Anamaria Arana
Current Employer/Organisation Name
IGB International School
What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?
I continued my international teaching career. I worked as Accreditation Coordinator, English as an Additional Language Specialist/Instructional Coach in a preK-8 international school located in Toamasina, Madagascar. Recently I started a new position in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. I am the ESOL coordinator in Middle School. I started my international teaching career in Romania, my home country, as a teacher assistant and support teacher. Since then, I taught in the Philippines, China (where I started my MA with Exeter), South Korea, Madagascar and now Malaysia.
Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?
I chose a career in international teaching because it allows me to immerse myself in different cultures while helping students connect to a global language. I began in Romania, my home country, as a teacher assistant and support teacher, and since then, I’ve had the privilege to teach in diverse settings across the Philippines, China, South Korea, Madagascar, and now Malaysia. Teaching English and supporting other teachers in working with English Language Learners (ELLs) has enabled me to build meaningful relationships with students and teachers from a variety of backgrounds. Each interaction brings unique perspectives, enriching our view of the world. What I enjoy most is nurturing curiosity. Every student has their own questions, insights, and strengths, and it’s a joy to help them recognize how much they can accomplish. I also love that teaching is a dynamic profession—there’s always something new to learn, and my understanding grows alongside my students. It’s both challenging and deeply rewarding, making every day feel purposeful.
What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?
What I enjoyed most about my program was its rigor; it truly challenged me and pushed me to deepen my understanding of literature and language. The coursework was not only intellectually stimulating but also highly applicable to my teaching practice.
What did you enjoy most about studying here?
Self-paced program
Why did you choose to study at Exeter?
I chose to study at Exeter because of its exceptional quality and strong reputation in the field of education.
What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?
Several skills and experiences have proven invaluable for my career in international teaching. First and foremost, my ability to adapt to diverse cultural contexts has been essential; working in various countries has taught me to be flexible and responsive to different educational environments. Additionally, strong communication skills are crucial, as they enable me to connect with students from a range of backgrounds and effectively collaborate with colleagues. My background in offering professional development has enhanced my leadership skills, allowing me to empower other teachers and contribute to their growth.
What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?
If you’re in university and thinking about becoming a teacher, my best tip is to get involved and make the most of your time there. Jump into your classes and look for chances to tutor or be a teaching assistant—it’s a great way to see what teaching is really like. Connect with your professors and classmates; they can be a huge help in finding opportunities later on. Check out any clubs or organizations related to education; they’re a great way to meet people and stay in the loop about what’s happening in the field. And don’t forget to reflect on what you’re learning along the way; it’ll help you figure out what kind of teacher you want to be. Enjoy the journey!
What are your plans for the future?
Teach in South America.
