Village Life & Virtual Classrooms: Work-Life Balance Abroad

Like most young adults, I dreamed of seeing the world. My hometown in England was grey and melancholic, and although I had just graduated, I wasn’t inspired by any particular career path. I studied English language because I enjoyed it, but truthfully, I had no idea what jobs I could pursue or where they could take me.

I wanted to plunge into foreign situations, explore unfamiliar territories, and be captivated by different cultures and histories. As I planned my travels, packed my bags, and arrived - nervous but thrilled - at the airport, I had no idea that traveling in other countries would bring my native language alive for me.

Immersed in the Chaos and Charm of Thailand

My journey began in Thailand, and navigating the erratic streets of Bangkok was both challenging and stimulating. Every time I left my hostel, my senses were assaulted: the heat was palpable, the air carried a cocktail of unidentifiable foods and tepid garbage, and my ears rang with Tuk-Tuk drivers and market vendors hollering for my business.

I gradually settled into life in Southeast Asia, but communication remained intimidating. Many people spoke some English, but deciphering it was a skill in itself. Misunderstandings were just part of the adventure, and I quickly learned that patience and a smile could win friends anywhere.

Over time, I picked up invaluable skills - speaking much slower than I thought necessary, emphasizing key words to guide listeners, and practicing patience when trying to figure out what someone meant. I was utterly charmed as I grew familiar with my friends’ vocabularies, adapting my speech to maximize their understanding.

A “Back-Up Plan” That Became My Future

After traveling through several countries, I eventually returned to Thailand, where I have now lived for almost six years. Before my journey, I had completed a TEFL course in England, considering it nothing more than a “back-up plan.” Little did I realize that teaching would become the key to building a life in my dream country.

I started teaching online in 2019, initially working with children through various platforms. However, I quickly became disillusioned with companies that prioritized KPIs over quality education. I could grin and bear it, but my passion lay in open conversation and lifting the mighty language barrier to share experiences with people from faraway lands.

Luckily, I found my way to Education First Teach Online. Though it took just over a month from my application to being onboarded, the process was smooth once EF had space for new teachers. I spoke with real people who were friendly and welcoming - I knew I was moving in the right direction.

A Career That Flows with My Life

EF’s slogan is “Opening the world through education.” I had assumed this only applied to students, but upon reflecting on my journey, I realize that working in education has given me the freedom and flexibility to live a life I could have only dreamed of.

My schedule molds around my life in rural Thailand. I visit the morning market for breakfast before my first class, and breaks between lessons are for iced coffees with friends, heat-beating dips in the local river, and listening to my neighbors jamming on their guitars.

Best of all, traveling remains accessible. As an online teacher, I can pack my work into my laptop bag and set up my office wherever my heart takes me. Teaching is a career full of meaning and moments of pride. It flows with my life, helping me build the lifestyle that makes me happiest.

Learn more about EF Teach Online here.