When chatting with Megan, a recent Costa Rica TEFL graduate from August 2025, it became clear just how transformative her journey has been. From working as a Pastry Chef in the United States to building a fulfilling new life as an English teacher located in Samara Beach, Costa Rica, Megan shares how one decision led her to a life she always dreamed of building.
She completed her TEFL certification in August 2025, choosing Costa Rica TEFL not only for its reputable training, but for its stunning location. “It was right on a beautiful Pacific beach,” she told us, smiling. “That alone felt like a dream.”
Why Costa Rica?
For her, moving to Costa Rica wasn’t a snap decision, it was the mix of falling deeply in love with the country’s culture and lifestyle. “I fell in love with the lifestyle here, especially in Guanacaste, which is a Blue Zone. Everything here feels healthier, kinder, and more intentional.”
That sense of peace ultimately pushed her to take the leap. Megan speaks frequently about how peaceful life is here. Finding routine, spending time outside, and connecting with the community are some of the best parts for Megan about living in Samara.
A Career Transformation
Before becoming a teacher, she spent nine years as a Pastry Chef in the United States. After that, she spent a year traveling through National Parks, living and working in nature. Those experiences opened her eyes to new possibilities and prepared her for the adventure of moving abroad.
Today, she teaches English virtually from her home in Costa Rica. Her students are adults improving their English to advance their careers. “I get to be a tool in making their lives better,” she said. “It’s incredibly rewarding.”
Her TEFL Training Experience
Her TEFL Training ExperienceBecause she had never taught before, the training at CRTEFL was crucial. She shared how the program helped her build the foundational skills she uses every day:
- How to plan and execute effective lessons
- How to manage and engage a classroom
- How to create online materials and slides for virtual teaching
- How to keep students entertained and motivated
“It taught me how to be a good teacher,” she reflected. “I had no idea how much I would grow.”
Best Memories from Her Time at CRTEFL
When asked about her favorite experience during the program, she couldn’t pick just one. “Honestly, so many,” she laughed. “I made friends for life. The beaches were breathtaking. And I changed my life for the better.” As an enthusiastic teacher, Megan was able to connect with her peers, students, and staff easily during her time in the course. This also allowed her to create her own community using these connections, once she settled into life in Samara.
Useful Skills and The Best Parts of Teaching:
The skills she feels most grateful for today are her lesson-planning techniques and methods for keeping virtual classes dynamic and interactive. “Those are things I rely on every single day,” she said.
Teaching adults who are working toward a better future brings her immense pride. “They’re learning English to improve their careers. Knowing I’m part of that journey makes the job meaningful.”
Life Outside the Classroom
When she isn’t teaching, she embraces everything Costa Rica has to offer. She spends time:
- Swimming in the Pacific
- Going to the beach with friends
- Attending her local church, where she teaches Sunday School
- Enjoying free community events in Samara
- Visiting the Saturday market
- And of course, enjoying the incredible food
A Look at Her Typical Day
Her days now start with morning coffee and monkeys outside her window. She enjoys breakfast, does some yoga, and teaches a morning class.
The rest of the day is a mix of:
- Preparing lesson plans
- Teaching 2–3 classes
- Grabbing groceries in town
- Taking afternoon breaksSome days she finishes teaching early and heads to the beach with a book and her hammock. “It’s an incredible way to live,” she said.
Life After CRTEFL
One aspect she appreciates most is that CRTEFL didn’t stop supporting her after graduation. “They’re always available,” she shared. “Whether it’s questions about jobs or adjusting to life here. They genuinely care about your future.”
While she chose to settle in Samara, many of her classmates now teach across Costa Rica both in-person and online.
In conclusion:
Her story is a reminder of how powerful one decision can be. What started as a desire for change turned into a completely new life filled with purpose, community, and peace. Costa Rica called Megan, and has now changed her life for the better.
Ready to start your journey of life in Costa Rica? Apply now or learn more about our program!
By: Courtney Perich
Administrative Coordinator CRTEFL