Joe Tvrdy
HR Coordinator for China
Joe surfing in Taiwa
Coming from a small town in Missouri to teach in China for the first time was a big step in my life. Most of my classmates and family did not understand why I would give up a good full time job in the US to travel across the world where I knew absolutely nobody to teach English when I had little to no knowledge of the local language. However, my travels across South America and Europe left me thirsting for a greater adventure, and China seemed to answer that call.
Every part of life in China is an adventure and a challenge, from the language to the traveling and even a routine trip to the store. I enjoy challenges of daily life, and as long as I keep an open mind and a smile on my face, things tend to work out in my favor. The people I live and work with provide endless insight and entertainment, and have helped me gain perspectives on my own life that I never expected. Life in China is very rewarding, and I always think of the delicious food as an added bonus.
Joe climbing Mount Ishinca
Teaching English can be both fun and a bit frustrating at the same time. Even with my preparations and TEFL course, the first few weeks were very hectic! However, after I settled into a routine and develop my own unique teaching personality, I really began having fun in my classes along with my students. Sometimes, it doesn’t even seem like work! The huge amount of free time I have is a great added bonus.
Teaching English is not for everyone, but if you have a desire for adventure, a passion for learning about different cultures or languages, and have an open mind with the ability to laugh at yourself and the uniquely interesting situations that may arise, teaching English in China may be right up your alley.