Top 7 Reasons You Must Teach English Overseas Before You Die
Posted by Info Info on Wed, Mar 03, 2010 @ 06:32 PM
The practice of teaching is an act we use, share and benefit from everyday. Teaching English overseas is a wonderful opportunity to share what you know and have a great time doing it. TEFL Institute has come up with the top seven reasons why no existence is complete unless you have taught English to a foreign people or culture.
1.) See the world and get paid to do it
Did you ever dream that the Great Wall of China would be within a bus ride of where you live and work? Have you ever wanted to leave the classroom on a Friday and be on a beach soaking up some rays later that afternoon? Did you ever think you would live in a city that features more churches and castles than any other nation in the world? All these things are easily attainable and can characterize your English teaching experience once you complete your 120-Hour TEFL Certification.
There are so many sights and experiences to have and enjoy in this world, and teaching English overseas puts them all within reach. When you are working and living in a country you can sightsee and treasure the top attractions on your time. With a TEFL certification, you will not only have a great job that affords you the funds to enjoy the local lifestyle, but you will also return home with photo albums that will knock the socks off your friends and family!
2.) Gain valuable international work experience
As the world becomes more globalized, borders are breaking down and information is being shared more freely. Living and working in a foreign country, you will see this firsthand and it will serve you well in your professional pursuits. When someone notices international experience on your resume, it opens up so many doors that were once closed. Being able to interact, relate and understand people from various cultures will make you better-rounded and a truly international presence.
3.) You have this rare talent
Teaching is a gift that unfortunately not everyone can undertake. You have this skill-set. Take advantage of this important ability. Make the most out of it. There is something to be said for someone who is not only intelligent but passionate about sharing their intelligence and knowledge with others.
4.) Make new friends that you would never meet otherwise
You probably already have some great friends, but you can always add an extra one. When you are living overseas and teaching English, you will be amazed by how many people want to learn more about you. Locals welcome English teachers into their communities. You will be seen as an educator and often times as a friend. You will be able to learn about what life is like for these people. You will be all the richer for this experience.
5.) The opportunity to give back
Helping others is a natural inclination. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, about 63.4 million people, or 26.8 percent of the population, volunteered through or for an organization at least once between September 2008 and September 2009.
Language, intelligence, stories - these are all meant to be shared. It is only natural to feel an urge to give back or advance others in some way. Teaching English is a form of giving back, only you will be paid for your English and teaching expertise once you complete your TEFL certification.
6.) The fun of it
Teaching and learning are fun! Have you ever wanted to give a lesson on Star Wars? Did you ever think that you could instruct students to role play a conversation on an everyday life/work situation? This is the type of instruction that will resonate the most with your classroom.
These situations and the lesson plans you decide on will make you seem like an ambassador for your home country and city. These are the kind of lessons your students crave. A fluent speaker like yourself can make any lesson fun and interesting. You will also be offering insight into your own background and what it was like for you growing up in your home country.
7.) The challenge of it
You remember when you were a kid and that math teacher told you how to solve a difficult problem? There was that instant when you probably said in your head or out loud, "Aha, I get it!" It was an amazing experience. You can offer these same moments to students studying English. Teaching English is not easy. It takes time and patience. You will need to be hardworking, diligent and compassionate if your students are going to "get it" - the same way you did when you were in school.
The World is Your Oyster
We all want to give back and feel proud when we reflect on what we have accomplished. One of the best methods for giving back and gaining some global experience is through education and traveling.
You will see the evidence of your successful lessons in your own students. When they apply to Universities overseas, or take business or personal trips to English speaking countries, they will be communicating with the words, phrases and confidence you have taught them.
Those that can speak English for business, travel or any other reason have more opportunities afforded to them. So many more doors are opened with English language proficiency. In essence, when you teach English, you are advancing a people.
There is a reason that academics and leaders in business all have a background in English. Speaking in English is like a megaphone to the rest of the world. 
The rise of the English language goes back a few hundred years. As a result of the military, economic, scientific, political, and cultural influence of the United Kingdom from the 18th century, and of the United States since the mid 20th century, English has become the lingua franca in many parts of the world, and the most prominent language in international business and science.
Though the English language is far reaching, there are millions of people who strive to learn this all powerful tool for business, education and prosperity. That's where you come in. You are part of the global elite who touts English as your native language. You can educate others and improve their lives simply by sharing what you already know.
Sharing this all powerful skill is not only generous and uplifting but it can be adventurous and profitable. Countries in Asia have such a need for native English Speakers that they will actually pay for the airfare and housing for a teacher to come there. You are worth your weight in gold!
The world is calling. Are you ready to answer?
Fill out a contact form and you will receive a call from a learned and well-traveled TEFL adviser who can speak with you about your various options.
Start your adventure today with TEFL Institute! www.teflinstitute.com