Finding your path by taking the leap: Adriana's EF journey

15 years | 8 roles | 2 divisions | 1 location

From launching service-learning programs with local communities in Peru and the Dominican Republic to forging partnerships with institutions like the Louvre and the Anne Frank House, Adriana Delshorts has continuously embraced each new challenge as an opportunity to grow. Along the way, she’s built teams, shaped strategy, and explored what a global career can look like while raising a family.

In this Q&A, she reflects on the moments that shaped her path, the lessons she’s learned across cultures and roles, and what continues to inspire her after more than two decades at EF.

What did you study in school? How does that relate to what you're doing today?

I earned my degrees in Business and Economics from Bridgewater College in Virginia. Moving to the US at age 21 on a full scholarship, without speaking English, was a life-changing experience. Like EF’s founder, Bertil Hult, I learned the language through full immersion, and that journey profoundly shaped me and the skills I rely on in my role today.

Later, I completed my master's in Business Administration from the University of Barcelona at La Trobe University in Melbourne, Australia. Studying across different cultures for several years deepened my global perspective and fueled my passion for our mission of opening the world through education.

How did you first find out about EF, and how did you start working here?

I first learned about a traineeship opportunity at EF Educational Tours through my university network. As I explored EF's mission and core values, I immediately felt a strong connection. I remember thinking, “This is exactly the kind of organization I want to be part of.”

Can you tell us a little bit about your career trajectory? Where did you start, and how did you get to where you are today?

I started my journey at EF as a trainee at our former headquarters in Lucerne. The intensive six-month internship with EF Educational Tours led to a promotion as Area Manager for Spain, where I supported all operational fronts, negotiated contracts with suppliers, and organized tours for North American student groups.

Next, I transitioned to the team overseeing France, where my mission was to negotiate contracts with hotels in Paris for multiple student groups. This role allowed me to build a strong foundation in negotiation.

Then, I was sent to Latin America as Regional Manager to launch our Service Learning tours in the Dominican Republic and Peru. This was a brand-new project for EF Educational Tours, partnering with local NGOs, and our groups of students participated in community-driven projects, from coral reforestation to building stoves. It was an eye-opening and deeply rewarding experience that taught me the power of collaboration and how, working together, we can accomplish anything.

From there, I grew into the role of Director of Operations, supporting all operations and managing our team of 50 Tour Directors across Latin America. After these incredible years in Latin America, I transitioned to Europe to focus on building strategic partnerships for EF Educational Tours as Senior Specialist for Strategic Partnerships and Innovation. In this role, I had the privilege of establishing collaborations with institutions like the Anne Frank House and the Louvre.

Later, I moved to our B2B division, EF Corporate Learning, a new division and a shift from operations to sales. I began as a Senior Global Account Director, applying all the negotiation skills I had honed in my previous roles. This experience paved the way for my next step as Country Manager in Switzerland, where we grew a team of two into a thriving team of 19 across the DACH region. Today, I proudly serve as VP of the region.

How have job opportunities happened for you during your time at EF?

Each opportunity felt like the right next step in my journey. At EF, I truly believe that opportunities are limitless. With a go-getter mindset and the willingness to take initiative, it’s possible to continuously reinvent your own career path.

Looking back over your time at EF, what are some pivotal moments that shaped your career path?

Becoming a mother was a pivotal moment in my career. At the time, I was traveling 80% of the year, working across Latin America. It made sense to change divisions so I could be fully based in Europe and be a present mother. I deeply appreciated how EF supported me in this new chapter of wearing two hats. In fact, when our second child was four months old, I even brought him along to a kickoff in Dubrovnik. That experience perfectly reflects the kind of support there is for working parents at EF.

Is there a specific moment or project that’s stood out as the most rewarding in your career?

Sitting around a bonfire in the Dominican Republic, participating in a reflection with a group of students after their service-learning experience, was one of the most rewarding moments of both my career and my life.

In just ten days, working alongside local NGOs on community-driven projects, I witnessed an incredible transformation in the way they saw the world. Their growing awareness, sense of responsibility, and genuine commitment to launching impactful initiatives back in their own communities was truly inspiring.