So You Want to Teach English in Colombia? Here's What You Need to Know (Or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Aguardiente)

05 December 2024 • Colombia

Colombia. Land of magical realism, breathtaking landscapes, and… me, desperately trying to explain the present perfect continuous tense using charades and the three Spanish words I actually know.

You're intrigued, aren't you? The allure of teaching English in Colombia is strong - the vibrant culture, the delicious food (arepas, anyone?), the chance to finally dust off that rusty Spanish degree. But before you book your one-way ticket to Bogotá, let me, your friendly neighborhood Colombia veteran, offer some hard-earned wisdom.

1. "Fluent in Spanish" is a Relative Term

Sure, your Colombian students technically speak Spanish. But throw in some costeñol slang, a rapid-fire pace, and the occasional mumble, and you'll feel like you've landed on Mars. My first week, a student asked me, "Profe, ¿quiere guaro?" Thinking he was offering me some exotic fruit, I enthusiastically agreed. Turns out, "guaro" is aguardiente, the local firewater that tastes like a party in your mouth (and a hangover in your head). Lesson learned: brush up on your Spanish, but be prepared for a linguistic rollercoaster.

2. Embrace the "Colombian Time" Concept

In Colombia, time is more of a suggestion than a rule. If a class is scheduled for 2 pm, it might start at 2:15… or 2:30… or maybe even 3 pm. Don't fight it. Just go with the flow, grab another tinto (tiny cup of black coffee, which you'll be consuming by the gallon), and remember: "tranquilo" is practically a national motto.

3. Prepare for the Unexpected in the Classroom

Forget your meticulously planned lessons. In Colombia, you might find your class interrupted by a spontaneous dance party, a power outage, or a rogue chicken wandering in from the street (true story). Flexibility is key. And always have a backup plan (preferably one that involves minimal technology and maximum improvisation).

4. Food is Life (and a National Obsession)

Colombians take their food seriously. Be prepared to be offered endless plates of bandeja paisa (a heart attack on a platter), ajiaco (a delicious chicken and potato soup), and enough arepas to build a small house. Don't even think about refusing, or you'll risk causing an international incident. Just loosen your belt and enjoy the culinary adventure.

5. Salsa Skills Are Not Mandatory (But Highly Recommended)

Colombians love to dance. From salsa to vallenato to cumbia, music is the heartbeat of the culture. Don't worry if you have two left feet; just be willing to give it a try. Your students will appreciate the effort (and probably have a good laugh at your expense).

6. You Will Become a Celebrity

Prepare to be stared at. As a foreigner, you'll stand out, especially in smaller towns. Embrace your newfound fame. Kids will shout "gringo!" (don't take it personally, it's usually affectionate), people will want to practice their English with you, and you might even get invited to the occasional family gathering.

7. You Will Fall in Love

With the country, the people, the culture, the food… Colombia has a way of getting under your skin. You'll be mesmorized by its beauty, its warmth, and its chaotic charm. Don't be surprised if you find yourself extending your stay, or even making Colombia your new home.

So, you still want to teach English in Colombia? Fantastic! Pack your sense of humor, your adventurous spirit, and a healthy dose of patience. It's going to be a wild ride, but it will be an experience you'll never forget. Just remember to pace yourself on the aguardiente. 

Emma Reid traded spreadsheets for salsa in Bogotá, Colombia, where she taught English for two unforgettable semesters.