Lima, Peru English Teaching Q and A with Kimberly Walker

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF!

What is your citizenship? 

United States

What city and state are you from?

Charlotte, NC

How old are you?

28

What is your education level and background?

Master's Degree or Higher

 Have you traveled abroad in the past?             

Some international travel with friends, family, business, etc.

If you have traveled abroad in the past, where have you been?

Cancun, Mexico

What sparked your interest in going to teach English abroad?

While on vacation in Cancun, Mexico I had the opportunity to experience the Latin American culture and speak Spanish with the locals. It was during my vacation, that I decided that I wanted to be a fluent Spanish speaker. I figured the best way to learn another language is to be immersed in the culture. When I returned from vacation, I began to look up programs where I can teach English in a Spanish-speaking country. And the rest is history. :-)

What were some of your concerns before teaching abroad?

My main concern was not finding a job once I arrived in the country.

What did your friends and family think about you moving and teaching abroad?

My friends and family were very supportive. My mom was sad to see me go, but was happy that I was traveling and seeing the world.

TEFL CLASS INFORMATION

Why did you decide to get TEFL certified and choose International TEFL Academy?

I decided that my chances of finding a job overseas would be greater if I was TEFL certified.

I decided to enroll at International TEFL Academy because of the great customer service I received when I called for information.

I was also impressed with the various resources and helped I received when looking for a job.

Which TEFL certification course did you take? 

Online TEFL Class

How did you like the course?

The online TEFL course was great. The tasks/homework assignments were helpful and very appropriate for teaching English as a Second Language. The teacher was great. He was very knowledgeable about teaching English abroad and provided great insight and advice.

I also enjoyed the practicum (student teaching). I did my practicum at a local church and high school. The practicum was very insightful and provided me with the most hands-on experience regarding what to expect when I moved abroad.

How has your TEFL training helped you in your current teaching position?

With the help of TEFL and its resources, I was able to find a job. The training I received from the classes also equipped me with the information needed to teach ESL classes effectively.

For example, I learned information about how to create a lesson plans for class. I also learned various technique to use during class; such as listening, writing and reading exercises. 

TEACHING ABROAD IN LIMA, PERU

Which city and country did you decide to teach English in and why?

I decided to teach English in Lima, Peru - I wanted to go to a big Spanish-speaking country.

How long have you been in this country and how long do you plan to stay?

I have been in the Peru for 6 weeks. I plan to stay for 6 months.

How did you secure your English teaching job?

I sent my resume and cover letter to various English schools.

What school, company, or program are you working for?

Wall Street English

How did you get your work visa? If you didn't get a work visa, please elaborate on working under the table without a work visa.

I work under the table. My job pays me via cash.

Tell us about your English teaching job!

Hours - Between my two jobs, I work between 20 to 25 hours

Salary - My wage depends on the type of class I teach. I received on average S./20 to S/.30 soles per hour, enough to live comfortably

Students - I teach adults and business professionals

Vacation Time - I do not get paid for vacation time.

How did you find somewhere to live and what is it like? Do you have roommates?

I found my apartment via Expat Peru. The website has a lot of resources to help expats find apartments and other things. I live in a student housing. I have my own room but share the common areas. I have 6 roommates.

COUNTRY INFORMATION - FUN!

Please explain the cultural aspects, public transportation, nightlife, social activities, food, expat community, dating scene, travel opportunities, etc. about your country:

Transportation - There are plenty of buses and taxis to get you around the city.

Nightlife - The nightlife is never-ending. There is always something to do in the city. Salsa bars and discos are popular in Peru.

Expat Community - The expat community is awesome. There are several different groups that offer regular activities for expats.

Food - The food is awesome. The food is fresh and not processed. 

COUNTRY INFORMATION - MONEY

What are your monthly expenses?

Rent- S./700 per month

Food - S./ 150 per month

Social activities - S./100 per month

Transportation - S./ 40 per month

Phone - S./ 10 per month. (I have a prepaid phone and pay for minutes)

Other - Spanish Classes -S./240 per month

How would you describe your standard of living?

I would say middle class

In your opinion, how much does someone need to earn in order to live comfortably?

Anywhere from 1500 to 2000 soles per month (approximately $550 to $700 USD) 

ADVICE FOR PROSPECTIVE TEACHERS IN LIMA, PERU

What advice would you give someone planning or considering teaching abroad? Would you recommend teaching in your country?

I definitely recommend teaching abroad. The experience is incredible. I have meet so many different people from all over the world! The Latin American culture is so unique and different from the US.

Advice I would give someone planning to teach abroad is:

1. Do as much research about the country you are moving to. You do not want to have any major surprises about the country once you are in the country.

2. Follow the advice and instructions of the International TEFL Academy staff. They are there for a reason. Use them!

3. Move to the country with an open mind. Things will definitely be different and not what you are use to back in the US. However, embrace change and find the good in everything.