United States
US
Natalie Brown
Teach Enrich Empower
A Human Resources Manager Ready to Grab Life
I sought a reputable TEFL course provider while I travelled the world.
Why a TEFL course?
Flexibility was key, as one day I would be studying in a campervan in the Australian Outback and the next I would be completing coursework on a train to New York City. The TEFL Academy offered support whenever I required it, along with a reasonable length of time to complete the course within my busy travel schedule.
Where am I teaching right now?
Currently, I am teaching adults for a corporate contract in Bangkok. Every day, I travel from my apartment in the heart of Bangkok, to the famous Bobe Market where my classes are held. My students are amazing, and it is a joy to spend my days with them.
“The TEFL Academy offered support whenever I required it.”
How has TEFL helped me?
Gaining my TEFL certificate was instrumental to me having gained work in Thailand. It is the first thing that prospective employers asked for. I was fortunate enough to gain a Distinction grade and employers do appreciate this level because it helps to differentiate me from other TEFL holders.
A funny classroom situation
My students make me laugh every day, they are open, friendly, respectful and motivated. To have a good relationship with your students, I have found that it is better to be good-humoured. You can’t be perfect all the time, and your students will pick you up on it eventually! I do recall one lunchtime, I walked into my classroom to a Thai rendition of ‘My Heart Will Go On’ by Celine Dion. In perfect harmony, the men and the women were belting out this song using bananas for microphones!
Living in Thailand
Every day I feel blessed to live in this country. While the language is one of the more challenging to master, the people here will do all they can to help you. The cost of living is minimal, and the city is full of amazing food and places to visit. Every weekend we are spoilt for choice and visit new places all the time. While this country is still poorer than others in Asia you can still feel at home with its modern transportation system, skyscraper apartment buildings and world-class shopping centres. Bangkok sometimes gets a bad rap, but behind it’s gritty exterior, it’s a beautiful country and will constantly challenge you to experience new things.
My future plans
I plan to live in Bangkok for a year, or maybe more. I still have plenty of time to go on trips to other parts of Asia in between teaching contracts. I plan to move somewhere else in Asia next… perhaps Japan!
Useful advice
I left my life behind in 2016 and have never looked back. I’ve experienced some incredible things along the way, but budget has always been at the forefront of my mind. Set aside time to do your TEFL, even if you don’t want to make a career out of teaching. It’s a great way to earn money while you immerse yourself in a totally new culture. My students teach me new things about Thai culture every day, things that I’ll never find in a travel book. Life passes us by so fast, grab it.
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Accreditation Partners
The TEFL Academy was the world’s first TEFL course provider to receive official recognition from government regulated awarding bodies in both the USA and UK. This means when you graduate you’ll hold a globally recognised Level 3 (120hr) Certificate or Level 5 (168hr) Diploma, meaning you can find work anywhere and apply for jobs immediately.
