Are you seeking an opportunity to travel abroad for an extended period of time? Would you like to have the once-in-a-lifetime experience of being a part of another culture as if it were your own? Teaching English abroad is popular choice for those looking to enhance their travel experience, immerse themselves in the local culture and engage in travel with a purpose. "Teaching English as a Foreign Language" (TEFL) or "English as a Second Language" (ESL)are two common terms that are essentially the same thing. They are both certifications that while not always required, will certainly make you a more desireable candidate especially when choosing a work abroad versus a volunteer abroad program. It also prepares you for the job that you'll ultimately be doing. Most of these certificaton courses are easily affordable, can be taken online, and can even assist with placement.
Volunteer Organizations such as WorldTeach offer placements in a variety of countries including Bangladesh, Guyana, Ecuador, and South Africa. WorldTeach has no age limit (other than for China placements, for which you must be under 65), and encourages retirees and professionals to volunteer. Be aware that there is a program fee associated with your placement. This fee covers the costs of preparing, training, and supporting a teacher in a developing country. It also covers your international airfare and overseas medical coverage, as well as your housing and stipend for food and living expenses. These fees range from just a few hundred to several thousand dollars. However, when you think about it, this is what you are paying to LIVE abroad - typically for a year! It is an incredible bargain and a way to really make a difference in your host community.
Teaching English abroad in a paid, work-abroad program is another way to experience a long term stay in another country. Typically, these programs will pay you a salary comparable to what a teacher in that country would be paid along with some assistance with housing and living expenses. Transitions Abroad is is an extremely useful guide to help you sort out the seemingly endless supply of articles and information regarding living and working abroad. Research your options carefully.
Here are some helpful tips:
Go with a purpose in mind - Those who have goals and set expectations have the best chance of a successful teaching experience.
Learn to expect the unexpected - Realize that you will be living and working in a different culture. There will be unexpected things that come your way. Accept and embrace the differences.
Study the language and culture of the host country. Make an earnest attempt to learn something about the culture of your host country and even the local community. Learning the language is a key step to adjustment, so you are able to become an active participant in everyday life.
Contribute to the local culture through volunteer, social, and educational activities: There is o much could be said about being involved in the lives of the people beyond the day-to-day teaching responsibilities. the first year of your program. Here is a brief list of possibilities, with references for each:
Read up on the profession. Make sure you know the qualifications for specific jobs and understand what kinds of opportunities are available.
Take the leap, step out of your comfort zone, and help others with meaningful travel!
SmartSeniorTravel.com is the complete resource for the Over-50 Traveler. For more information on Traveling Abroad, up-to-the-minute travel information and great travel DEALS, sign up for our FREE newsletter at http://www.SmartSeniorTravel.com |
No comments:
Post a Comment