Meaningful Work & Travel Teaching Job, Training & Cultural Orientation

Why did you choose this program?

I chose Kids English Thailand because it's a reputable agency with an excellent track record. They have professional staff who are always willing to assist with any concerns or questions you may have. Although they have many foreign teachers, they make each one of us a priority.

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

KET provided me with pre-departure orientation which was extremely helpful. They assisted me with the entire recruitment process, from getting me a job to processing all the paperwork required in obtaining my Non-B visa, teacher license and work permit. The only thing I had to do was to make sure that I had all the necessary documents.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

I would say it's very important to keep an open mind. Remember that you are visiting a totally different country from your own. Embrace and respect the new culture of the country you visiting. Do lots of research before you leave. Be receptive and open to change. Basically just go with the flow.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

A typical week would involve walking to and from school. The school is not far and I quite enjoy the walk as I encounter lots of interesting and diverse things. I teach in a primary school with classes ranging from twenty-one to thirty-three students.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

My biggest fear was coming to a new country and being alone. I thought I would be the only foreign teacher in my school and I would be uncomfortable. Well, that fear was quickly overcome as I have met several other foreign teachers at my school who have become my new friends.

My favorite travel was when my family took me to Myanmar. We got to visit some ancient sites, temples, and cultural sites. We also got to go up in the air in a hot air balloon at sunrise and to this day it is one of the most memorable moments of my life. I have many pictures from that trip that I treasure and have displayed around my house.

Working for kids English Thailand really allowed me to use my degree in communications in a real-world situation. I am more confident; my English ability has increased, and it is statistically proven via English Proficiency exams that I have taken after the fact. Using English everyday instead of my native tongue Thai has accelerated my growth, which is something I am eternally grateful for and have admiration for Kids-English Thailand for creating an environment that is conducive to personal development.