Day in the Life of a TEFL Teacher: Stories from Around the World

Hey everyone! My name is Christine Parkinson, and I’m from Erie, Pennsylvania, USA.

Growing up in Erie, I experienced my fair share of cold, snowy winters and rainy days. As much as I loved my hometown, the weather wasn’t always the best, and I found myself dreaming of warmer, sunnier places. That’s one of the reasons I decided to leave and explore the world.

Today, I want to share my amazing journey as a TEFL teacher with you. It’s been a wild ride since I decided to teach English, and I’ve had the chance to live in some incredible places. Here’s my story from Barcelona to Thailand and now Colombia.

Taking the Leap: TEFL Certification in Barcelona

It all started when I signed up for a 160-hour Trinity CertTESOL Course with TEFL Barcelona in Spain. Taking the course was a big step, but I knew I wanted to travel and make a difference. The TEFL course was tough but super rewarding. The trainers were awesome, and I met so many cool people who were also passionate about teaching and adventure.

We learned about teaching methods, classroom management, and English grammar. We also got to teach real students, which was so helpful. Barcelona was an amazing place to study. When we weren’t in class, we explored the city, enjoyed delicious tapas, and soaked up the culture and history.

Barcelona itself was a fantastic backdrop for this learning journey. The city’s vibrant energy and beautiful architecture made every day exciting. On weekends, my classmates and I would visit famous sites like La Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and the bustling La Rambla street.

The food was incredible, and I quickly fell in love with Spanish cuisine. Studying in such an enriching environment made the whole experience even more enjoyable.

Thailand: The Land of Smiles

After getting my TEFL certification, I was ready for my first teaching job. I chose Thailand because it’s known as the “Land of Smiles” and it’s absolutely beautiful. I got a job at a small language school in Chiang Mai, a charming city in northern Thailand.

Chiang Mai quickly felt like home. The people were incredibly welcoming, and my students were eager to learn. Teaching English to locals was such a joy. They were enthusiastic and grateful for the opportunity to improve their language skills. Every day, I felt like I was making a real difference in their lives.

The school where I taught was small but had a great community vibe. We had small classes, which allowed me to get to know my students really well. Many of them were young professionals or university students who wanted to travel or work abroad.

On weekends, I went on adventures. Chiang Mai is surrounded by beautiful mountains, forests, and temples. I spent my weekends hiking, visiting elephant sanctuaries, and exploring local markets. I made friends with both locals and other expats.

One of the highlights was the Loi Krathong festival, where we floated lanterns on rivers and released sky lanterns into the night sky. It was a magical experience. The festival’s serene beauty and the sense of community it fostered were truly unforgettable.

Embracing New Challenges: Colombia

After a year in Thailand, I wanted to explore a new part of the world. I moved to Colombia, a country with rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm-hearted people. I found a teaching job in Medellín, a city that has transformed in recent years.

Medellín, known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” captivated me immediately. The energy and friendliness of the people were infectious. I started teaching at another small language school, and once again, I was surrounded by eager and motivated students.

Teaching in Colombia brought new challenges and rewards. The students were diverse, from young kids to adults looking to improve their job prospects. They were so dedicated, juggling work and family while attending English classes in the evenings.

In Colombia, there was a big focus on conversational English. The students loved practicing speaking and listening skills, and I used a lot of interactive activities and discussions in my lessons. It was awesome to see their confidence grow as they became more comfortable using English.

Medellín’s stunning landscapes provided the perfect backdrop for weekend adventures. I explored coffee plantations, visited the colorful town of Guatapé, and hiked to the top of El Peñol for breathtaking views. The city’s public transportation system, including the famous cable cars, made it easy to get around and explore different neighborhoods.

One of the best experiences in Colombia was joining a local dance class. Colombian music and dance are a huge part of the culture, and I wanted to dive right in. Learning to dance salsa and cumbia was a blast and helped me connect with the locals.

Reflections and Looking Forward

As I look back on my journey from Erie, Pennsylvania, to Barcelona, Thailand, and now Colombia, I’m filled with gratitude for all the experiences and opportunities teaching English has given me. It’s not just about traveling; it’s about making meaningful connections with people from all over the world.

Every country has left a mark on me. From the lively streets of Barcelona to the serene temples of Thailand and the vibrant culture of Colombia, I’ve grown so much personally and professionally. I’ve learned to adapt, embrace different teaching styles, and appreciate cultural diversity.

For anyone thinking about a career in TEFL, I say go for it! It’s a journey full of adventure, growth, and the joy of making a difference. The world is a big, beautiful place, and there’s no better way to explore it than by teaching English.

As I continue my teaching journey, I’m excited about the new challenges and opportunities ahead. Each day brings a new lesson, a new adventure, and a chance to inspire and be inspired. Thanks for reading my story, and I hope it inspires you to start your own TEFL adventure.

Happy teaching and safe travels!

Christine Parkinson