What is your favorite travel memory?
I have a lot but one that stands out is a trip to Zakynthos, Greece. I went with one other friend and stayed in a hotel where we were the only Irish people! We spent a lot of time exploring the area and learning so much about Greece and its history. One notable experience was when we on a boat trip and spotted the endangered loggerhead sea turtle.
I loved trying local Greek cuisine and partaking in Greek culture. There was also an Indian restaurant near our hotel with the best chicken korma I have ever eaten!
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
I learn something new every day. I know that's an overused phrase, but it's true. What's really great is that I found parts of Marketing that I really enjoy, that I didn't even know existed in the first place.
From when I started to where I am now, I see a lot of change in how I communicate with partners and affiliates. I'm a lot more confident and knowledgeable and I look forward to speaking with people about how we can help each other grow!
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
One of my favorites definitely has to be of a Welsh native who, fresh out of university, decided a TEFL internship in Vietnam was the next best thing for him. He studied 'English Language and Literature' and wanted a change from his local scenery. He was so nervous but he wanted something completely different, and that's exactly what he got.
He shared how amazing the culture was, his students that even gave him gifts, and the friends he made. He is even planning on teaching in South Korea next with the friends he made in Vietnam.
He combines his love for TEFL and writing by sharing his thoughts on our blog too, helping other TEFL teachers on their journey.
If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?
I would choose the program in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Mexico is pretty high on my list too so while I'm over on that side of the world I would squeeze in a trip to Mexico, along with Brazil and Chile! The food, the music, the culture, it would be amazing!
I'm learning Spanish too so it would give me the motivation to continue learning.
What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?
I absolutely love that everyone is willing to help everybody. There are days that are busier than others, but each person always has the time to help someone if they're stuck on something, offering a cuppa and a listening ear.
I'm especially proud of our willingness to try new things, even if it's making ourselves look silly for a social media video!
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
I think always being curious, asking questions, and being open to trying new things whether it's how something works, why it works that way, or even exploring new places on our days off. All that feeds into the great energy that Premier TEFL embodies.
At Premier TEFL we're all of those, and anybody who has had a call with us knows we love to talk and hear all the stories from our teachers!