I Got Hired: Isabella

Posted on: 10 November 2024 by Kablir Cross in Class of 2023

Isabella Johnson is a Class of 2023 German and Italian graduate who now works as an Assistant Teacher for English with Phorms Education: Josef-Schwarz-Schule.

How did you hear about your role and decide to apply for it?

I was lucky enough to find this role through the simple use of the internet! I spent a lot of time searching for jobs related to teaching English, or English-speaking roles in Germany. At the time I really wasn't picky, my main goal was to find something more permanent, which would allow me to remain living in Germany.  When this role popped up, although I knew I had no formal teaching qualifications, I thought, 'Why not?'. I took a chance, sent off my application, and luckily secured the job. 

How did you get to where you are now?

After graduating, I participated in the British Council Language Exchange Programme as a Foreign Language Assistant. I was assigned a placement in a small primary school outside the town of Worms, Germany. This was my first teaching experience, but really laid down a great basis for everything I had to learn. I was given the freedom to lead, organise and create lessons on my own. I worked in a tight-knit cohort and therefore was able to learn vast amounts from my colleagues' experiences. I believe this work experience aided me greatly in securing my current role. It was also this placement, which gave me the motivation to continue working in the field of teaching and particularly made me fall in love with living in Germany.                

Your favourite experience as part of your role?

Since I have only just started my current role, it's hard to say what my favourite experiences will be. However, I am particularly excited to see what it's like working in a bilingual secondary school, switching between English and German. As I reflect on my previous placement, I can say with certainty that the most rewarding part was always seeing the enthusiasm of the young children as they discovered the joy of learning a new language.  

The most challenging part of your graduate journey?

While I had experienced moving and living abroad as part of my Year Abroad at university, moving here after graduation felt much more certain. Back then, I knew I was returning home and coming back to Liverpool for my final year. However, as I arrived in Germany in September 2023, it was with the exciting (and hopeful) intention of staying for good!

Although exciting, this is also naturally an extremely challenging part of my graduate journey. All my friends were either moving home, or starting fresh in new cities together, so beginning this new adventure alone definitely felt quite daunting. But I'm really proud to have taken that leap, despite the challenges I may have faced.  

Top 3 Tips for current students and graduates:

1. My biggest tip for any current students and graduates is to make sure you enjoy your final year at university! While there is naturally a lot of stress that comes along with essays and exams, you shouldn't forget to embrace the fun moments - living with your friends and exploring such a wonderful city like Liverpool.
   
   
2. For upcoming graduates I would also recommend not putting too much pressure on yourself to immediately find a job post-uni or comparing your journey to others. Everyone moves at their own pace, and you'll find the right opportunity when the time is right.
3. Nevertheless, it is always useful to keep an eye on the internet, searching for jobs using keywords related to your future desired work experiences or travel opportunities.

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