect program for me: a fresh-out-of-college person going through the classic quarter-life crisis, in pursuit of meaning in life. I would recommend this program to anyone. I have no regrets!