Meddeas - Meddeas

A South African Language Assistant’s Memoir of Spain

Life After Meddeas, English2025-07-020Comments

Reflecting on what the last eight months have meant to me, I am in awe of the people, places and opportunities I have been connected to through this experience. In June of 2024, I made an impromptu decision to apply to the Meddeas program. This was done out of the inner need to impact the…

My ESL Science Class: Is Science… Fun? Even in English?

At School, English2025-06-050Comments

As a Language Assistant in Spain, I get to teach not only a range of age groups—I teach students ranging in age from 12 all the way up to 18— but also a range of subjects. While I certainly enjoy teaching English as well as my European Union and Economics classes, one of my greatest…

Living Abroad in Seville: A Reflection

English, Why Meddeas2025-05-020Comments

As I reflect on my past two years living in Seville, Spain, I feel a whirlwind of emotions. It’s hard to put into words how transformative this experience has been, both personally and professionally. Moving abroad to teach English was, without a doubt, one of the most challenging yet rewarding decisions I’ve ever made. A…

My TEFL Experience in Spain: Cultural Shocks, Lessons Learned, and Weekend Adventures

English, Discovering Spain2025-04-250Comments

Moving to Spain to teach English is an exciting, life-changing adventure, but it also comes with plenty of surprises. From many cultural differences in the classroom to unexpected challenges, as well as amazing travel opportunities, my time in Barcelona has been a whirlwind of learning and discovery. Here are some of the biggest cultural shocks,…

Settling in with a Host Family in Spain as a Language Assistant

English, Other Topics2025-04-090Comments

First Impressions & Cultural Adjustments Before arriving, I was eager to fully immerse myself in the Spanish lifestyle. I wanted to learn the language, try new experiences, and integrate into the local culture. However, I was also concerned about adapting to my Host Family's daily routine—especially since I would be living in their home. Settling…

Finding Happiness Abroad

English, Other Topics2025-03-200Comments

I have been loving my time in Spain – a joy beyond words. There have been countless experiences and moments that stick out as particularly special, and particularly fulfilling. However, when finding happiness abroad a few elements of the experience, in general, have been exceptionally impactful and bring me joy every day. I have the…

Teach English Abroad: 3 Months In, 5 to Go

English, At School2025-03-060Comments

One of the quotes I live by is Robert Byrne's, “The purpose of life is a life of purpose.” What a joy it has been to teach English abroad in Spain thus far, influencing and developing the minds of 7 to 14-year-olds within the heart of the Basque Country. Before I dive into the specifics…

Life as a Language Assistant in Spain: Discovering Madrid’s Secret Nun Cookies

English, Discovering Spain2025-02-174Comments

During my time as a Language Assistant in Spain, specifically Madrid, I found hidden cookies sold by nuns from their monastery. These cookies are delicious, but the best part about buying these cookies is the experience. The monastery is located on Plaza del Conde de Miranda between Plaza Mayor and Palacio Real de Madrid. It…

Do I take that Gap Year in Spain?

English, Why Meddeas2025-02-060Comments

Spoiler Alert: Heck Yeah! As my brain runs at a million miles an hour, overwhelmed with the lessons to be prepped, the trips to be planned, and the friends that need to be caught up with, yet I am put at peace – for this is all I have known. Attending laboratory meetings in the…

Charlotte Menzies Runciman Christmas in the classroom 8

Advice to My Past Self: Tips for First-Time Teachers

English, At School2025-01-170Comments

Last year was my first year as an English Language Assistant with Meddeas. Like many first-time teachers, everything was new - the school, the culture, the language - and I would be lying if I said it wasn’t overwhelming. Don’t get me wrong I was so excited, but I wasn’t sure how I would find…