The Cause for Haiti and Teaching Overseas Advice
Posted by Info Info on Fri, Jan 22, 2010 @ 11:23 AM
The eyes of the world are focused on the small, Caribbean nation of Haiti. Along with the Dominican Republic, Haiti occupies the island of Hispaniola, in the Greater Antillean archipelago.
Haitian Creole and French are the official languages. Considered a relatively poor nation, Haiti has a rich and prideful history, unique for several reasons:
- Haiti was the first independent nation in Latin America
- Haiti was the first post-colonial independent black-led nation in the world
- Haiti was the only nation whose independence was gained as part of a successful slave rebellion
- Haiti is the only predominantly Francophone independent nation in the Americas
- Lastly, Haiti is one of only two independent nations in the Western Hemisphere (along with Canada) that designate French as an official language.
On January 12, 2010, a 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck Haiti. The capital and largest city, Port-au-Prince, was devastated. Firm numbers have not been made available yet, but at least tens of thousands of people were killed.
It will take time to determine the exact number of dead and degree of destruction. The Presidential Palace, Parliament and many other important structures were destroyed, along with countless homes, businesses, hospitals, schools and shantytowns.
The damage has caused terrible sadness but there is also the chance to rise up again. Haiti is sure to rebound from this difficult chapter in its history. Aid from all over the world is coming in and the once beautiful palace, Parliament and city of Port-au-Prince will stand tall once again.
It will take time but the people of Haiti are resilient. Haiti's neighbors and the international community have a responsibility to help and support the country, in any way possible. With everyone lending a hand, Haiti will undergo a kind of rebirth and hopefully be a stronger nation in the long run.
Haiti serves as an important lesson for English teachers serving overseas, as well as for volunteers away from home. Disasters can strike at any time but being prepared can make all the difference. If you are planning on teaching or volunteering overseas, make sure you have a "crisis reaction plan." This includes being knowledgeable about:
- Where your country's consulate/embassy is located
- Having someone to stay with if your own home becomes unsafe to reside in
- Knowing where the airport or nearest transportation is located in the event of an evacuation
- Having a system in place to get a hold of your family or loved ones if traditional communication lines break down
- Knowing where the nearest hospital or relief station is located
These are just a few things to consider when residing in a foreign country. Traveling throughout the world and seeing far-off lands is a special thing that is more enjoyable when you are being thoughtful, attentive and aware of what to do in case of an emergency.
TEFL Institute has helped thousands of people travel the world and achieve their teaching certification. The goal of our graduates is to work abroad as professional English language instructors. After achieving their TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification, they are free to go anywhere and land the position of their dreams.
The Chicago, Illinois based company provides the standard 120 Hour TEFL certification course. Enrollees have the option of taking the course online, in the comfort of their pajamas!
They also have the option of taking the show on the road by going overseas and taking condensed international classes, available on five continents. TEFL Institute is proud to graduate more than 1,500 students a year.
Not only does TEFL Institute offer the tools to become an English teacher working abroad, but we also advise and instruct on what to expect when you arrive in the country of your choosing.
To learn more about how we assist our graduates in finding teaching opportunities in the Caribbean or perhaps South America, Europe or in Asia -where the demand is even higher - check out our job placement assistance page.
Our TEFL Institute graduates go on to amazing experiences both teaching and living in locations outside their home country. We can help you get on a plan and path for a rewarding and inspirational experience.
TEFL Institute's staff, alumni and students are committed to supporting the relief effort in Haiti. We encourage all our friends and supporters to help in any way possible.