What is a TESOL Certification?
TESOL, also known as TEFL, stands for “teaching English to speakers of other languages.”
In the past, the only requirement to teach English abroad was the ability to speak the language. However, the industry has become much more competitive. In response, language education companies started requiring professional certifications when hiring tutors in order to differentiate themselves.
TESOL is now the gold standard certification for people who want to teach English professionally.
For English teachers living abroad, a TESOL certification can be a requirement if you’re applying for a work permit or visa. So wherever you want to teach English, it definitely makes sense to invest in a TESOL certification.
One of the advantages of a TESOL certification is the time spent actually tutoring students. This is where Tutoria can be a catalyst for a potential tutor’s career.
By creating opportunities for individuals to meet with students one-on-one, Tutoria makes it easy for future teachers to quickly meet their TESOL certification requirements and gain valuable real-life experience, distinguishing themselves as job candidates.
How Tutoria Helped One Student Get Her TESOL Certification
Arla Muy Luna, a recent Chapman University graduate, fulfilled the International TEFL Academy live instruction certification requirements while volunteering at Tutoria.
In fact, she reached her 15-hours requirement in less than two weeks of volunteering with Tutoria!
Arla recently took the time to explain how Tutoria helped her fulfill her requirements at such a breakneck speed. (Her comments are lightly edited for brevity.)
What initially interested you in becoming an English language teacher?
Arla: “I’ve been doing it all my life because my parents are from Guatemala. I’d always be their mini-translator.”
How did you first discover Tutoria and decide to become a tutor?
Arla: “The International TEFL Academy has a list of volunteer opportunities and we have a student center where they help us find employment internationally. I came across Tutoria and thought I should see if they have any spots available.
I went into my first interview, and they were absolutely amazing. So I thought this is the platform for me!”
You had other volunteer opportunities available, so what made you choose Tutoria?
Arla: “I was looking into two different platforms, but Tutoria was my top choice because of the remote opportunities, the one-on-one opportunities through Zoom and the flexibility. With my schedule, I don’t really know when I’m free. I can take this tool to connect with people, but also be respectful of my time and clients’ time. It’s a tool we can use any time of day.”
What stuck out to you about Tutoria?
Arla: “This platform’s very community-based; you can connect with people in management, the community managers and mentors. You can easily contact them and that’s what I wanted to see on a platform, especially in a volunteer program.
I didn’t see that in the other platforms I was looking at.”
How has your experience been tutoring through Tutoria?
Arla: “In my first two days, I got 10 different clients messaging me, asking for help. I thought it was going to take me a week!
We got to meet one-on-one for bonding time before we even started tutoring.
Also, because I’m volunteering while finishing my program, I get advice from my instructors on how to improve my sessions with existing clients.”
What have you learned about English tutoring by doing it live with Tutoria?
Arla: “I have a lot of technical issues; Zoom just dies on me all the time. Having the computer prepared to avoid 10 minutes of awkward space always helps.
I’ve been connecting with my clients through LinkedIn, asking them if there’s anything they need help with. I’ll also give them small assignments. That communication is something I’d recommend.”
How have you enjoyed your overall experience as a volunteer with Tutoria?
Arla: “10 out of 10!
It’s very community-based and I’ve really enjoyed that. I’ve had the chance to take part in projects and meet the management team.
And I’ve met new friends through this platform: people who want to work as volunteers.
My clients are really engaging. I look forward to working with many more!”
Get Started Tutoring with Tutoria to Meet Your Certification Requirements
Working on your own TESOL/TEFL certification? Sign up as a volunteer with Tutoria to quickly and easily find teaching opportunities to fulfill your requirements. You could even be like Arla and get the hours you need in a matter of days!
