By Angie Burdge 

DO get certified either online or with a program. You’ll land a better job at a more trustworthy institution, and you’ll feel more prepared as well. 

DON’T expect your students to arrive on time, at least in South America. This culture has a much more relaxed view of time and you might have to wait for your students to arrive on more than one occasion. 

DO decide beforehand what kind of teaching experience you’re after. Are you more comfortable teaching children, teenagers or adults? Do you want to make and save money or is the cultural experience more important? Answering these questions will help you to better decide on a destination that fits what you are looking for. 

DON’T spend your whole time speaking English or with other English teachers. Get involved with the culture; meet people from the place you are teaching in. It’s the best way to understand the country, and in turn, your students more. Taking language classes is always great too! 

DO have a backup savings account or plan for emergencies. And you’ll need some money for travel in your free time as well! 

DON’T rely on a consistent schedule. In South America it’s common for students to cancel or go on vacation during the summer, so some months might be slower than others. It’s good to have some savings as a back up. 

DO get to know your students. Classes will be more engaging and beneficial for them if you know about their work and other interests and gear classes around information outside of what’s in the book. 

DON’T become friends with your students (at least until the class is finished). It’s important to keep a professional relationship. When teaching adults it can be strange to know you’re younger than your students, but remember you are the teacher and in charge. 

DO have fun! Remember teaching English abroad isn’t just a job; it’s an experience, so make the most out of it! While teaching is your immediate goal, don’t get caught up and forget about the others, like traveling or personal growth. 

DON’T forget to talk about your own experiences on the International Studies Network’s blog! 

If you want to know more about teaching English abroad, or have questions about my own experience, feel free to email me at angieburdge7@gmail.com.