Teaching English in Myanmar: Holly’s story
Do you dream of teaching English as a foreign language? Or maybe you have your hopes set on living in Myanmar. Read Holly’s story for a little TEFL advice.
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I’m already a few months into my second-year contract in Shan State, Myanmar, and it’s become home - a slightly frustrating at times home, but a home nonetheless. I live and TEFL in Taunggyi, Southern Shan State, in a smallish but ever-growing town surrounded by misty mountains. Outside my town are the greenest landscapes I’ve ever seen, with roads that are forever being repaired. It is perfect for quiet road trips – you can sometimes go for hours without seeing anyone.
There is always so much to see and do that your weekends will most likely fill up quickly
Where I went and what I did
I work for an international school here in Myanmar. They have 6 branches in Yangon and one in Taunggyi. It's a nice change after teaching in summer schools, language centres and public schools around Asia and Europe. This school encourages and supports me to be the best teacher I can be. Of course, working for a school with more funds means I can dream bigger without worrying about how to fund it! I teach preschool and run a drama club with students from grades 7 to 10. All the students are wonderful, funny, smart and kind - and their level of English is incredible.
When you read about Myanmar, you will read about how kind and welcoming the local people are. I’ve never encountered a more gentle, neighbourly, and giving community. My landlord often picks fruit with me from his garden, and if you get stuck in the rain, an umbrella and a smiling face will surely appear. You are warmly welcomed into homes and families; someone always says “Good morning”. When accidents happen, both people apologise and sort out the costs without an argument, and someone always offers you a ride if you look tired!
However, this being said - and just like most other countries - each community isn't perfect, and I’ve met a lot of men who are less than charming to women. This can range from some taxi drivers, who can be inappropriate, to cases as serious as rape, which is one of the most significant issues in Shan state - it's not everywhere but always something to keep in mind. An unseen and highly taboo topic I've often seen in action is monks mistreating animals, kicking cats, etc - animal cruelty is not something many admit to. Sometimes, it’s good to remember that, like any country, Myanmar has good and bad aspects.
There are many possible ways to travel while keeping to a budget. The night busses connect the country, and if you're not up for bumpy, long drives, there are flights – unfortunately, at a much higher price. The beaches down south are perfect; the waterfalls up north are incredible, and everything in between is breathtaking! There is always so much to see and do that your weekends will most likely fill up quickly, especially with more and more areas becoming accessible to foreigners. Each state has its own beauty, and locals are eager to share their unique culture and food with you. The fresh produce at the markets is out of this world (think avocados bigger than your head!).
Reflections on Myanmar
So, with great weekends, lots to see and do, and amazing people, Myanmar is a dream - but like any country, it has its downfalls. Immigration can be hit or miss. Getting a visa is easy, but registering in your local township can be tricky. Most companies will do this for you, although I tried by myself last month.
I turned up with all the correct paperwork and my passport and prepared for a long wait. I was made to wait an hour and was then rudely sent away by a man with a gun and no explanation. Someone from Myanmar returned my paperwork the next day, and it was sorted. Things like this happen frequently, with no reason and no logic. Some days, you can roll with it; some days, it grinds your gears…
Myanmar has been one of my favourite homes, partly due to my school, partly due to the amazing scenery, but primarily due to my friends and neighbours. I’ve grown as a teacher and person, and I can’t wait for the next year.
You can follow Holly's adventures over on her blog and on Instagram.
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