From the US to Morocco to China with the CELTA Course

Taking the CELTA at English for Africa in Meknes, Morocco was one of the best decisions I’ve made for both my career and personal growth. As someone from the United States, I wanted an experience that would not only provide a TEFL certification, but also offer the chance to immerse myself in a new culture. My CELTA cohort graduated in late 2023, and looking back, I realize how special the experience was. I made many lifelong friends in Morocco and we formed such a strong support system which shared many challenges and failures during the course! The bonds we created during our time together in Morocco have lasted well beyond graduation, and I know these friendships will continue to enrich both my personal and professional life.

After the course, I took time to decide my path forward. A year later, I decided to make the leap to teach in China! Due to my experience teaching different age groups at English for Africa, I knew I would prefer to work with adults. China offers English teaching positions at public universities as a part of the foreign expert visa program. By Chinese law they have to provide housing and more limited work hours which makes it a very attractive program. I applied through China Connection Education Service and I worked with a recruiter to go through a few universities. I chose the University of Science and Technology of China, which is part of the Chinese Ivy League and is ranked #6 in all of China.

After finding out I was hired in China, I reached out to Mr. Oummih (Director of English for Africa and CELTA instructor), and he helped direct me toward useful resources for my new role. Recently, I spoke to one of my colleagues from the CELTA course and they provided me with endless support. Due to what I learned in the program and the support provided even after I left, I feel fully capable of developing lessons for the graduate students I will be teaching this spring semester.

English for Africa is the place you should take your CELTA whether you are a native to Morocco or you are coming from abroad! The hospitality in Morocco opened my eyes to a different way of seeing culture and social life. The very first day I arrived, I felt at home. The friendships you develop in CELTA are ones you will keep for a lifetime. I write this blog post from my apartment in China wishing you luck on your journey towards CELTA! It is time to begin lesson planning!