Welcome to My Blog!

Hi everyone! 

My name is Erica — thanks for being here!

I just wrapped up my second week teaching in Thailand, but I want to take a moment to introduce myself and share how my experiences led me here! I hope to inspire anyone thinking about teaching abroad to take the leap and show that it’s truly an experience worth having.

About Me

I’m 24 years old and from Rhode Island. In my free time I usually like to keep things slow– by reading, baking, going on long walks, playing with my cat, hanging out with friends, or watching whatever show my boyfriend and I are hooked on at the moment. As a former barista, I love going exploring new coffee shops or visiting my favorite tried and true ones.

I graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder in 2023 with a degree in Integrative Physiology and a minor in Business. If you're wondering if it's possible to have a completely unrelated degree and still end up in the classroom, I'm here to show you that it's absolutely doable, even without the prior professional experience!

After college, I was living in Denver when I made the decision to move to Thailand to teach English. I’ve always been passionate about learning and have spent a lot of time working with kids in both academic and recreational settings. My career goals shifted when I graduated, and I found myself wanting to explore something new that felt meaningful to me. Teaching abroad turned out to be the perfect opportunity to combine my love of travel, learning, and connecting with others.

Why Thailand? Why Now?

My first experience with CIEE was during my senior year of college when I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain. I made some of my most cherished memories that fall semester throughout Europe, and actually even met one of my best friends, Mason! Fast forward three years, and we decided to teach in Thailand together.

That semester opened my eyes to how much I valued traveling, how much there is to learn from other cultures, and how much I still have yet to understand. I knew I wanted to live abroad again, but this time in a place that felt completely new and outside of my comfort zone.

I should also note that a job market that wasn’t suitable for recent graduates back home made me realize there was no better time than the present to finally pursue this dream and move abroad for work. Settling on Thailand was an easy choice. It was the most unfamiliar setting, and I wanted to challenge myself in every way. Plus — it’s Thailand! I knew how lucky I’d be to have the chance to live here and explore Asia. It’s a place that is equally defined by its vibrant scenery and the warmth and hospitality of its people. I was really looking forward to this change of pace and mindset. 

Getting TEFL Certified

I actually was inspired to get TEFL certified by other alumni blogs I was reading, noting that they echoed a lot of the same nervous emotions before embarking that I was starting to feel. I wanted to help myself feel a little more prepared and comfortable if I had the opportunity. In the 60-hour course, I learned enough to feel confident in myself that I could lead a classroom of young students.

Stay Tuned!

I am living in Khon Kaen teaching pre-k. This city is in the northeast region of Thailand and I know it will be such a special place to spend this chapter. My students have already become my little besties, though they love to keep me on my toes. They are at such a funny age, and I’m so happy to be a part of their experience. More on this later! Be sure to follow along :)