Antigua, Guatemala – 2017-2018

Maximo Nivel – English Language Teacher

Colegio Boston Bilingue – Kindergarten Classroom Teacher & Middle School English Teacher

I had gone on many backpacking trips and travelled alone before moving to Guatemala, however this was the first time I had ever moved away. Leading up to the move I was terrified and cried a lot! This was the fear of the unknown, the fear of making a mistake, the fear of letting down everyone back home. Once I landed in Guatemala City, I knew I made the right decision.

Growing up I had always wanted to take part in exchange programs offered in high school as well as the study abroad programs offered in university. I was never fortunate enough to be able to experience these opportunities, and finally moving abroad on my own fulfilled that childhood dream. I believe that leaving one’s hometown, or country, for a cultural or study experience is something everyone should experience. I understand that not everyone has access to the same opportunities, but I do plan on ensuring the learners in my classroom dream big and strive to learn as much as they can about different parts of the world. If I somehow find myself teaching older learners, I will definitely expose them to exchange programs and study abroad opportunities that are either affordable or paid-for programs so that there is equal opportunity for them to engage.

I learned a lot about music, dance, cuisine, and celebrations while living in Guatemala. I was fortunate enough to meet very lovely people who welcomed me into their homes, invited me to witness and take part in traditions, as well as work within the community at local schools. Living in Guatemala will always hold a special place in my heart.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – 2019-2020

Aurora International Preschool of the Arts – Kindergarten Lead Teacher

Wisdomland International Preschool – Preschool English Teacher ages 3-4

When I moved to Vietnam I thought I was prepared, as I had lived in another country before. The moment I arrived I was immediately hit with the extreme culture shock! I learned a lot about the diversity and multiculturalism in Vietnam, I was shown a different perspective of how the war affected the people of Vietnam and how its effects are still seen and felt today. I saw what it was like to live like the richest of the richest, and I also in some ways was able to experience what life was like for those not so fortunate. The schools that I worked at reflected this dichotomy of rich and poor all combined, and it was really jarring for me to witness such blatant acts of authority, discrimination, and respect all at the same time.

Alongside all of the personal experiences and growth that took place for me, I was able to see how much other cultures value education and the lengths that parents, educators, and schools will go to create memorable experiences for children. Majority of schools here in British Columbia are public and therefore are lacking funding, though in Vietnam the schools I worked at were all privatized and had quite immense amounts of money to spend on materials and resources, and trips.

After School Sports & Arts Initiative, Kamloops, BC – 2021-2022

Moving to Kamloops was something I never thought I would do. I am very used to picking up my life and moving abroad, but when in Canada I always saw myself in the Lower Mainland. Moving to, and now living here in Kamloops has been an amazing experience and has opened me up to so much knowledge about my own province and country. I have spent much time learning about the Secwépemc culture, explored new terrain, and met some incredible people. I started working for the After School Program in SD73 and this has helped me network through the district in a multitude of ways. I work closely with the coordinator of the program and this has led to me to many other opportunities at different schools. In working with ASSAI I have gotten to meet many amazing kids in the district and been able to give them a safe space to spend time in after school is finished. From ice skating in Chase, practicing yoga in Brock, to making drums with a local Knowledge Keeper in Sahali, I have learned a lot and witnessed how important it is for kids to be able to express themselves!