A Goal 13 Years In the Making

I recognize quitting your job has become quite popular over the last year, but the decision to leave mine was more about a lifelong goal than a revelation that came about while working from home. For the last 13 years, I have dreamed of living abroad; however, it was important for me to accomplish some goals first and to be at home for family during difficult times. It simply never felt like the right time until more recently.

One Thing Always Leads to Another

I’ve worked as an English language conversation partner in various ways over the years, so right before the pandemic came along, I decided to get TEFL certified. Why? 1) I knew I could use it to work abroad and 2) it would be helpful with my volunteer work no matter what.

As part of my certification, I was required to complete 20 hours of practicum. I signed up to volunteer as an English tutor with Paper Airplanes in June 2020 expecting to complete my hours, but I fell in love with the process of working with my student. We ended up working together a total of 14 months. In that time, she received numerous additional job offers – several of which were due to her English skills. Just two months before we finished working together, she negotiated with her current company for an outstanding (and well-deserved) salary increase!

The Big Decision

My entire experience with Paper Airplanes is what led me to decide the time was now. I was feeling more curious about/challenged by my volunteer work than my job, so I decided to take the leap. On top of that, several of the skills I used in my day-to-day work translate to the TEFL world quite well. Much like training leaders or developing new recognition programs, I spent a lot of time strategizing, problem solving, planning, and being a cheerleader to my student. We discussed her career direction and future goals, and I was motivated by knowing my efforts were making a difference in her life.

Why Spain?

Spain offers the North American Language and Culture Assistants Program (NALCAP). Those who are accepted as Auxiliares de Conversación work a limited number of hours and receive a grant and health insurance from the Ministry of Education. There is some structure around the program, which is what I wanted. I also have additional free time to work on my own Spanish, learn about the country and culture, and travel. It was the perfect balance for me.

The Departure

So, after applying, receiving an offer, and preparing and mailing a lot of paperwork, I made the decision to move to Spain. My last day of work in Texas was Friday, Aug. 6. I told a few of my colleagues about my future plans prior to departing and wasn’t sure what to expect. Thankfully, many of them know me so well they were incredibly excited for me. I am forever grateful for their enthusiasm and well wishes!

And the Arrival

I arrived in Madrid on Tuesday, Sept. 21, and in my province of Cádiz on Wednesday, Sept. 22. At this point, I have found an apartment with 2 Spanish teachers (that I absolutely adore!), registered at town hall, toured my school, opened a bank account using nothing but Google translate, and lugged 75 pounds worth of luggage over cobblestone streets. I’m feeling confident, capable, and excited to start work!

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I have so much to say, but school starts tomorrow at 8 a.m. and I imagine I’ll have even more to say after that. I plan to continue writing here to share the highs and lows of this experience, photos of the nearby beach, and all of the new things I’m learning.

In the meantime, here are the most frequently asked questions and their answers:

• Have you ever been to Spain before? Nope!
• Do you speak Spanish? Not well, but I’m determined to learn more and it’s going great!
• What did you do with your stuff? I donated, sold, or stored it.
• What are you going to do when you get back? One step at a time

Here’s to never giving up,

Casey