Teaching English abroad is an experience like no other. It is a truly unique opportunity to travel, gain professional and personal experiences, and immerse yourself in a culture different from your own. Two Oxford Seminars grads, Chasity and Lillian, did all these things while teaching ESL overseas, and made lifelong friendships and memories along the way. Read their reviews and see their photos from teaching English in Thailand and South Korea.
Chasity taught English in Thailand
“Teaching has been something I’ve wanted to do since I was in my senior year of high school, but I also wanted to travel the world while I was still young. When I came across Oxford Seminars I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but choosing to teach English overseas with Oxford seminars has been one of the best choices I ever decided to do. It doesn’t require perfect grade averages, just people who want the same as you; to work and travel at the same time.
Not only has Oxford Seminars been amazing in finding me great placements in the countries I chose, they make it so easy and simple. They always reply back as soon as possible, answer all questions and guide you through the process of what needs to be done. I always recommend Oxford to anyone who shows interest in teaching abroad. The in-class sessions were great and the online test was easy to get through.”
“Moving to another country is never easy, especially alone. Because of Oxford Seminars my first experience teaching English in Thailand was a great success. The weather, the people, the scenery and especially my Thai students and Thai teachers were absolutely amazing. It is the perfect place to go if you are new at teaching abroad. It’s a laid back lifestyle and a great culture to experience that you cannot find anywhere else. To go back to Thailand in the future is a must for me, for it is not a one time place to see. It is and will give you an experience that you will remember for the rest of your life.”
“Due to my first experience going so well with Oxford, I have chosen to go on a second placement to Spain. I have no doubts that this will be another amazing trip and that Oxford Seminars and Spain’s partnership is an excellent one. And I very much look forward to it.”
Lillian taught English in South Korea
“I decided to teach abroad, as a way to travel, live in another country and do something that would be difficult to achieve once older, and having more responsibilities like a career and family. Oxford Seminars is a great place to learn, meet experienced teachers and new friends that will support you and your adventures. I have traveled and lived abroad in Australia and Hong Kong but a one-year contract in South Korea was scary. I honestly knew nothing about Korea except for Gangnam Style, kimchi, bibimbap and North Korea.”
“Upon arrival to Korea, I definitely panicked on the shuttle bus, seeing only Hangul and maybe one or two English words on signs and buildings. Thankfully the EPIK program, which the advisors helped me apply to, provided an orientation that helped enormously, teaching us what to expect in a classroom, Korean culture and most importantly the language. My experience, 4 months in, has been eye opening and I’m grateful for this position, despite frustrations, miscommunications and the hike up to work every morning. It’s surreal to sit at your desk and see mountains out your window, to try different foods and to have kids get overly excited to greet you in the hallways…”
“…You will bond quickly with many foreigners in similar situations as you and you will create amazing memories. Also balancing it out by befriending Koreans, they will help you understand the lifestyle, culture and as a bonus, help with translation for doctor’s visits and ordering food. To finish on a positive note, you will look back at this experience and laugh at all the hardship and wonderful moments. You will miss all the curiosity and attention for being different. You will leave Korea, making friends from around the world and doing something very special.”
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