1) Travel the world: English teachers are in demand all over the world. With TESOL certification, you can get a job almost anywhere. There are few careers that offer so many international opportunities.
2) Experience the world without leaving your city: Even if you decide to stay home, you’ll teach people from all over who are usually eager to share their culture with each other and with you. As an English teacher, I’ve learned about Korea’s black noodle day, been “forced” to dance Samba in front of my class and seen personal pictures of festivals throughout the world. You’ll also find this profession attracts adventurers from all corners of the globe. I’ve had colleagues from Hungary, China, Iran, Germany, and Australia, just to name a few. Staff potlucks are amazing!
3) Meet all kinds of people: Not only will you meet people from all over, but you’ll meet people with diverse backgrounds and points of view. I’ve had the pleasure of teaching scientists, artists and entrepreneurs; introverts and extroverts; young and old. Each has brought a unique perspective to the class. I can’t think of any other setting where such a diverse group would assemble on a regular basis. My colleagues have also been an eclectic bunch, from struggling actors to former accountants.
4) Get to know your own culture: Students are usually very curious about North American culture. They will ask you questions like “why do you celebrate Halloween?” or “why do you knock on wood?” The answer to these questions is often “I don’t know,” and you’ll find yourself suddenly curious. You will also find that many things you assumed were common sense are in fact culturally specific.
5) Get to know your own city: You will find yourself a resource for all things related to your city. Students will ask you where to buy stamps, the best place for pizza and what events are happening this weekend. While you can certainly point them to Google, it’s more fun to give them your tips. Because of my students, I’ve attended dragon boat festivals, Greek Days and more.
6) Get to know yourself: During your classes, you’ll find yourself sharing on topics you’ve probably never thought about much. It’s a great way to discover beliefs you’ve never examined. You’ll also find that students will pick up your vocal mannerisms and favourite expressions. It’s a really strange way to become aware of your vocal quirks and the kind of vocabulary you use. Apparently, I say Oooookay a lot.
7) Become a more effective communicator: You’ll be constantly checking in with your students to see that they understand your instructions or new language. You’ll learn to look for signs of confusion. You’ll start avoiding rambling and unnecessary words and cut straight to the point. These skills will serve you well outside the classroom.
8) No two days are the same: Every day you’ll concentrate on new material and even if/when you start the whole cycle over again, you’ll have new students to keep you on your toes. It’s pretty hard to get bored.
9) Be a part of the most amazing experience of many people’s lives: When students prepare to return home, even the toughest may shed a tear. For many students, the time they spend in your class and your city is one of the best experiences of their lives. How amazing to have a job where you get to be a part of someone’s most memorable adventure.
10) Have an excuse to be a holiday dork: Okay, I know this last point isn’t for everyone. But I love Christmas and being an ESL teacher gives me an excuse to be a little hokey about it. Hey, I’m sharing my culture and my tastes, right? If you hate Christmas or you celebrate something else, that’s awesome too. Students will appreciate your point of view and/or whichever celebrations you’d like to share with them. The wonderful thing about this profession is there’s room for almost everyone.