After Taylor Frame graduated in 2014 she taught in France through TAPIF, a French government English teaching assistantship program. She lived in Millau, a small town in the south of France and taught in an even smaller town, Saint-Affrique. Taylor’s students, in fourteen different classes, ranged between the ages of 2 and 11 years old. Her role as a language assistant included preparing 30-45 minute lesson plans which aimed to improve the students' oral, listening, and comprehension skills in English. Most of the students knew little English, so it was a challenging, yet rewarding, job.
Outside of teaching, Taylor traveled to 15 different countries and 3 continents. Being able to travel around the world, see different ways of life, and gain new perspectives on other cultures, she says, was definitely a highlight of her time abroad.
In addition, her French skills improved dramatically. Living in a small town where few spoke English allowed her to be fully immersed in the language. Taylor plans to teach in France again next year.
Taylor describes her time in France as an incredible, challenging, and fulfilling journey. She learned to navigate all aspects of life in a different language and culture successfully, as well as sharpen her teaching skills. The job was very demanding, however, it was a very gratifying and enriching 8 months. Taylor reflects, “During my time at Denison, I never thought I would end up teaching in France for two years of my life. I am so thankful for the experience and opportunity. I credit my liberal arts education for my success.”