Tell us something about yourself. We’d love to know about your background?  What inspired you to go abroad to Vietnam?  

I have always loved to sing in particular choral singing. I was a member of the boydell choir in Trinity College Dublin were I fulfilled roles as both public relations officer and social secretary. I’ve always had a deep love for travel, experiencing new cultures, and trying different foods. This passion was the driving force behind my decision to take part in the internship in Vietnam. Having just completed my Degree, I knew I wanted to take a year off to explore the world. Teaching English abroad seemed like the perfect opportunity to travel, earn money, and develop valuable new skills along the way.

What were the best parts of your TEFL course experience? Do you feel like it prepared you for teaching in Vietnam?

I really enjoyed learning the methodologies behind teaching English—it was fascinating to see the different approaches to language instruction. While the TEFL course provided a solid foundation and insight into teaching, I’ve found that real learning comes from hands-on experience. The training sessions and demo lessons at my language school in Vietnam were incredibly helpful, but ultimately, you grow the most by being in the classroom.

Were you originally on a much different career path?

Yes! I have a Degree in History and Political Science and hope to work one day in the European Union or United Nations, so teaching English wasn’t something I initially envisioned for myself. However, this experience is equipping me with so many transferable skills—communication, adaptability, leadership—that will be valuable in any career I pursue in the future.

What is one thing about the life of teaching abroad that you never expected? 

I never expected just how fascinated the students would be to see me as a teacher coming from Ireland! I did not expect the interest in my life. Primary school kids, in particular, are always full of energy, eager to learn, and absolutely love playing games. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and it makes teaching incredibly rewarding. However, the flip side of that excitement is that it can sometimes be challenging to keep their attention. Managing a classroom full of energetic kids can be tough, but you learn to go with the flow and adapt quickly.

Describe your day as a teacher in Vietnam. How many hours a week have you been teaching? How big are your classes?

I currently teach 18 hours per week, with an additional 4 hours on call. However, this doesn’t include my commute, which can take up to 40 minutes each way. I also spend around 15 hours a week preparing lesson plans and presentations. My classes average about 40 students, which may sound overwhelming at first, but you adapt surprisingly quickly. With the support of a teaching assistant or local teacher, managing a large class becomes much more manageable.

Now that you have some experience of your placement in Vietnam, can you tell us about the highlights of your experience, both inside and outside the classroom? Tell us what’s your favourite thing about Vietnam. What do you like doing on your days off?

One of the main forms of transport in Vietnam is motorbikes. This is an exhilarating experience and one that you will experience time and time again.

Another highlight has been the friendships I’ve built with other interns. Going through this experience together creates an incredible bond, and we’ve shared so many laughs navigating life in a new country.

Vietnam’s café culture is another favourite of mine. The country is obsessed with coffee, smoothies, and juices, and the countless cafés scattered throughout the city provide the perfect spot to work on lesson plans while exploring new flavours.

Of course, one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching is the students themselves. Their excitement, curiosity, and the little gifts and drawings they surprise me with make every day special.

Another highlight from day to day teaching is the use of a drum to signal the end of class and beginning of break. 

Have you done much travelling since moving to Vietnam? if so, where have you been?

Even though I’ve only been in Vietnam for a short time, I’ve already had the chance to explore quite a bit! My adventure started with a five-day orientation in Hanoi, which included lots of sightseeing and cultural immersion. After moving to my placement in Haiphong, I quickly got to experience Tet, the Lunar New Year, which meant a week-long school break. A group of 20 interns and I took this opportunity to travel to central Vietnam, visiting Hoi An and Da Nang for seven nights.

Our trip was packed with unforgettable experiences—boating through Hoi An’s coconut forest, seeing the city’s famous lantern-lit river, exploring My Son Sanctuary and Marble Mountain, and even taking a cooking class. One of the most memorable parts was staying together in a big villa in Da Nang, which made for endless fun and bonding.

What advice do you have for someone on the fence about whether to teach abroad or not?

Take the leap! The idea of moving abroad can be daunting, but knowing that you can always return home if it’s not for you helped put things in perspective for me. The experience of teaching and living in a new country is incredibly enriching, and you grow in ways you never expected. So if you’re on the fence—go for it!

Looking for another incredible teaching adventure? Our Vietnam Internship is the perfect opportunity to gain hands-on teaching experience while immersing yourself in Vietnam’s culture. Enjoy full in-country support, accommodation assistance, and a community of fellow TEFL teachers. Whether you’re seeking a career boost or a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Vietnam is waiting for you!