These answers to frequently asked questions should help you in considering the WorldTeach Bulgaria program. If you have further questions, please call the WorldTeach office at 1-800-483-2240 or 617-495-5527.
Q: When does the program start and end?
A: The Bulgaria Summer program runs from mid to late June to mid to late August, depending on school schedules and flight availability. The program lasts for eight weeks, which includes a week-long orientation and seven weeks of teaching. Exact travel dates will be available approximately two months before departure.
Q: Do I need to speak Bulgarian?
A: No, there are no language requirements on WorldTeach programs, and while you will have the chance to learn a lot of Bulgarian through this immersion experience, all you need is fluent proficiency in English to participate.
Q: Do I need to get a visa?
A: US passport holders do not need a visa to enter the European Union for periods of less than 90 days. Non-US passport holders should contact the WorldTeach office to discuss procurement of a visa if necessary.
Q: When will I find out where I will be teaching?
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Q: What type of housing will I be staying in?
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Q: Will I get training?
A: Yes. Your first week in Bulgaria will be spent in an intensive orientation training program with your fellow volunteers. This will include orientation to the country and culture, language training and teacher TEFL training. Teacher training will focus on teaching methods, lesson planning, teaching resources, and a teaching practicum.
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Q: Is it safe?
A: While there is some level of risk involved in traveling and living abroad, WorldTeach does not place volunteers in any area considered dangerous, and pays close attention to US State Department and Embassy advice. During orientation the Program Coordinator will discuss health and safety issues with you; please feel free to raise any concerns with them.
Bulgaria, as a member of the European Union, is a stable country, and the people are very welcoming.
Q: What if I get sick? Are there doctors and hospitals?
A: As a WorldTeach volunteer you will have health insurance coverage that includes emergency medical evacuation insurance. For medical expenses such as doctors visits, medicines, etc. you pay up front and then file an insurance claim to get reimbursed. For larger expenses the insurance company may be able to arrange direct payment to the hospital or medical provider.
During orientation, the Program Coordinator will inform you of the location of good hospitals and doctors. He will also be available to assist you if you have any questions.
Q: What immunizations are required?
A: The best source of information on immunizations and travel health is the Center for Disease Control's website at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. This provides recommendations for travel and detailed information on specific diseases. Also refer to the Staying Healthy book WorldTeach sent in your confirmation packet. Be sure to consult your doctor or a travel health specialist and remember that WorldTeach staff members are not qualified to give medical advice!
Q: Will there be a chance to travel to other places?
A: Yes. You may travel on weekends and days off from school. Additionally, trips to major cultural sites like in the region, and celebrations with host communities all supplement the program. During orientation and two conferences you will together with other volunteers and the field staff have the opportunity to see major sites in Bulgaria.
Q: Can I make my own travel arrangements?
A: Yes. If you book your own travel to Bulgaria you must plan to arrive in Sofia on or before the date of the group flight's arrival, so that you do not miss any orientation activities. Be sure to buy a ticket that has a changeable return date, in case your travel plans should change. Volunteers traveling independently must inform the program manager in writing of their travel plans. If you book your own ticket WorldTeach will reimburse you the cost of a ticket on our group flight.
Q: What should I take with me?
A: A suggested packing list is included in the Volunteer Handbook, which you will receive after being accepted and confirming your plans to participate in the program. Do not take too much baggage - you will need to be able to carry it easily.
Q: How much money should I take?
A: This will depend on how much you intend to travel, and the lifestyle you intend to lead. We recommend taking travelers checks and some cash in fairly small denominations, and having a credit or debit card so that you can access more money as needed. Access to US$1000 would be more than sufficient for spending money.
Q: Can I speak with someone who has done this program before?
A: Absolutely! We can put you in contact with a returned STEP Bulgaria volunteer who can answer specific questions for you. Please contact us directly and we will gladly answer all of your questions.
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