Teaching abroad offers an exciting and transformative experience, opening doors to cultural immersion, professional growth, and personal fulfillment. Ernesto and Mariana, a dynamic teaching couple from Panama, took a bold step into the world of international education with the guidance of Search Associates (SEARCH). Their journey from scientists in the rainforest to thriving international educators in China serves as an inspiring story for those considering overseas teaching.
From Research to Education: A Passion for Teaching
Mariana Franco and Ernesto Gomez met in a place they fondly describe as the "tree of life," where humans, leaf-cutter ants, and fungus co-exist. Their story began at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Gamboa, Panama, a prestigious center for tropical rainforest research. As young scientists, they studied the intricate relationships between leaf-cutter ants and fungi—research that fascinated them both. Their passion for science soon translated into a love for education, as they began guiding and mentoring emerging researchers, including Ph.D. and master’s students from Europe and the United States. During this time, they noticed a surprising gap in basic research kills among international students, further igniting their desire to teach.
Their teaching journey began with a unique scientific mentorship program at the Smithsonian, designed to spark a passion for scientific research and foster critical thinking skills in at-risk youth. The couple saw firsthand how education could expand opportunities and transform lives, particularly for students who had never imagined a future in science. This realization would later fuel their decision to transition into full-time teaching.
A Life-Changing Decision
Nine years ago, when Mariana and Ernesto started a family, they knew they needed a more stable career. Ernesto explored other interests, including opening a music and recording studio, while also working as a medical coordinator for a health insurance company. Meanwhile, Mariana, who had always enjoyed tutoring chemistry and biology, decided to pursue teaching more seriously.
The pandemic in 2019 became a turning point. Mariana had just started what she believed to be a stable job, where she was introduced to the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, only for her company to shut down and move out of Panama. With a young son, Camilo, and a baby on the way, the couple retreated to the mountains to weather the uncertainties of COVID-19. It was during this time that a remarkable opportunity arose. Mariana secured a part-time online teaching position at an international school in Panama. She instantly felt a connection:
When I first encountered the IB, I realized that students were required to conduct research from the very beginning. It was perfect for me! Teaching them how to develop research questions aligned so well with my background. Then I realized that if I pursued international teaching, my children could also study in these schools. It was a win-win.
By the following school year, Mariana was teaching full-time at the school, and Ernesto soon joined her. Initially hired as a PE teacher—a subject he had never taught before—he embraced the challenge, incorporating elements of science into his lessons. Eventually, he transitioned into an IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) science position enabling the couple to collaborate within the science department to align the MYP and Diploma Programme (DP) science curricula while pursuing their master’s degrees in international education.
Taking the Leap into International Teaching
After three years of teaching in Panama, Ernesto and Mariana felt ready to explore international opportunities. A Colombian teaching couple they met at their school, who had spent ten years in China, encouraged them to attend a job fair. However, without prior experience in the international school job market, they initially hesitated to invest in a recruitment platform. Ernesto recalls:
We were hesitant at first. We kept checking different job platforms but found the process overwhelming. Eventually, we realized we needed guidance to navigate this competitive field. Not everyone is looking for a Latin American, non-native English-speaking teaching couple.
That’s when they discovered Search Associates. With the help of Senior Associate Jennifer Imholt, they gained access to expert advice and job opportunities worldwide. While they originally wanted to attend the Search London job fair, Jennifer suggested the San Francisco fair as a great starting point. Determined to take the risk, they prepared for their journey to London with high hopes and meticulous planning.
The Search London Job Fair Experience
Navigating an international teaching job fair for the first time can be daunting. Upon arriving late due to flight delays, Ernesto and Mariana found themselves in a whirlwind of networking and interviews. They quickly learned that preparation was key. Utilizing the Search Associates platform, they researched schools in advance, read teacher reviews, and refined their job preferences. Ernesto became obsessed with analyzing past teacher feedback to identify trends, while Mariana created a tight schedule for interviews.
Their initial worries about being non-native English speakers dissipated when they secured 15 interviews with schools they admired. The couple was amazed by the opportunities available, even in destinations they hadn’t previously considered. They discovered that in the close-knit world of international education, networking was just as crucial as qualifications. Many overseas school principals at the fair became mentors, offering advice on how to present themselves as strong candidates.
Although they left the fair without immediate offers, they remained hopeful. As they traveled home, they received their first job offer via voicemail during a layover. By the time they landed in Panama, they had seven offers from schools in Malta, Senegal, Ethiopia, Latvia, Tanzania, Cambodia, and Cameroon. Then, an email arrived from their top choice: ISA Wuhan in China.
Embracing a New Life in China
Now well into their first year in China, the Franco-Gomez family is thriving. While adjusting to a new culture comes with challenges, they have embraced the experience wholeheartedly. Unlike many expatriate teachers who live in an international community, they chose to reside in a local Chinese neighborhood, just a ten-minute walk from their school. Ernesto shares:
There is no safer place on Earth! The people here are kind, and the city is easy to navigate. China is incredibly family friendly. In Panama, Colombia, and the U.S., we are always aware of security concerns. Here, safety is a given.
Their children, Camilo (8) and Emma (4), have also adapted well. Initially, Camilo was hesitant about leaving his friends, but he quickly formed bonds with local children. The exposure to new cultures, languages, and traditions has been invaluable. Their school’s strong music program has allowed Camilo to explore violin, while both children have been introduced to sports and poetry deeply woven into Chinese culture.
Mariana and Ernesto strongly encourage other Latin American teachers to consider teaching abroad. They acknowledge that competition is tough but emphasize that persistence and showing up in person make a difference. As Ernesto puts it:
Latin American teachers sometimes doubt their ability to compete in the international market. But every year, more schools are becoming open to hiring us. We bring a different perspective and culture, which is valuable. The key is to take that leap!
Mariana and Ernesto’s story is a testament to the possibilities that exist. With the right support, such as that offered by Search Associates, teachers from all backgrounds can find rewarding careers abroad.
