Junior Ashley Tagg, a Corporate Communications major, spent eight weeks in Rome teaching English to students at a summer camp alongside teachers from Russia, Poland, Turkey, Egypt, and Guatemala.

What were your responsibilities as an English teacher?

I planned one hour blocks of instruction based on the children’s ages. If they were younger, I would teach them about the weather or songs.  Each day two hours were dedicated to theater, etc. We put on performances for the parents and the end of the week.  Each week was dedicated to learning about a different country [where each of the teachers were from].

When it was time for the U.S., I made brownies. Apparently, brownies don’t exist there! I thought how people saw us was as ‘hamburgers and hotdogs,’ …but it’s actually as breakfast foods like muffins and pancakes.

What was the most difficult part of working abroad?

We [the teachers] had to identify flaws in our teaching to figure out the best way to teach the kids.

What was your most memorable experience?

There were so many different challenges in a cultural work environment, adapting to the experience and empathizing with others.

Everyone there is very generous and genuine. ..Everyone said “hi” whether they knew you or not. The parents got to know you. They would take you out after work or on the weekends. It’s easier to work there. I felt more carefree. I learned to breathe this summer.

Any tips for students thinking about working abroad?

Do it! It’s a great experience to get work experience while abroad.

When placed in a difficult position, it’s good to reevaluate yourself.

Get out of your comfort zone and see what you’re really like when away from friends and family.

Work ethic is different across the globe in terms of ethics and leadership.