When I was young and hungry for adventure, I wish I would have seriously considered teaching English abroad.
What an amazing experience it must be!
Getting paid to immerse yourself in a completely different place, life, and culture?
Here is what 12 young people had to say about why they went, and how teaching English can be as life-changing as it is scary.
1. I don’t want to grow up
Like Peter Pan and the Lost Boys. It’s a great way to put off the real world just a little while longer.
2. Who am I, anyway?
There’s nothing quite like an adventure on your own. It can really show you the truth of who you are.
3. Getting there can be hard part
After the hurdle of deciding to go, then you gotta get there.
4. It can be scary, no matter who you are
No matter what you’ve seen and done before.
5. It can be scary, no matter how prepared you are
There’s nothing quite so frightening as the unknown.
6. But if you crave excitement?
What an amazing opportunity!
7. It could be a new experience on both sides
But experiencing different cultures is how we learn and grow and become more accepting.
8. It might not be perfect every minute
But learning how to deal with annoying people is part of the experience.
9. There might be some funny moments
Oops. Just roll with is.
10. You might end up teaching more than just the language
It’s good to show both sides of things I guess.
11. It might be lonely at times
But the friendships will be so worth it.
12. It can be hard to come back home
But if you found your calling, there’s no reason not to stay.
All this talk about traveling and new experiences–these certainly gave me the urge to get out there and try something different.
What about you? Did you ever think about teaching English abroad? Share your story in the comments.