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Darren Kenny

Took a new direction in life in Japan
Age: 37
From: Victoria, Australia

Why did you decide to become a TEFL teacher?

I was a high school teacher before working as a resource manager with a multi-national telecommunications company in Australia which was well paid, but lacking mental challenge. I wanted to learn another language and mainly, find a way to travel.

How did you make it happen?

A restructure in the company meant I was given the option of redundancy. I took it, took the i-to-i TEFL course and applied for the job I have now. I then put my stuff into storage, sorted out my financial affairs and was ready to go.

What did you do/where did you go?

To teach English in Nagoya, Japan. I've been here for seven months, and have another five months before my contract is up for renewal.

How has it affected you?

The drudgery of working 9 to 5 in an office job in order to pay the mortgage is no longer a goal I desire. I'm far more free than I was this time last year, and life seems full of opportunities. I'm also more patient and less stressed.

What now?

I've found my vocation now: travelling and teaching English. As I now possess a skill that is desirable in so many palaces, I can head somewhere else once my contract expires, or stay on. I didn't have this luxury in Australia.

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