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A blog that looks behind the scenes at how we bring our mission to life, every day

Lauren Shiraka ‹ We are EF Blog | Careers - 2

Would you dress up in a dinosaur suit if it meant lifting your team’s spirits? Suzi definitely would. In fact, she already has. As Director of Recruitment and Development at <a href="https://www.ef.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Education First</a> in Boston, Suzi doesn’t just find great hires, she creates programs and initiatives that keep EF’s super-talented staff feeling happy and fulfilled—even if that means suiting up as a T-Rex.
Suzi didn’t always see a future in recruitment. Hailing from upstate New York, where trips across the Canadian border to Montreal were routine, Suzi took an early interest in travel. Growing up with a grandfather who was an Olympic bobsledding coach opened her eyes to the value of experiencing life abroad. And so, as a student at UNC Greensboro, she studied political science, hoping to launch a career in international politics.
To gain work experience after graduation, she accepted a staffing gig with a professional services company in North Carolina. But she wasn’t feeling it. “I thought maybe I wasn’t great at recruitment, so I started looking at new jobs,” recalls Suzi. “I applied for an internal recruitment position at a pediatric speech company, and it ended up being an amazing fit. That’s when I realized that I love recruitment and I believe in it—it just needs to be with the right company.”
After finding her niche and relocating to the Northeast, Suzi was approached by EF’s recruitment team about a new opportunity. The more she learned about the <a href="https://www.efexchangeyear.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF High School Exchange Year</a> program, the more curious she became. She loved the idea of putting her background in international studies to work, building relationships with students and host families around the world. She accepted a position as EF High School Exchange Year’s Recruitment Team Manager, sparking what would become a six-year love affair with EF.
At <a href="https://www.efexchangeyear.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF High School Exchange Year</a>, Suzi spearheaded major recruitment initiatives. A few years later, she brought her expertise to <a href="https://www.ef.edu/ils/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF’s International Language Campuses</a> around the world, developing a global system for connecting EF to university partners in the U.S. After countless travels around the globe, Suzi decided to make a career move that would keep her closer to home. Last year, she transitioned into a newly created role at <a href="https://www.goaheadtours.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Go Ahead Tours.</a>
“I hire and onboard new staff, while continuing to work with current staff to help them find long and fulfilling careers within EF,” says Suzi. “I also aid in retention by keeping staff connected to the spirit and energy of EF as a company through events we host within Go Ahead.”
Enter the aforementioned dinosaur suit, team bootcamps, company-wide celebrations for milestone achievements, and a newly minted mentorship program, designed by Suzi and her <a href="https://www.goaheadtours.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Go Ahead Tours</a> colleagues to pair senior staff with junior team members.
“Our mentorship program has been a year in the making,” says Suzi. “We recently hosted a ‘speed mentoring’ event to make the pairing process feel more casual and fun. And we’ve structured the program so that mentors and mentees have different opportunities to connect. For instance, we’ve asked mentors to take mentees on at least one off-site meeting or introduce mentees to a team member from another product within EF during a coaching session.”
Suzi hopes these efforts will help to grow and retain great team members, whether they choose to stay at <a href="https://www.goaheadtours.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Go Ahead Tours</a> or explore one of EF’s 17 other divisions. In her new role, Suzi encourages staff to come to her when they’re ready for something new or they’re feeling unsure about what their EF career could look like.
“I almost talk people out of positions if I feel like they are not in the right role, or coach them into something that’s a better fit,” she says. “I make sure people understand that if they grow out of their position, it’s OK. It just might be time for them to try something else, and come back with a new skill that they can bring to the table.”
Suzi and fellow recruitment colleagues now speak regularly about top talent who are looking to switch things up within EF.
“Hiring and keeping good people is one of the most important things we can do,” says Suzi. “I have a great sense of pride for the people who I bring on. How great would it be to look at a series of successful people, and know that, yup, I hired them?”
So, is there a common thread that makes someone the right fit for EF? Suzi thinks so.
“People at EF love to travel, and they’re all are very motivated by what we do,” she says. “No matter what happens, the people who are most successful here appreciate that we all get to do this amazing work.”

