An Outstanding Cultural Experience

I participated in this program from February - May, 2025 as both a way to obtain teaching experience before deciding to pursue a TEFL certification, as well as explore Italy as much as I could over 3 months... and I certainly got what I was looking for, and some.

First off, I have to mention that two things will make or break this program for you: 1- being the host family, and 2- being your school placement. I was very fortunate to have an absolutely wonderful and welcoming host family that not only wanted to learn from me and spend time with me, but also allowed me to learn many things from them as well. By far, they were my favorite aspect of the entire experience.

As for the school experience, that was also great. I was placed at two different schools that were a 5-minute walk between one another and switched between them every few days. The students and fellow teachers were amazing, and I felt very included for the most part.

To avoid sugar-coating this entire review, I would like to advise people who do this program to bring more money than what is recommended on the Greenheart website. I had some "emergency" personal expenses that I did not take into consideration and found myself spending roughly $300 over what I had initially budgeted for this program. You simply never know what could happen while you're away from home for three months.

Another thing I would like to point out is that you must reeaallllyyy vocalize your experience level to the teachers once you enter your placement school(s). I often found myself getting criticized for "not coming prepared" with entire lessons or presentations in some of my classes, mainly during the first couple of weeks. I was somewhat treated like a professional English teacher with years of teaching experience or study under his belt, only to be met with disappointment from a couple of teachers when I requested to observe their first few lessons. Of course, this situation worked itself out over time as I became comfortable taking lead roles within the classrooms and the teachers figured out ways to best use me for the benefit of their students.

Despite this, I would be lying to myself and whoever reads this review if I didn't rate this experience a 5/5. Between the host family, the amazing students, the abundance of travel opportunities throughout Italy, and the AMAZING food, wine, and espresso, I had myself a marvelous experience that I will remember for the rest of my life. My host family and some of the friends I've met here are already talking about our next visits!

In my opinion, the 'Teach English for 3 months in Italy' is best suited for aspiring teachers, those thinking about getting a TEFL certification in the future, and those looking to boost their resume, especially those looking for international work/volunteer experience. However, anybody can do this program as long as you have an adventurous spirit and are transparent with your expectations!

I will gladly be staying connected with Greenheart International as I move to Thailand to do their TEFL course and teaching placement there :)