Guadalajara, Mexico's pearl of the west, is an incredibly diverse and stately city with amazing qualities, both modern and historic, that embrace all who visit. For a city that is not a resort, Guadalajara offers a very pleasant surprise to the unsuspecting tourist. Guadalajara is an ideal vacation destination for the traveler who is seeking a change of pace from the, sometimes overwhelming, resort scene.
As the second largest city in Mexico and boasting a population of over 3 million, you are constantly reminded that Guadalajara is a busy metropolis, and a major Mexican business center. Although this city beats to a busy pace, things here have a way of seeming to always remain serene. There are many places in Guadalajara where you will feel like you have stepped back in time to a different era.
Guadalajara is a city of monuments, parks and flowers, fountains and tree lined avenues. A city alive with subtle attractions that can keep the first time visitor entertained for weeks. Guadalajara's history dates to the 16th century and the rich heritage of Mexico's colonial gem is evident everywhere you look. The Guadalajara area is known as the birthplace of the world famous Mariachi bands and also as the home of the Mexican hat dance. Nearby is the town of Tequila, everyone knows or should be able to guess, what this town is famous for. The area around Guadalajara is mainly known for the Mexican craftsmen that turn out countless handmade items that are treasured the world over.
The School
Your course will be a 4 week, 120 hour professional certification. There will be classroom work, home study, and live classroom experience in an ESL classroom.
During your four-week course you will study the ‘theory’ of teaching and language development. You will hone your personal grammar skills to the highest level in an environment that is designed to provide you with all the support and nurturing your need to succeed. Each day you receive 4 hours of classroom preparation.
Additionally you will observe and interact with ‘real world’ students. For an additional four hours a day you will interact with you professional ‘mentor’ teachers who will guide and support you throughout your classroom experience. Within the first week you will be teaching students in two different classes.
In the subsequent weeks you will apply those skills, develop your abilities to manage a classroom, work in groups and individually. Each week teaching for longer periods of time until in your third week you are teaching two, two hour grammar and conversation classes.
By the end of your training program you will be confident and comfortable in the classroom. Between your professional and seasoned mentor teachers as well as your TEFL teacher you will be ready to venture out into the world of real life teaching. Teaching English as a Foreign Language is an exciting and rewarding career. It is a professional future that will always be in demand. As you gain more experience and hone your skills further you will always be in demand from the individual to the classroom to the executive boardroom. Teaching ESL is a career for the twenty first century; worldwide job openings are posted every hour of every day.
Housing
Housing options and pricing are dependent upon availability and season at the time of your course. Your onsite coordinator will be able to provide more details and recommendations.
The school in Mexico can provide housing assistance. There are a few options for housing which include homestay with a shared room, homestay with private room, apartments, and hotels. Shared room homestays, which include 3 meals per day, start at around $18 per night. Private homestays begin at $23 per night. In addition there are several options for accommodations at nearby hotels.
Transportation
Housing pick up can be arranged through your onsite coordinator with advance notice. More details will be provided by your onsite coordinator. The two main forms of public transportation are Taxis and Buses. Taxis are plentiful around the city, but you can call ahead to arrange your ride in advance as well.
Climate
Guadalajara has what some consider to be one of the best climates in the world. Dry, mild winters and warm, wet summers are common. The temperatures are warm year-round, and snow is extremely rare.
Tuition Includes
Tuition Includes:
Tuition DOES NOT Include:
Course fee
Job placement assistance
Pre-enrollment and departure advice
Course materials
Accommodation and meals
Personal expenses
Travel to and from the course
Visa, if needed
Airport pickup
Medical insurance (TEFL Institute can recommend medical insurance)