The summer internship at the Birmingham International Academy (University of Birmingham) was not only a professional experience for me but, above all, a journey of personal growth. In addition to taking part in the Academy’s truly diverse student programme, I had the opportunity to observe the daily practice of experienced English teachers and realise that genuine education is not just about developing language skills, but also about empathy, openness, and the ability to connect different cultures and personal stories.
The daily contact with teachers, coordinators, and other BIA staff proved to be one of the most enriching aspects of the entire internship. These were the people who quite literally opened the door for me to new perspectives – not only in teaching English but also in understanding what it means to be a teacher in an international context. I was fascinated by how different each of our mentors was – in their approach, energy, and communication style – and yet how naturally each of them managed to integrate their unique qualities into the needs of their students. Thanks to this, every lesson was authentic, dynamic, and inspiring.
This diversity of styles taught me that there is no single “correct” way to teach. Every teacher has their own voice, rhythm, and energy – and it is precisely this diversity that gives education its strength. The mentoring at BIA encouraged me not to be afraid to be myself – to bring a piece of my personality, humour, creativity, and humanity into my teaching. Our conversations with mentors were deeply stimulating and led us to reflect on the importance of finding a balance between individuality and collaboration. We agreed that a teacher who prioritises their individuality over teamwork will, sooner or later, lose touch with both students and colleagues. Teaching is not a solitary profession – it requires openness, sharing, and a willingness to learn from others. Authenticity thus became a key principle that I want to carry into my future teaching practice, as it creates space for trust, respect, and genuine learning.
One of the key competences that my mentors helped me to develop significantly was undoubtedly the ability to provide effective feedback. I had several opportunities to assess the work of students from different fields, which was an immensely enriching experience. It made me think deeply about how to formulate feedback that is constructive, clear, and genuinely helpful – feedback that not only informs students but, above all, motivates them to continue improving.
The experience of the summer internship at BIA was an exceptional opportunity for me to grow professionally and personally. The mentoring we received went far beyond simple guidance – it was a dialogue, a source of inspiration, and a shared process of discovery. I learned not only from my mentors but also with them, and through this I realised that being a teacher also means being a lifelong learner.