Suzi doesn’t just find great hires. She creates initiatives that keep EF’s staff feeling happy and fulfilled—even if that means suiting up as a T-Rex.

Hiring (and keeping) good people: Suzi’s EF journey - We are EF

Hiring (and keeping) good people: Suzi’s EF journey ‹ We are EF

Hiring (and keeping) good people: Suzi’s EF journey

Hiring and keeping good people suzis ef journey

Face masks. Temperature checks. Health risk tracking apps. Socially distanced happy hours. Life isn’t exactly the same as it was before the COVID-19 pandemic, but aside from these new health and safety measures, it feels surprisingly similar at <a href="https://www.ef.com/wwen/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Education First</a> in Shanghai.
While EF’s global offices are slowly reopening and some EF students, teachers, and staff are still hunkering down at home, EF Shanghai is fully open. After lockdown restrictions eased in late February, EFers there began returning to work and resuming the everyday activities they missed most, from weekend brunches to bike rides and gym sessions.
As the first among our EF family to say hello (again) to the world, we wanted to know how they are adjusting to their new normal. How are they staying healthy? What has changed in their day-to-day lives? Do they have any words of wisdom for those of us still at home? We asked three EFers based in Shanghai to share their personal experiences of the coronavirus outbreak in China and reflections on post-quarantine life. This is what they had to say.
<h1>Pampan, Executive Assistant to the CEO & CFO, EF China</h1>
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<h4>“You will get through it. You are more resilient than you know.”</h4>
Seven weeks in London wasn’t exactly what Pampan had in mind when she set off to visit her fiancé for the Chinese New Year holidays. However, as news of the COVID-19 outbreak started sending shockwaves around the world, she decided it was probably best to stay put in the UK. Several canceled flights later, she finally made it back to Shanghai just before China’s borders closed. From there, it was two weeks of solo quarantine spent Marie Kondo-ing her closet and becoming one with her couch. Needless to say, when EF Shanghai finally reopened, she had first-day-of-school-level excitement from “walking back into the office where there are people!”
Most excited for post-quarantine:
“I did terribly in quarantine because I didn’t do anything active. I just became one with laziness – the biggest bum. I was zapped of all energy. As soon as I was allowed out the door, I hopped on my bike and went to the gym. It breathed some life back into me.”
Safety precautions you’re taking:
“China has a lot of measures in place that are heavily enforced — like showing your personal health code upon entry anywhere, wearing masks 24/7 (even at the gym), and having hand sanitizer everywhere. I’m being overly cautious by keeping my time outside my apartment at a minimum.”
Biggest change to your day-to-day life:
“I’ve learned that you can’t count on everything working out for you, so be grateful for what you have and where you are now. It may not be exactly what you wanted or imagined for yourself, but it’s real. Our dreams may all be on hold right now, but they won’t always be. Maybe then, they will be even better, because we want them that much more.”
Advice to people still at home:
”You will get through it. You are more resilient than you know. Whatever challenge comes your way, you can handle it. Whatever we give up now is not lost forever — just on hold. Look forward to that day when you will be able to revive it.”
First place you’ll travel to when it’s safe: 
“London, to see my fiancé again!”
<h1>Joanne, Teacher Welfare Manager, EF Kids & Teens</h1>
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<h4>“I think this experience has helped us be more empathic and understanding of each other.”</h4>
