Erin, Mathematics MMath
Global Opportunity: Outreach Trip to Cyprus “I wanted an opportunity to push my boundaries, as well as gaining more experience in teaching”
About Erin
Can you tell us about the outreach trip you went on?
I went to Cyprus, the English School Nicosia, for three weeks.
What made you want to take part in the trip?
I wanted an opportunity to push my boundaries, as well as gaining more experience in teaching. I wasn't sure if this was a field I'd like to do as a career, so this trip gave me a chance to explore it further. I also thought it would also be a good chance to meet new people on my course, as being in lockdown during first year meant I hadn't got to know people that well.
How did you prepare for the trip?
As part of the application process, we each came up with a potential lesson idea. These were narrowed down and refined in the weeks before the trip. There were a lot of meetings and planning of supplies before we went into the schools. On a personal level, I arranged flights and accommodation with the other students going with me and got to know them well before we travelled together.
What was your experience of staying in a new location like?
It was daunting at first having to organise a lot of elements, like booking flights for the first time myself. However as soon as I got there, I learnt to embrace the novelty and go along with whatever was happening. Trying lots of new things, like food, transport and the language really brought me out of my comfort zone for the better.
Can you tell us about some of the skills you gained from this trip?
I think the trip will definitely help with job applications both during and after my degree. I improved my teamwork skills working with the other people on the trip to plan and deliver lessons. It also helped me realise that, as much as I enjoyed the experience, teaching isn't the career right for me. My communication and presentation skills developed, and I got a lot more practice in explaining new concepts using different methods.
Did you enjoy the trip? Can you tell us about some of your highlights?
The highlight of the trip was the group of friends I made there. Living in the same city and apartment meant that we bonded really quickly and stayed close after the trip. We planned to hang out on the evenings and weekends, and after the main teaching component was done, we spent some time exploring the area. Some memorable days were going to a waterpark in Pathos, visiting Northern Cyprus by crossing the border in Nicosia, and having authentic Cypriot food.
What would your advice be for anyone who is currently studying your course and considering taking part in an outreach trip?
I would definitely recommend the experience, it was one of the best trips I have ever been on. I would say embrace all the opportunities that come your way, because a lot of them tend to be a lot more enriching than you realise.