Why I Took the Leap: Teaching Abroad
Hello, fellow educators and wanderlust-driven adventurers! I’m Marissa Lee, a 24-year-old Canadian educator embarking on an exciting journey to teach abroad in the Czech Republic. Welcome to my blog, Marissa Lee Overseas, where I share my experiences and tips on working and traveling in Europe.
My fascination with Europe began at the age of 17 when I embarked on my first trip to the continent. Accompanied by my dad, we visited family in England before I ventured off on my own to stay with the family of a German exchange student friend. Over six weeks, I explored England, Germany, and embarked on a memorable road trip through Austria, Switzerland, all the way to Italy. It was a transformative experience that ignited my passion for travel and cultural immersion.
As I navigated my final year of high school and contemplated life after graduation, I decided to pursue a Bachelor of Education and a Bachelor of Arts in English. My university offered various teach abroad programs, which immediately caught my interest. However, midway through my degree, the onset of COVID-19 dashed my hopes of participating in these programs as they were all canceled. Despite this setback, I remained determined to pursue my dream of teaching abroad.
Initially, I set my sights on England, drawn by the familiarity of the language and the presence of family nearby. I explored opportunities through agencies supporting Canadian teachers in England but soon realized the significant differences in teaching approaches between the British and Canadian education systems. Despite receiving an interview offer from a prestigious private school, I felt that my values didn’t align with theirs, prompting me to reevaluate my options.
The decision to focus solely on England was driven by apprehension about making such a significant life change amidst the uncertainties of starting my teaching career. However, this initial setback didn’t deter my desire to teach abroad. As I gained confidence and experience in my first year of teaching, the urge to pursue my dream grew stronger.
In January 2024, I embarked on a new quest, exploring teaching opportunities across Europe with a more informed perspective. Considerations such as local culture, language, cost of living, and educational systems became paramount in my search. It was during this time that I stumbled upon a remarkable opportunity at a Canadian bilingual school in the Czech Republic. Their mission resonated deeply with me, and I knew it was the perfect fit.
After a swift application process, I was thrilled to receive an offer to work as an academic coordinator and teacher. With excitement and anticipation, I began preparations for my move to the Czech Republic, marking the realization of a long-held dream.
Join me on this journey as I navigate the complexities of teaching abroad while embracing the wonders of European travel on a budget. My experience serves as a testament to the fact that dreams may take time to materialize, but with perseverance and determination, they can become a reality.
Stay tuned for more insights and adventures as I embark on this new chapter of my life. Until then, happy travels!
Marissa Lee
