🌟 Graduate Feature: Meet Griffin – Embracing the Power of Language and Life in Costa Rica 🌍
📍 From New York to Garza: A Journey Fueled by Passion and Purpose
In January 2025, Griffin, a dedicated educator from New York, graduated from Costa Rica TEFL with a clear mission: to grow professionally, explore a new culture, and empower others through the gift of language. With a Master’s degree in Education already in hand, Griffin saw TEFL certification as the perfect way to enhance his resume, broaden his teaching experience and live a life in Costa Rica.
Today, he’s living that vision as an English teacher in the laid-back beach town of Garza, Costa Rica.
“Learning a new language is like unlocking a whole new world you did not have access to before. To be able to help people achieve that superpower is a great feeling.”
🎓 Why Costa Rica TEFL?
Griffin was drawn to Costa Rica TEFL by its stellar online reviews and immersive program design. He was looking for more than just certification—he wanted a meaningful, challenging experience. And he found exactly that.
“The best way to learn is to be thrown into the fire and perform… gaining experience right away is far more beneficial than what a textbook can give you.”
One of the most personally impactful experiences during the program was forming two strong friendships with fellow trainees. The bond they built led to an unforgettable weekend adventure in Monteverde.
He also credits his host family with helping him grow not just as a teacher, but as a person.
“I was able to learn so much Spanish from my host that I can now call her a true friend.”
📚 A Day in the Life: Teaching in Garza
Griffin teaches at a Waldorf school, where he works with 1st to 6th grade students, Monday through Friday. His daily schedule runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., giving him the balance to enjoy the coastal lifestyle while remaining focused on student growth.
When asked about a favorite classroom moment, Griffin smiles thinking back to a lesson on adjectives:
“I brought in different foods, blindfolded the kids, and had them describe and guess each one. It was such a fun, hands-on way to connect language with experience—and they loved it!”
“The rapport I build with students and having the ability to better a child’s day with empathy and understanding—that’s my favorite part of teaching.”
🙌 Advice to Future TEFL Teachers
For those on the fence about getting TEFL certified, Griffin offers this advice:
“Do it. It is genuinely so fun. You have so much support that if you give your full effort, you are almost guaranteed to succeed. It is unlike any course you have ever taken. Barb has perfected this course down to a science. It is a winning formula with Eleanor and Tonya at the forefront.”
❤️ The Unexpected Joy: Community Kindness
While the teaching experience has been life-changing, Griffin says the most unexpected gift was the kindness of the Costa Rican people.
“I would not be where I am today in this country without the help of people who barely knew me at the time. It is a kindness I was unfamiliar with before coming here.“
Living in a new country has brought him challenges, but also deep life lessons.
“Problems are inevitable—you just have to embrace and tackle them head on. I believe the people of this country understand that it takes a village.”
✈️ Inspired? Your Adventure Awaits
Griffin’s story is a shining example of what happens when you mix passion, purpose, and the power of language. If you’re looking to make a difference while experiencing a rich and welcoming culture, Costa Rica TEFL might be your next great step.
👉 Ready to start your journey of life in Costa Rica? Apply now or learn more about our program!
By: Alexis Lattin
Administrative Coordinator CRTEFL