If there was an award for Most Productive Quarantine, Joanne would win. Hands down. The Teacher Welfare Manager not only transitioned into her current role from afar, but she also started teaching English courses using the online platform her EF Kids & Teens colleagues developed for students and teachers during the pandemic. And did we mention she found a new apartment? Because she did that, too. In fact, aside from taking a run outside, moving out of her tiny, 30-square-meter place in Shanghai was at the top of her post-quarantine to-do list: “My lease was up the day after my quarantine finished. Very eventful first day out.”
Most excited for post-quarantine:
“I started a new role during the initial outbreak, so it was great having our first face-to-face meeting with the entire team and a welcome lunch my first day back in the office!”
Biggest change to your day-to-day life:
“Day-to-day life in Shanghai is pretty much back to normal. The office is operating as usual, gyms are open again, and brunch is a weekly occurrence. The biggest difference is needing to wear masks and needing to get my temperature checked before entering places. It’s reassuring to know that measures are still being taken to ensure our ongoing health and safety.”
Differences you notice in your office culture:
“I think this experience has helped us be more empathic and understanding of each other, which hopefully stays with us as we move forward. In addition to the many bottles of hand sanitizer around the office!”
Advice to people still at home:
“Be patient and mindful. If everyone does their part, from wearing a mask to social distancing, we can hopefully all get back to normal in the near future. Stay strong EF!”
First place you’ll travel to when it’s safe:
“Puerto Rico, for my family reunion or Bali for my friend’s wedding!”
<h1>Leanne, International Teacher Recruiter, International Teacher Recruitment</h1>
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<h4>“You’re not falling behind if everyone is also paused.”</h4>
Traveling halfway around the world to become a teacher is never easy. And now, with many classrooms and international borders closed, it’s more challenging than ever. But despite the uncertainty caused by COVID-19, Leanne is there to support and inspire prospective educators through it all. As an International Teacher Recruiter, she’s tasked with finding the best talent to staff 300 schools across 60 cities — a job that never stops, even during quarantine. Now that she’s back in the office and EF schools are slowly reopening, Leanne is optimistic about welcoming her newest recruits in the fall. “Right now, I’m really trying to listen to what people are feeling. We’ve developed a good group of teachers who are still excited to come over, and my focus is getting them ready for their transition and keeping them engaged.”
Favorite EF moment during quarantine:
“Our team’s weekly Zoom meetings. We’d do trivia every meeting and all end up laughing hysterically at something.”
Most excited for post-quarantine:
“The first thing I did post-quarantine was go for a walk, get some local Chinese food, and soak up the blue skies.”
Difference you notice in your office culture:
“I think the culture has changed dramatically. I think everyone is more grateful for our community and support system while being mindful of others and their health and safety at the same time.”
Advice to people still at home:
“My advice is, although it’s tough, stay indoors. Work on all those projects you’ve been procrastinating on for months — or even years. Use this time to improve education or your skills. Try something new. And remember, right now everyone is paused. You’re not falling behind if everyone is also paused.”
First place you’ll travel to when it’s safe:
“The Cayman Islands — I’ve never been, and my parents are planning to move there soon.”

