Chicago TEFL class, 2014

I decided to do the in-person TEFL/TESOL certification course with International TEFL Academy back in May. I had just finished my Master's degree and realized that I want to travel and see the world, that my degree in music and philosophy made that more than possible, and that I wanted to do the best that I could do when I was abroad teaching.

After weeks of research I e-mailed my TEFL advisor, Ian Davis, and began the process of applying to the program.

The timing couldn't have been better, I have never been more prepared mentally for a course of this nature: it was intense. To keep on track of everything I had to be extremely well organized and committed to the course! I had to keep reminding myself that if I really nailed this course, got the knowledge they were throwing at me planted into my skull, I could leave the country to teach somewhere and simultaneously enjoy the culture! Sure, you can get an easier TEFL certification elsewhere. And sure, you don't need to have any certification in some countries. But, by going through ITA's in person course I have gained the skills to teach, the comfort in front of a classroom, and the resources to feel prepared to teach abroad. This preparation means that, when I'm running around in Asia, South America, Europe, or wherever it is that I wind up, I will be able to go out and see the culture! I'll be able to meet up with new friends on weeknights and weekends, because I now have the skills to create effective lesson plans. I now have the skills to lead a classroom. I can now manage my time well enough to plan ahead for the week and be comfortable knowing that things will go well.

Obviously things won't be easy when I go abroad. But this in-depth, difficult, and enlightening course has definitely put me in a better place professionally and personally for when I go abroad!