The art of teaching
Teaching English as a Second Language
In the last several years, TEFL has grown in enormous popularity among many people around the world. Today, millions of adventure seekers in numerous countries are packing their bags and leaving their homes to teach English.
With billions of English language learners across the globe, it makes sense that more individuals are finding inspiration to join the cause. Of course, for plenty of skeptics out there, it might seem odd that someone would sell their car or spend their savings to live as an expat in an unfamiliar place.
It’s a fair question—why leave behind everything familiar to immerse yourself in a completely different culture? Yet, no matter how unusual it may seem, lots of people are traveling to unique and wonderful destinations to get their TEFL certificates every single year.
Clearly, there’s something compelling about the “teaching and traveling” lifestyle. Here are six reasons why you should teach English abroad.
1. Travel the World
Perhaps the number one reason why most people teach English abroad is the ease of traveling whenever they want. With class schedules and work time coordinated at your own desire, you can decide wherever and whenever you want to discover a new city and country.
Get to know the locals by adapting to their lifestyles or attending popular festivals and events. Enjoy the nuanced form of traveling not as a tourist but as an expat hoping to understand the world a little better.
2. Pay off Student Loans
For those hoping to pay off a substantial amount of student loan debt, getting TEFL certified is an excellent option to chip away at it and save at the same time. At this point, it is no secret that a large number of teachers have chosen specific regions like South Korea or China for this exact reason.
With very low living costs next to a generous monthly salary, teaching English in these regions is a helpful factor when considering working abroad and in the most practical sense. Take advantage of the chance to add more to your savings while getting to cross more things off your bucket list, one place at a time.
3. Gain International Work Experience
Living and working in a foreign country builds skills that go far beyond the classroom. Learning to adapt to new customs and overcoming language barriers challenges you to grow in ways you never expected.
It’s also a strong asset for your résumé. International experience shows resilience, adaptability, and cultural awareness—valuable traits in any field, especially in today’s globalized workforce.
4. Have a Job for Life
Should you decide to try TEFL once or multiple times, this opportunity is one that you can use at any point in your life. With a certification to teach English to foreign students, you are given the ability to use it whenever you want and whichever country you choose.
This is a job for life that, unlike certain occupations, still cannot be replaced by technology. Regardless of how many learning apps have become available in recent years, getting certified even allows you to work online and teach from the comfort of your home.
5. Enjoy a Lifestyle of Freedom
With all of the various school programs and teaching options for both public and private students, designing your weekly work schedule as a teacher has never been easier. Because when you receive qualified teaching credentials from an accredited program, the TEFL industry opens up a world of possibilities for you.
As soon as you graduate, you can choose to reside anywhere across the globe. With complete autonomy over your occupation and the freedom to create your own structure, living out the kind of lifestyle that brings you the greatest fulfillment is more than possible.
6. Find Rewarding and Creative Work
Many of us were shaped by impactful teachers growing up. Teaching English gives you the opportunity to play that role for someone else while using your creativity every day.
By helping others express themselves clearly, you empower them to pursue better opportunities with confidence. When you directly witness the transformation of another through their own sheer work and effort, you cannot help but feel satisfaction and accomplishment from meaningful service.
Joining the Right TEFL Program
Whether you want to learn a new language, build global friendships, or see iconic landmarks, teaching English abroad offers a transformative experience. If you can live overseas, travel, learn, and enjoy it all at once—why not give it a try?
There are many reputable sources to help you find the right TEFL program for your goals. Below are some recommendations to explore.
The TEFL Academy Europe – If you see yourself living in a country in the EU region, this is a great resource for starting your research. With plenty of course locations, teaching opportunities, internships, and volunteer work available, enjoy the information you need to get where you want to be.
Premier TEFL – For employment opportunities abroad in multiple countries, this is a great site to check out for positions in various locations like Thailand, Cambodia, or Poland. With over 54,000 graduates, they hold a highly acclaimed network and teaching curriculum on a global level.
TEFL Course – TEFL Course features a range of course specifications designed for your needs. From standard certification courses for teaching abroad to advanced diploma courses for senior positions, this is a helpful navigator for any preferences you might have.
TEFL Training College – TEFL Training College is internationally recognized for accredited TEFL courses online. With over 15 years of experience, they offer in-depth advice and assistance for making your dreams of teaching English abroad come true.
World TEFL Institute – For those interested in TEFL courses that offer legalization and document services, this is a great resource to look into. With plenty of opportunities in Asia, Europe, South America, and more, this website provides all you need to prepare for a big move overseas.
