18 May
Moving abroad changes you in ways you never expect. One year ago, I was a recent graduate in Texas, working an underpaid job and feeling stuck. I knew I needed something different, but stepping into the unknown was terrifying.
Searching for a new job is never easy. It comes with uncertainty, fear, and endless “what ifs.” Somehow, those same “what ifs” led me all the way to South Korea — and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Starting Over in South Korea
Life in South Korea has been fresh, overwhelming, exciting, and completely life-changing.
At first, everything felt unfamiliar. The transportation system, cultural differences, language barriers, and even ordering food felt intimidating. I still laugh thinking about the times I almost walked out of restaurants because I panicked trying to order.
But over time, things became easier.
Now, I know how to navigate daily life here. I’ve learned how to adapt, communicate better, and appreciate the beauty of living outside my comfort zone. Is life here perfect? No country is. Every place has its pros and cons. But if you ask whether I regret moving here, the answer is absolutely not.
One full year of teaching abroad has taught me more about myself than I ever expected.
Expectations vs. Reality as a First-Year Teacher
When I first started teaching, I had a picture-perfect idea of what kind of teacher I would be.
I imagined students instantly loving me. I thought every lesson would run smoothly, instructions would always make sense, and communication would come naturally.
Reality humbled me quickly.
Sometimes you repeat instructions seven times and students still stare at you blankly. Sometimes half the class doesn’t understand step one. Sometimes lessons flop completely — and that’s okay.
Teaching is not about being perfect. It’s about adapting constantly.
I learned how important patience, consistency, and flexibility really are. I slowed down my speech, used more gestures, simplified instructions, and celebrated every small win:
- A student confidently answering a question
- A correctly spelled word
- A shy child volunteering to speak
- A simple head nod showing understanding
Those moments became the most rewarding part of teaching.
The “Bad Kid” Phase Every Teacher Understands
There were difficult moments too.
Some days felt straight out of a movie — students ignoring instructions, not listening, or seeming completely uninterested. There were days I questioned whether I was making any difference at all.
It’s hard not to take those moments personally.
But eventually, I started noticing change.
Grades improved. Writing improved. Students who barely participated started raising their hands. Quiet students began speaking more confidently. The progress wasn’t dramatic overnight, but it was real.
That’s when I realized something important:
Teaching is not about being the “cool” teacher. It’s about being a steady one.
Clear boundaries, patience, and consistency matter far more than being liked.
These children are learning an entirely new language — and in some cases, multiple languages at once. One of my students is learning English, Japanese, and Mandarin simultaneously. Meanwhile, I feel accomplished just learning a new Korean phrase.
What students need most is someone patient enough to believe they can succeed.
How Teaching Abroad Changed Me
Teaching abroad stretched my patience in ways I never imagined.
Before this experience, I thought I understood patience. I didn’t.
Now I understand the deep breath teachers take before repeating instructions again. I understand the emotional energy it takes to show up consistently every day, even when you’re exhausted.
And doing all of this while living in a country where you don’t fully speak the language adds another layer of challenge.
It can be chaotic, exhausting, humbling — and incredibly rewarding all at once.
The most beautiful part has been watching students grow in confidence over time. I’ve seen students who once whispered answers now volunteer eagerly in class. Watching that transformation happen in real time is something I’ll never take for granted.
I hope that years from now, I’ll be remembered the same way I remember the teachers who shaped my own life.
One year down. So much growth on both sides.
And honestly? I’m just getting started.
Kaitlynne Maldonado, Marketing Assistant
I have always been passionate about traveling and experiencing different foods and cultures. So after I graduated with my bachelor's in psychology from Central Christian College of Kansas, I decided it was time for a change of scenery. From working as a Registered Behavioral Technician, I packed my bags (and paperwork!) and leaped to teach as an English teacher in South Korea! When I'm not in the classroom, you can find me exploring hidden cafes to try different types of matcha drinks, trying street food, or attempting to hike the mountains near me. I am thrilled to continue this journey and have an experience of a lifetime!
