Desi had been a teacher in several schools and even operated her own business. But when she realized that she needed something new to challenge her, Desi signed up for TESOL certification. Here’s her story:
I had taught for a couple of years, first 4th grade in a private school and then middle school in an alternative high school. I didn’t enjoy those jobs because there was too much structure and too little flexibility, especially in how I wanted to organize my lessons. After that, I opened my own dog behavioral consultation business and developed skills working with clients one-on-one. I enjoyed that format much better, but after a while I got bored. I’ve always enjoyed travel, culture, and languages, so I thought I’d give this a try. As it turns out, I love doing it!
What you are doing these days?
I teach for English for Life, working in person with students one-on-one. I also teach online classes for a school in Brazil. I’m hoping to expand my online work because I really enjoy the flexibility of working from home and the medium is very effective for this kind of study. I’m also preparing to begin graduate school in January for my master’s degree in Intercultural Relations. I’m not sure yet what I want to do with the degree in the long term, but I definitely want to grow in this area.
How does teaching make you feel?
I enjoy helping people expand their horizons, both in improving their skills at a foreign language and in learning more about history and culture, too. In the process, I expand my own views and perspectives. I also really like watching as students’ confidence increases and they become more capable in their second language. It’s fun to share in their excitement and pride as their skills improve and they tackle more difficult challenges.
Any words of advice for TESOL graduates or other teachers?
Pay attention to the way you learn things, and experiment. Every student will learn differently and if you can come up with a different approach that works for even a few students, it might make the difference between them struggling or soaring.
Tired of the same old routine? Introducing students to new skills and helping them achieve their goals was just the right challenge for Desi Beauchamp. Give yourself a new start with TESOL certification from English for Life. Sign up today!! Teach. Travel. Transform your World.
