Teach English Abroad Blog

The hardest part is starting. I get it. Here’s how I turned my fear into my greatest teacher — and why your journey starts with just one step. From UCLA to 30+ countries by 24. I left home searching for more than a career — I was chasing lessons the classroom couldn’t teach. This is the story of how travel became the most honest education of my life.

I thought a degree from a top university would be my golden ticket, until no one wanted to hire me. After graduating from UCLA and applying to over 100 jobs with no success, I realized the U.S. job market wasn’t built for recent college grads like me. That’s when I decided to take a leap and teach abroad with CIEE’s Teach in Thailand program. From rejection emails to global educator in a Thai classroom, I found purpose, fulfillment, and adventure in a place I never expected. In this blog post, I share why teaching abroad changed my life, how much it cost, and how you can do it too.

Whether or not you’re also Asian, this will apply to you. Let’s dive into my experience fitting in as a Filipina American living in Spain.

Oh wow — I did it! Last week was a huge milestone in my Spain journey: I went to the BLS office in Chicago and officially filed my visa application... keep reading

So you’re considering availing yourself of Ireland’s Working Holiday Visa (WHV), a visa designed for recent college graduates or current college students, and participating in CIEE’s Teach Abroad program in... keep reading

Trust me, age definitely ain’t nothin’ but a number. Go after what you want no matter how many candles are on your birthday cake.

Meet Sarah- a CIEE Teach Abroad & TEFL Alum! 😊 Hi, I’m Sarah! I’m originally from New Jersey, but for the last 4 years I have been traveling all over... keep reading

Hi there! I’m Kelsey Aycock, a 35-year-old originally from Georgia, most recently calling Tennessee home. My background is in Child and Family Development—I graduated from San Diego State University—and before... keep reading

Making a change is scary but don’t let it stop you from exploring something new. Hi! I’m Marissa and this is how I transitioned to a life abroad in my 30s.

From former X-rated film screenings to beautiful salmon facades, explore four theaters you must visit while living in Madrid.

When traveling to a new country whose people speak a different language than your own, it’s always a good idea to learn at least a few words in that language... keep reading

As the days in Madrid get longer and the time I have left here shorter, I’ve begun reflecting on what practical, day-to-day advice I would give to someone moving here... keep reading

In Thailand, Songkran is one of the most exciting times of the year. It's the Thai New Year and marks the passing of one year on the solar calendar. Everywhere... keep reading

Why travel solo? One traveler shares how a life-changing solo trip after graduation sparked deep self-discovery, freedom, and meaningful connection. Discover why going alone might be the best decision you'll ever make.

I rated all the hostels I stayed in while in Europe!