Why did you decide to get TEFL Certified with ITTT TEFL in Egypt?
Mark: Coming from Australia, I've always had a great fascination with Egypt's history and culture, while also desiring to be TEFL qualified. So I figured, why not combine the two? I did a lot of research and despite the many options, I decided to go with TEFL. The institution is globally recognized, and the reviews I’ve read were completely positive which was comforting for someone who wasn’t sure if they were going to make the right decision. Having made an informed decision at the time and now looking back, I am happy with my choice to do the Course and particularly so in Egypt.
Did you teach abroad? How did this TEFL Course impact your experience?
Mark: I got a job as soon as I graduated from the program actually. Despite the initial hesitation around "can I really do this?", I slipped into it and surprisingly had an awesome time alongside seeing the improvement in the English of my students. I couldn't have done it at all without the training I received from the TEFL Course itself. The Course not only teaches you the content, but it aids you with the tools you need to effectively manage and deliver learning without having to speak a word of the local language. Beyond the teaching job I received immediately after the course, I also received other opportunities and was flat out tutoring school students on the side. The cash definitely helped!
What is one piece of advice you would offer someone considering this TEFL Course and teaching abroad?
Mark: Prepare yourself that you may never want to return back to wherever you're from. I think of this whole experience as a relationship - you will fall in love with it. The journey from being a student in the TEFL Course to then actually being a teacher to countless students was a self-fulfilling dream of mine. I’m actually pretty proud of myself for giving it a go, which has consequently turned into a passion. There was really no question about it, as you just know in your heart if this is for you.
What was the highlight of your experience?
Mark: No doubt, the highlight of my experience was meeting people who I now not only class as friends but as my family. It's been almost 4 years since I did the TEFL Course and I haven't for a moment let go of the people who changed my life forever. There are those moments in the classroom that can never be forgotten. To witness the change in someone is extraordinary and I think what is more amazing is that it’s not just about English. Teaching overseas becomes an opportunity to instill tolerance and appreciation in everyone that crosses your path. The likelihood is that the students have never personally encountered a foreigner before. However on the flip side, Egyptians are probably the warmest people you may ever truly come across.
Anything else you would like to share?
Mark: The TEFL staff in Egypt were incredibly helpful and the country is as safe as anywhere - I no longer trust the media. Even after leaving Egypt for a while, upon my return it felt as though I never left. I had opportunities to work across the major cities of Cairo and Alexandria, but my love for Alexandria and the Mediterranean Sea locked in where I knew I wanted to be for both professional and personal reasons. If anyone would like to ask me any questions, Australians are renowned for being pretty blunt so I’m happy to assist there! I simply wish you well on your journey, which will take you places you never thought existed namely within you. Happy teaching!