Alumni Spotlight: Jenae Caught the Greenheart Travel Bug; from Italy to Colombia
Cartagena, Colombia
Our teacher, Jenae, is now teaching English in Cartagena, Colombia on her second Greenheart Travel program. She previously taught on our program in Piedmont, Italy as well! Get to know her a little, and her motivations for teaching abroad twice, in two drastically different countries!
Why did you first decide to teach English abroad?
I decided to teach abroad because it’s a great opportunity to travel with a purpose. It’s a way to not only connect with a foreign country, but to also create a connection with the people and their culture in an authentic way. Teaching abroad allows me the opportunity to travel while also leaving a positive impact on various communities along the way.
How has your experience in Italy impacted your experience in Colombia?
Teaching in Italy was an amazing an experience and I believe it is a great building block for teaching in other countries around the world. I am currently in Colombia and I am so thankful for the guidance, collaboration, and encouragement of my Italian host teacher. Being an assistant teacher in Italy gave me a lot of practice, which helped to build my confidence.
Venice, Italy
What are the biggest differences that you have noticed between Colombia and Italy?
I find that culturally Colombians and Italians are both very generous, caring, and family oriented people. When it comes to food Colombians fry everything where Italians never fry anything. I also think there is an energy and love for expression in Colombia, that you can’t help, but feel. Italy is a country grounded in classic simplicity and strong traditions. I love both countries, but for very different reasons
Why did you choose to teach abroad for a second time on a whole new continent?
Never in my life would I have ever thought that I would be living in South America, but that’s the beauty of life, you never know where it will take you next. I decided to teach in Colombia because I have spent most of my time traveling through Europe. I’ve been to 7 European countries and I thought this was a great opportunity to try something new and I’m so glad I did. Colombia is full of beauty and wonder, it has exceeded every expectation I ever had.
Do you have a favorite travel quote or motto that you live by?
My favorite travel quote is “All you touch and all you see is all your life will every be.” I don’t know who said it, but it reminds me that life is just a compilation of every experience I’ve ever had whether it’s good or bad; so why not make it interesting.
