As a Law with Spanish student, the chance to immerse myself in Mexican culture while helping local people learn English not only deepened my understanding of the Spanish-speaking world but also enhanced a range of skills directly relevant to my future legal career.

In Oaxaca, I lived with a local family who founded the language program. From the outset, they welcomed me into their home and community, including me in family celebrations, street parties, and local cuisine. I worked closely with students of varying abilities, from young children to adults in their 30s, teaching them through creative and practical English lessons. Adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and patience were key, qualities which are equally essential in legal practice, especially when working with 

vulnerable families or children. Planning and delivering lessons helped me strengthen my communication skills and taught me to explain complex ideas clearly and simply, which is an ability that will be invaluable when advising clients who are unfamiliar with legal processes or facing emotionally difficult situations.

I embraced the challenge of the fast-paced, varied nature of my work. Teaching abroad requires good organisation and a strong work ethic, especially when designing lesson plans that suit both young learners and adults. This experience has made me more resilient and better prepared to handle the pressures of a legal career, where time problem solving, responsibility, and time management will be essential.

Outside of the classroom, I developed my Spanish language skills considerably. Living and working in a city with a ‘very low’ EPI (English Proficiency Index) forced me to engage fully in Spanish. I became more confident, expanded my vocabulary, and improved my understanding of different dialects, which will be an asset for any future work in Spanish-speaking countries.

Having conversations with local people also gave me a deeper insight into Mexican society, education, and values, broadening my global perspective on legal and social issues. These highlighted both societal progress and challenges, for example how female education rates are higher than before, but stereotypical gender roles and gender-based violence are still rampant, highlighted by the Ni Una Más movement.

I learned about the role of education in breaking cycles of poverty and witnessed firsthand how English proficiency can empower young people. This further reinforced my belief in the importance of access to opportunity and justice and deepened my interest in areas like Immigration and Family Law, which require empathy, cultural awareness and a commitment to children’s rights.

My time with the YES en Inglés program was much more than a teaching placement. It was a transformative experience that broadened my world view, strengthened my skills, and reaffirmed my commitment to social justice. It has added value to both my academics and my ambition to become a compassionate, capable lawyer working to improve the lives of others.