International Teaching Tips

The beginning of the holidays and end of the year is always a reflective time for me. As I wonder what the year ahead holds and ways to intentionally better myself, I am simultaneously flooded with memories. This year, my husband and I are applying for international teaching jobs. Doing so has got me thinking of the little things and behaviors I learned along the way. Welcome to my random collection of tips in an equally random order.
1. Be aware of wardrobe
If you are attempting to make connections and build friendships within the community, a few pieces of locally-admired clothing can do wonders. Wearing kitenge in Uganda and Euro-styled pieces in Switzerland did almost as much for me as learning the language, when it came to signaling that I was keen to adapt, learn, and connect. 

2. Invest in your retirement
While international teaching can be more lucrative than teaching in your home country, you have to keep in mind that you're missing out on the pension plan that might balance out the scales. About a decade into international teaching, I read "Millionaire Teacher" by Andrew Hallam and immediately started a Roth IRA and traditional brokerage account, only wishing I had known to do so earlier. 

3. Dig into what is specific to your locale
"When in Rome," rings true to me. After a few weeks or months in your new country, consider what is unique to where you now are. Or, perhaps a better way to say it, what does that country offer that other places don't? In Uganda, I thrived on loads of volunteering. In Switzerland, I traveled around Europe and took up hiking. In Cayman, I learned beach volleyball and scuba diving. It may seem obvious, but a specific sit-down to reflect and then mindfully choose what activities to focus on is hugely helpful!

4. Protect your pearly-whites
Very specific one here. If you grew up in a country that adds flouride to the water, please purchase toothpaste/mouthwash that contains flouride if you go to a country that does not. I never had a cavity in my life until I spent three years in Uganda, unfortunately aware that my foundation of flouride 

5. Read local authors (and get a library card if available)
It's been really helpful to me in understanding and appreciating other cultures, to specifically read authors and works from countries where I live and even travel. Short stories, folk tales, memoirs: all helpful. Checking out the special history books under lock and key at local libraries is a sort of treasure hunt. 

What are some of your random tips from time abroad?