When I set off on my adventure to London in 2012, I knew that it would be a great experience, allowing me to explore Europe and further my teaching career. It ended up being so much more! Moving to London has enriched my life in so many ways and is truly the gift that keeps on giving.
Living abroad had always been on my mind so I decided to postpone key selection criteria and interview panels because Europe was calling my name. Fast forward 5 months and I was at the airport London bound.
I had a few nights booked in a hostel and work lined up the day after I arrived, but that was it. I didn’t know the city or anyone in it. You can imagine how scared and alone I felt. I said a very emotional goodbye to my family and cried all the way to Dubai.
I arrived at Heathrow and thought ‘I HAVE NO IDEA WHERE I AM!’ I navigated the tube and made it to my hostel and safe haven. I told myself, ‘You know what? You’re here. So give it everything you’ve got!
From then on, I decided to take the attitude of saying yes to everything! If there was a social event where I could meet people, I would go with my best foot forward. I soon made friends who quickly became my new family and support network.
I was fortunate enough to start up a house which had a revolving door of legends who lived with me. They were the people I bonded with most. The house was a catalyst to a massive friendship group that has continued to grow. While living conditions weren’t at a high standard I wouldn’t change a thing!
From the UK I was able to travel to the most amazing places. I volunteered on an African safari in Tanzania, slept under the stars in the Sahara Desert, went hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, hiked in Norway and enjoyed many other adventures. I was able to explore and immerse myself in different cultures in every country. At the end of each incredible trip, I would start to plan the next.
The way I describe living in London is this; you’re like Peter Pan and never grow up. At 29, having been away for over four years, it was time to return home. Leaving my best friends in the best city in the world wasn’t easy.
I developed into a stronger teacher every day through the experience. On challenging days I learnt the most, and also gained the most entertaining stories!
If you asked me ten years ago where I saw myself at 29, my answer would not have been ‘broke and living with my parents’. But I wouldn’t change a thing! I am rich in experience and went from knowing nobody to having over fifty people at my goodbye drinks in London! If I had a pound for every person who said to me at the time, ‘I wish I could do what you’re doing’, I would be rich.
I took a risk, moving to London, and was the best decision I ever made.
If you’re interested in teaching in the UK, come along to one of our information sessions to find out more!
