flywithlivIT WAS 2021.
I didn’t know a lot then, but one thing I knew for certain was that I wanted to get a teaching job abroad after finishing teachers college.
If you remember (or perhaps, don’t want to remember), the COVID-19 pandemic had just passed its 1-year anniversary of changing our lives forever. I was nearing the end of my studies, overwhelmed with figuring out the next steps of my life.
I had applied to school boards locally, succeeding in two substitute teaching positions. I was well congratulated for this feat and was definitely proud of myself. However, I knew in my heart this wasn’t what I wanted.
“MY DREAM HAD ALWAYS BEEN TO WORK ABROAD”
The Difficulty of Getting Hired During a Pandemic
Of course, many attempts to apply to schools worldwide. I had 5 schools, but got denied by them all. Schools told me they weren’t hiring teachers abroad because we were unreliable due to travel restrictions. Worst of all, schools were denying me due to my lack of in-person teaching experience as all my practicums took place online.
During our online career fair, there was one school that stuck out to me because they encouraged all of us newly qualified teachers to apply. It was a Swedish international school board called Internationella Engelska Skolan. I had already been denied by them twice, but felt in that I needed to try again. I mean, surely, one of the school in the board would hire me?
In the span of a week, I had 2 online interviews and very quickly received an email from the school: I got the job!
Without any hesitation, I was ready to accept. I was so excited! Seriously, my family had to calm me down and tell me to read the contract before I did anything reckless.
Within a month, I had packed up my bags and on July 31, 2021, I moved to my wonderful new home in Stockholm, Sweden.
Teaching Abroad 1 Year Later…
Now, after just 1 year of living abroad I have visited 12 countries and experienced double the adventures! It truly is a dream come true!
Therefore, if you are looking for a sign to teach abroad, then look no further. This is it. Go for it!
For those who are teaching abroad already, how was the application process for you? Let me know down below!
