When I first set out to teach English abroad, I had no idea just how much it would change my life. What started as a six-month plan to explore a new corner of the world turned into a 12-year adventure that has shaped who I am today. Here are five ways teaching English transformed my life—and how it could do the same for you.
1. I Fell in Love with Teaching and Travel
What started as a short-term plan turned into over a decade of teaching and traveling. Don’t worry, you don’t have to commit to 12 years! But for me, it was the work-life balance, the chance to immerse myself in new cultures, and the ability to call multiple countries “home” that made me stay. From the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene beaches of Thailand, every destination offered new lessons and adventures.
I always thought I’d return home eventually, but teaching abroad has shown me that “home” can be wherever you create it.
2. I Tried Things I Never Imagined
Teaching abroad isn’t just about the classroom—it’s about the life you create outside of it. Along the way, I’ve tried things I never thought I’d do. More to the point, before I went travelling, I didn’t even know that I wanted to do them! Some of the things I never thought about doing before travelling that I absolutely loved include:
- Swing dancing in Vietnam
- Acro yoga in Bali
- Muay Thai Boxing in Thailand
- Riding a motorbike in New Zealand
- Living in a van in Australia
- Wildlife watching in Madagascar
- Swimming with dolphins in Indonesia
- Getting washed in a river by locals in rural Thailand (yes, that really happened!)
Every new place brings new experiences, and teaching abroad has opened doors to adventures I never dreamed possible.
3. I Found Love
Traveling the world with someone you care about is an extraordinary experience. For seven years, I shared my journey with my partner (who I met abroad!) exploring new countries, cultures, and adventures together. Though we eventually parted ways, the memories we created are some of the best of my life. Now, I’m building my dream life with someone new, from a different country! Someone who shares my values of freedom and exploration. Teaching abroad gave me the opportunity to build relationships that are deep, meaningful, and unforgettable.
4. I Discovered the Power of Education
Teaching gave me a new appreciation for the English language and the role it plays in people’s lives. For my students, learning English wasn’t just about grammar or vocabulary—it was about opening doors to better jobs, connecting with the world, and building their futures.
Watching a student’s confidence grow as they master a new skill is one of the most rewarding feelings in the world. It reminded me of how transformative education can be—not just for students, but for teachers too.
5. I Learned to Treasure the Little Things
Some of the most impactful moments of my journey weren’t grand adventures but small, meaningful connections:
- When I first started traveling, a friend who I met from Ireland opened my eyes to the connections you can make when travelling. He gave me an Irish ring engraved with “Love, Laughter, Friendship.” Twelve years later, I still wear it.
- In the mountain hill tribes of Thailand, I gave a bracelet to a little girl, and she later gifted me one she had handmade—a touching and heartfelt exchange.
- In Vietnam, a group of locals “adopted” me at a waterfall. We spent an unforgettable day together, sharing meals in their home, partying, and even going on a fishing trip!
- Taking photos in a tiny remote village with people who had never seen a foreigner before felt surreal—almost like being famous!
- Being invited to dinner in people’s homes, even without speaking the same language, highlighted the universal power of human connection.
- I once met a local family on the beach who invited me for dinner. I later became their daughter’s tutor, and she’s now about to attend university. She still remembers our lessons and stays in touch.
These moments reminded me of the kindness and beauty in the world—and how teaching English allows you to connect with people in profound, unexpected ways.
Ready to Change Your Life?
Teaching English isn’t just a job; it’s a doorway to freedom, exploration, and personal growth. Whether you’re looking for adventure, connection, or a fresh start, teaching abroad could be the life-changing experience you’ve been searching for.
So, are you ready to start your journey? Let’s make it happen.
Click here to talk!
