Why did you choose this program?

The program was online, which worked well with my schedule. Moreover, I was able to talk through all my questions, thoughts, and concerns with my Admissions Advisor. She was absolutely wonderful and gave me knowledge and resources even before I enrolled. I felt very supported before I even started the program.

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

Honestly, even though it was all virtual, I never felt alone. If I ever needed anything, someone friendly and helpful (my admissions advisor, teacher, or student affairs advisor) would guide me along the way. You're encouraged to find your own practicum hours, but ITA has an extensive resource/partner list you can use to find an organization to work with. It was actually hard to choose, lots of interesting opportunities to choose from. I found an organization to get my practicum hours within 3 days.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

Be ready to learn and be ready to work! The program really makes sure you're prepared. It's very comprehensive. They dig deep into what and how to teach, but also into cultural sensitivity and culture shock and/or homesickness. I took more time than 10 hours per week (the estimated time for the 11-week course), but I feel it was completely worth it. I left the program feeling really confident and inspired. Oh, and take notes!

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

I set aside a couple of hours each weekday to dedicate to my online course. Since it's virtual, you can set up whatever schedule works for you. Grab a cup of coffee, log in, and read, take notes, or attend a virtual seminar (some live and some pre-recorded). There are also some peer-to-peer prompts that create great conversations between you and your classmates if you choose to do that.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

Navigating a new country can be overwhelming, especially if you don't know the language. I found that most people are genuinely kind and helpful. I also found that what we think we know about a country and what it's really like are very different, often it's better than what we could've hoped for or expected.

What is the one thing you would tell someone that is thinking about traveling (or doing anything in life) but is scared to do it?

Trust yourself. If you thought of it, you're called to do it. No one ever regrets taking that trip (or that leap in life), they only regret NOT doing it. You just have to get out there and see for yourself!

What is your favorite travel memory?

This is such a difficult question for me to answer because I've had so many amazing experiences in various countries with many people around the globe. However, one of my favorite recent memories is hiking the Quilotoa Loop in Ecuador.

The hike usually takes around three days and you show up at a hostel each night. The directions for the Loop that my husband and I received were minimal at best (walk 500 feet and turn right at the big rock for example). Despite the directions, we arrived at the Quilotoa Volcano - one of the most amazing things I've ever seen!

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

I couldn't even list all of the ways I've grown in this small text box by working here. I started here at age 24 and now am almost 30 so you can imagine how much I've learned and changed!

I would say however, that I have become more independent, innovative, creative and efficient. International TEFL Academy provides an environment for all of its staff members to be involved in decisions, give ideas, and speak their mind.

The management team here is amazing which provides us with great support in which to grow professionally.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

I had a student 2 or 3 years ago that couldn't decide whether to take a great job with another travel company here in the USA or to go follow her dreams and teach in Taiwan.

We talked through why (in my opinion) she should follow her dreams of travel because that job in the USA will always be there someday. She ended up deciding to go to Taiwan for a year and loving it!

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

I couldn't even count the number of times people say to me "you work for the best company!" And it is because ITA is so unique.

I work for a company that TRULY cares about its employees, students, and its mission; teaching English abroad.

We are completely transparent and share all of our knowledge with our TEFL students. Also, as I mentioned above, everyone here is given a huge opportunity to be innovative, creative and a leader.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

To care and fully believe in your product and hire people who have the same vision.