This is my second year as a Language Assistant, and at first none of my placements were what I expected. However, if I could change them now, I definitely won’t do it. I have made friends for life both through the program and teachers at my school, and also broadened my horizons so much which comes naturally with living in a foreign country. I would also say teaching is incredibly rewarding and I have found that it is something I would potentially want to continue in the future. Overall, I have had a really positive experience and I would strongly recommend it to anyone considering doing it.

Being a language assistant has been invaluable to my professional and personal growth over the last year. Like many of us, I was a bit lost leaving my university, unsure of what I wanted to do next but certain I wanted an experience that would help me gain self-understanding, professional development, and a greater sense of clarity about my future. I have experienced cultures and people that I never thought I would imagine while simultaneously furthering my education, teaching skills, and professional skills. It has truly changed my life for the better.

The programme has given me so many opportunities and introduced me to a way of life I never knew before. Everyday is filled with happiness, being able to develop my teaching skills thanks to the hands-on experience with the kids and the application of what I have learnt from the TEFL-related course. Additionally, living with a host family has allowed me to become integrated into my community, and to feel almost like a local. Not only has my Spanish improved to a much more comfortable level, but experiencing the richness of Spanish culture and getting to see what this country has to offer has really changed my outlook on my life.

You can have a great experience with this program if you are placed in a good school; however Meddeas does nothing to ensure that your experience is positive and if any conflicts come up they will always take the side of the school. There is also no guarantee that you'll make a living wage as they pay per contract hour, not per hour spent at school. Your contract might be for 20 hours but with breaks and lunch you spend 35 real hours a week at school. With the teaching program through the Spanish government, you work fewer hours and are paid more overall. Avoid this program if you're still able to apply for other teaching programs in Spain.

I am currently in my second year with Meddeas. From the beginning of the application period, to moving to Spain, to questions throughout the two academic courses, the Meddeas team has been more than helpful. They assisted with any need or doubt that I had while aiding me through the paperwork. Meddeas has been a great opportunity for me to put my love of teaching to use in a culturally different environment. I have loved my time with Meddeas while teaching and learning from my Spanish students. The Spanish culture has also brought me great joy. I have loved learning from my UIC course, my tutor, and other Meddeas assistants the benefits and joys that they have experienced in their city. The Meddeas Experience allows you the opportunity to learn and grow in an unknown environment while gaining the knowledge to continue to self-develop and grow into a different version of you. Meddeas gave me a great opportunity to teach and I am thankful for it.