CIEE TEFL Alumni Spotlight: Devin Foster

Hello! My name is Devin. I'm from Sacramento, California, and I studied Psychological Sciences at Boise State University. I completed my CIEE TEFL's 150-Hour Certificate course in Fall 2024 before starting my CIEE TEFL Job Placement Assistance program in Murcia, Spain, as a Language and Cultural Assistant. 

1. What inspired you to get TEFL certified and teach abroad?

After traveling and volunteering in Indonesia, I was inspired to move abroad and experience living in a new country while also having the opportunity to travel and explore new cultures. Additionally, I was feeling burnt out in my 9/to/5 job and wanted to pursue something more impactful and rewarding. I've always had a passion for training and educating others, which led me to get TEFL certified and teach abroad in Spain. 

2. What have you found most fulfilling about teaching English? 

The most impactful part of teaching English is seeing the students progress each week and watching them grow in confidence when speaking. It’s fulfilling to see students who were once shy begin participating in class and demonstrating real progress.

3. What kinds of jobs have you held (or are you considering) after your CIEE program? How do you think your CIEE experience shaped your career?

My background is in marketing, sales, and customer service. While those roles allowed me to mentor and educate others to some extent, my experience through CIEE TEFL has helped me realize how passionate I am about education. This program has shifted my career goals, and I now plan to pursue a future in education or international programs where I can continue helping others grow and learn.

4. What was the biggest challenge you faced as an EFL teacher? How did you overcome that challenge?

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as an EFL teacher is classroom management, especially with younger students who have limited English proficiency. At first, it was difficult to keep their attention while also getting instructions across. I overcame this with support from my colleagues and by being flexible and adaptable in lessons.  

5. What was the most important thing you learned in your CIEE TEFL course or while you were teaching abroad?

Resilience has been one of the most important things I've learned while abroad. Living and teaching abroad can be incredibly unpredictable. Whether it’s a lesson not going as planned or adjusting to a new culture, I’ve learned to stay adaptable, think on my feet, and stay positive through the challenges

6. What advice would you offer to future CIEE TEFL and Teach Abroad participants?

If you’re thinking about taking the leap, this is your sign to do it! Teaching abroad is one of the most fulfilling and enriching experiences you can have. You’ll face challenges, but those moments will help you grow in ways you didn’t expect. Be open-minded, flexible, and embrace the journey.

7. What was the highlight of the past month for you personally or professionally?

One of the biggest highlights for me this past month was traveling to Palma de Mallorca in Spain and completing my first 10k run. I began running during my free time since moving to Spain and, and crossing that finish line felt like a huge personal achievement. It’s been a great way to stay active, clear my mind, and connect with my new surroundings.

Thanks Devin for sharing your experience as a CIEE TEFL student and teacher!

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