News from our grads
Natalie in Japan
One of Teach International's newest team members, Natalie Ceola,
joins TI as the perfect example of how
to make the most of the English teaching industry both here and
overseas. Natalie is actually a 2003 Teach International graduate from
Cairns who put her training into practice in Japan and who is now working
for the company to help other people fulfill their dreams of overseas
adventures.
Why did you decide to teach English overseas?
I got my first taste of overseas travel at the age of 15 and, ever since, the desire to do it again and experience new cultures stayed with me. So when I saw the advertisement to 'Teach English Overseas', I knew it would be a fantastic opportunity. The ability to live and work in another country has always been a dream of mine. I completed my degree in Tourism and Business Management in 2002 and worked in the conference department at a resort in Far North Queensland. After two years I decided that I needed a change and it was time to embark on a journey that was rewarding and fulfilling.
Where and when did you go? What did you do? How long for and when did you get back?
I was really fascinated with Asian people after meeting and
interacting with them while at the resort. So after I completed my
TESOL course with Teach International in 2003,
I applied for jobs in the 'Land of the Rising-Sun' - Japan. Within two
weeks of applying I had accepted a job with a language school whose specialisation
was teaching children English and in May 2004 started the amazing voyage.
For 18 months I taught children from as young as one year old to 15 years
old. Their incredible enthusiasm and spirit to learn English was the
most rewarding part of my job and every day I looked forward to teaching
them not only about English but also about the Australian culture. I
returned to Australia in January 2006 with fantastic memories and stories
of an incredible experience.
Did you enjoy it? What did you get out of it?
Absolutely!! My school organised my pick-up from the airport, training and then transport to my town of Nagaoka City in the Niigata Prefecture (north-west of Japan). The people I worked with were a great bunch (including Japanese teachers as well) and we would regularly visit our local bar or go out to dinner both during and at the end of the week. My town was beautiful and snowed for four months, which was great as I love winter, and to also see the true colours of autumn was breathtaking. The local Japanese people were really friendly and although their understanding of English was low, they would always try to converse with me or try and help me when I was confused and/or lost (which was quite often!). I made some great, lifelong friends with both Japanese and other native English teachers within my town. I also keep in contact with some of my students who regularly write me letters so they can practise their English writing. Japan allowed me to go beyond my boundaries and explore the unfamiliar. I experienced a way of life that was so totally different to my own and a culture that is so rich, fascinating and unique. The only thing that I didn't get out of this experience was the Japanese language. I tried as best as I could but failed miserably!
Any funny stories?
My students at one of my schools told the Japanese teacher that
they thought it was funny when 'Nat Sensei' put
on her unhappy face because her nostrils flared!!
What do you think now about coming to work with Teach International?
It's great to be working with the company that initially gave me the opportunity to teach English. The motivation shown by all staff is incredible and I am happy to be apart of such an enthusiastic team which is constantly striving to provide the best for their students/graduates. The best part of my job? The fact that I am able to talk about my experiences in Japan and offer encouragement to those who are interested in achieving the same rewarding journey. I could keep talking forever!
What would you say to someone thinking about doing it?
It's an opportunity of a lifetime. Never be afraid of what lies ahead because it is the unknown that makes it exciting!!
Images: Natalie in Kyoto(top), with
her students (middle), and near her home town
of Nagaoka during Autumn(above).
Natalie Ceola - TI Grad / Sales and Administration Coordinator
