Frequently Asked Questions

I have been telling people about my decision/adventure for about 3 weeks now, and there seems to be a common mind among them. They always ask the same questions, and so I figure you might have the same questions. Here are the most common ones. If you have a question that isn't on the list, feel free to post a comment and I'll do my best to get it answered.

When do I leave?
I have to be in California on July 17th to start the 3-4 week training program. We will be leaving directly from California to Slovakia when training is finished.

Where is Slovakia?
Slovakia is in Central Europe - surrounded by the Czech Republic, Poland, Ukraine, Hungary, and Austria.

What city will I live in?
Bratislava - The capital city, population: approx. 500.000

Where will I live?
A flat (apartment) with my teammates, provided by the school and furnished with the basics.

What language do they speak?
Slovak

Do you speak Slovak?
Not yet, but I'm learning. My dad forwarded a link for an language program, and so far I have learned my colors and my days of the week. It's pretty cool, so if you are interested in learning a new language, check out http://www.byki.com/

How do my parents feel about this?
They are OK...pretty shocked at first. I've lived very close to them for the past three years, so this will be a definite change for us. But they are very supportive and even a little excited. My grandparents are totally on board, so that helps.

What grade will I be teaching?
I don't know yet. I've submitted a resume for the school leadership to look at and decide where they feel I will best fit. I'm going to guess high school or maybe junior high since this is where I have experience and what my certificate covers. I'll let you know when I find out.

Why Slovakia?
I wanted to keep using my teaching certificate. TeachOverseas.org has two programs that require certificates, and the options were Slovakia or North Africa. I've always wanted to live in Europe, so the choice was easy for me.

How much can you take?
2 large suitecases (50 pounds each) and a carry on (laptop!!).

What are you going to do with all of your stuff?
Store the things most important to me (as little as possible) and sell the rest. I don't have much in the way of furniture really, so I can replace it when I get back.

Will you be paid?
Yes, by the school where I will be employed. It won't be much...I'm assuming like base salary for Texas - a single person can live on it just fine, but there won't be much left over. I think this makes the experience more authentic...real-life-like, not tourist-y. And I'm pretty thrifty anyway.