Teaching English Abroad: A Path to Personal and Professional Growth
- Will Davies
- Feb 11
- 4 min read
Updated: May 6
Many graduates feel the weight and stress of job hunting in a competitive job market. Some choose to take a break from academia. Others go for a gap year. Why not find the perfect middle ground by teaching English abroad?
Teaching English provides a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth. Here’s why teaching English—and working abroad, in general—could be the best option for recent graduates.
Why Graduates Are Seeking Work Abroad
After graduation, many students want a break from academia. But they don't just want to pass the time drinking Soju or eating Pad Thai.
Increase Employability
A study by The State of Student Youth Travel 2024 revealed that 87% of young travelers believe that traveling enhances their employability. Moreover, 79% of students and graduates want to travel mainly to boost their career prospects. Whether through traveling, volunteering, or working abroad, the intention behind this desire is clear.
Economic Challenges
The cost of living crisis and an unpredictable job market are pushing many graduates to seek opportunities abroad. Low-paying, demanding jobs don’t match the high costs of living. Teaching English offers a stable job opportunity for those with a bachelor's degree and native English proficiency.
Community Impact
From a personal and ethical standpoint, teaching English abroad is a philanthropic endeavor. It can help open doors for young students, fostering their education and career prospects.
Cultural Immersion
Climate anxiety is rising. People are looking for sustainable ways to travel. Slow travel and living in a foreign community not only support language development but also nourish local economies. When you pay rent, buy coffee, or play soccer with your students, you engage with the community.
Why Now is the Best Time for Teaching English Abroad
Returning to a relentless job market often brings the dreaded question, “Can you explain this gap in your resume?” Teaching abroad provides valuable skills that translate into any industry.
No matter your degree—be it in Maths, English, Engineering, or Fashion Design—working abroad reveals your initiative and independence. As an English teacher, you will learn to manage classrooms, lead activities, and tackle language barriers.
From anecdotal evidence, many colleagues leveraged their teaching experiences abroad to advance their careers. Some transitioned into roles as curriculum developers, teaching recruiters, writers, or even local business owners.
Explore the Wonders of the World
Teaching English abroad doesn’t just provide career benefits. It grants you the chance to visit globally renowned landmarks. Whether you want to see Ha Long Bay, the Great Wall of China, or Gyeongbokgung Palace, these wonders become accessible during your time overseas.
High Global Demand for English Speakers
While job prospects may ebb and flow back home, the desire for English speakers remains consistent worldwide. Native English speakers possess a highly sought-after skill—often taken for granted. Teaching English abroad is an option that regularly presents itself to native speakers. It’s worth noting that you can teach English abroad without a degree or even as a non-native speaker.
English serves as the lingua franca of the world. International businesses frequently rely on it as their bridge language. Countries like China, Japan, and South Korea need English speakers for significant transactions.
The tourism and hospitality sectors also create enormous demand for English speakers, with countries like Thailand and Vietnam offering rewarding teacher roles.
Financial Benefits of Teaching Abroad
Due to the high demand for English teachers, many positions in Asia offer substantial financial rewards. Teaching abroad typically includes competitive salaries along with benefits, all while living in regions where the cost of living is significantly lower.
Here are the average monthly salaries for teaching English in Asia:
China: $1,500 - $2,500 USD
South Korea: $1,800 - $2,300 USD
Japan: $2,000 - $2,500 USD
Vietnam: $1,200 - $2,000 USD
Thailand: $1,000 - $1,500 USD
For example, the cost of living in Bangkok is 150% lower than in London. Rent in New York is 360% higher than in Beijing. Even Los Angeles is almost 600% more expensive than Hanoi. While salaries may seem lower than in Western countries, they certainly stretch further, offering an excellent standard of living and strong saving potential.
Source: *Numbeo
Since the UK's exit from the EU, securing jobs abroad has become trickier. Due to visa complexities and reduced mobility, Asia stands out as a great opportunity for graduates eager to work internationally.
Employers are 50% more likely to hire applicants with "global learning experiences that included exposure to diverse perspectives."
Industry-Savvy Skills Development
From a professional viewpoint, international experience differentiates you in a competitive job market. Teaching abroad, regardless of the industry, showcases your independence, cultural adaptability, and willingness to learn.
In South Korea or Japan, you will adapt to rigorous schedules and responsibilities. Teaching in Vietnam will test your patience as you navigate busy streets. In Thailand, you'll develop improvisation skills, both inside and outside the classroom. The competencies you gain through teaching go beyond industries—shaping you into a versatile professional.
Building Connections
Working abroad expands your network significantly. You'll meet individuals from various backgrounds—both foreign teachers and local professionals.
Not only will you make lifelong friendships, but you'll also learn from individuals with different expertise. These connections may lead to professional opportunities both during and after your teaching experience.
TEFL Courses: Your Gateway to Teaching Abroad
TEFL courses come in many forms. Fortunately, many online options allow for self-paced study—ideal for busy professionals eager to work abroad.
Courses like the TEFL Nomad 120-hour certification offer aspiring teachers the flexibility to learn at their convenience. For those uncertain about long-term teaching careers, a 120-hour TEFL course is an excellent way to explore without a heavy commitment. Plus, TEFL certification lasts a lifetime.
Explore Graduate Jobs Abroad in 2025
Teaching abroad may not have been your initial career choice, but it can turn into a life-changing experience. Not only do you earn a salary and gain international work experience, but you also meet incredible people. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to see the world.
Teaching English abroad is a fantastic option for graduates. It may seem too good to be true, but this path can indeed foster personal and professional growth.
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