Life isn’t exactly the same, but aside from new health and safety measures, it feels surprisingly similar at EF Education First in Shanghai.

Hello (again) world: EF staff take on post-quarantine life in Shanghai - We are EF

Hello (again) world: EF staff take on post-quarantine life in Shanghai ‹ We are EF

Hello (again) world: EF staff take on post-quarantine life in Shanghai

Hello again shanghai

“I tell women they can have it all—maybe not all at the same time—but it’s totally possible,” says Silvia, mom of three and <a href="https://www.ef.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Education First’s</a> Vice President of Finance and Strategy for <a href="https://www.efultimatebreak.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Ultimate Break</a>. “When I hear others say they can’t start a family right now because their jobs won’t allow for it, I encourage them not to put that off.”
This comes from a woman who gave birth to her first daughter while finishing up two master’s degrees at Harvard University, and who found out she was pregnant again within days of starting at EF. Five years after this discovery, she’s welcomed two more girls into her growing family and received just as many promotions. Silvia fully embraces her identity as a business leader and a mother—and at EF, she’s never felt like she has to choose between the two.
Tell Silvia she can’t do something and watch what happens next. Growing up, her Trinidadian mother encouraged her to be the best at whatever she did. Not the best girl. The best. So, when high school friends told Silvia she wouldn’t get accepted to Stanford University, she replied: “watch me.” The international relations and economics major traded life in small-town Georgia for college on the West Coast.
With dreams of becoming the first female president, Silvia spent her college summers in Washington, D.C., interning at the U.S. Senate and the National Economic Council. After graduating from Stanford, she considered earning a law degree, but ultimately decided to take time off from school and opted to build new skills at a global management consulting firm.
“Everything I had done up until that point was policy focused,” remembers Silvia, who quickly realized her work in the private sector could make an impact in the public realm. When Silvia’s firm was selected to work on a pro bono case for <a href="https://www.gatesfoundation.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the Gates Foundation</a>, an organization dedicated to improving people’s lives in developing countries and the U.S., she volunteered to lead the team. “The Gates Foundation came to us and said, ‘We’re funding a malaria drug, but we don’t know if we can get it to rural villages that need it most. We want you to tell us if we should continue funding it, and if so, how do we get it to people.’”
Using Tanzania and Nigeria as case studies, Silvia and her team investigated multiple angles, speaking to everyone from animal researchers to mining company operators. Eventually, they developed a distribution strategy that would make continued production of the drug possible, potentially saving millions of lives each year.
“I saw the real value creation that happens when the private and public sectors work side by side,” says Silvia. “That’s when I decided to go back to school and earn my MBA and master’s in public policy.” A few days after her wedding, Silvia and her husband made the move from California to the greater Boston area. Two years later, Silvia gave birth to their first daughter, Ruhe, during her final year in graduate school.
“I was the only person in my graduating class who had a kid,” recalls Silvia. “At that point, I realized I had to be very cognizant of my time.” Being the only mom among 900 students came with a lot of pressure, but Silvia made it work. She doubled up on courses before her daughter was born, found babysitters on campus, and visited the university’s nursing room between classes. Her planning paid off, and she finished her program on schedule.
After school, Silvia started pursuing work in the education sector, having witnessed the vast opportunities that earning a degree opened up for family members who immigrated to the U.S. Not long after, she was invited by the EF Recruitment and Employee Development team to discuss possible roles at the company’s Boston headquarters.
“I felt such an energy when I walked in the building for my first interview,” says Silvia. “I met a whole host of super passionate, hardworking people who described cool work opportunities in an industry that was not only fun but had a real positive social impact on the world. I was happy to accept a position right then and there!”
Silvia signed on to spearhead the creation of a global customer loyalty program, working directly with the CEO. Two days into the job, she learned she was pregnant. Feeling nervous and overwhelmed, she spoke to a colleague on the Recruitment and Employee Development team who assured her family always comes first, and that she should break the news to the CEO whenever she felt comfortable and ready. Ten weeks later, Silvia let him in on the news—and she couldn’t have asked for a better reaction.
“He was so thrilled for me,” laughs Silvia. “He excitedly told me about how he just revamped EF’s maternity leave policy, and we sat down on the floor and went through all of it together.” From then on, Silvia knew she had not only found a place where she would be supported and valued as a leader but also as a mother.
“Over my five years with EF, I’ve been in three different roles, met hundreds of really amazing colleagues, traveled to far off lands, and seen firsthand the impact of what we do for our customers,” she says. “I have a true appreciation for what it’s like to work at a company that values life outside of work and made it manageable to be a working mom.”
Today Silvia puts her MBA chops to good use working “cross-functionally with other departments from sales and marketing to product development and operations to help deliver an awesome travel experience for millennials.” Her <a href="https://www.efultimatebreak.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Ultimate Break</a> colleagues respect that she never schedules meetings before 9:30 a.m. (because we all know daycare drop-offs don’t go exactly as planned) and that once a month she’s busy having lunch and “trading war stories” with all of her EF mom friends.
“Mom guilt is a real thing, and I don’t feel it here. EF has done a great job making mothers and families feel welcome with our maternity leave, mother’s room, and kid-friendly events. I’m so grateful that I’ve been able to grow here,” says Silvia, who’s thrilled to announce she’s expecting her fourth child.
For Silvia, discovering a career she loves while continuing to grow her family has been life-changing. “It’s been so rewarding and fun. If you think travel is transformative, try having a kid,” she laughs.

Silvia fully embraces her identity as a business leader and a mother—and at EF, she’s never felt like she has to choose between the two.

Growing in leadership and motherhood: Silvia’s EF journey - We are EF

Growing in leadership and motherhood: Silvia’s EF journey ‹ We are EF

Growing in leadership and motherhood: Silvia’s EF journey

Growing in leadership and motherhood

Photography by Jordan Clark Haggard
Olympian. Cyclist. Jetsetter. Hailing from a cycling family in Boulder, Colorado, <a href="https://www.efprocycling.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">EF Education First Pro Cycling</a> rider Taylor Phinney is the definition of a global leader. Since the age of 18, he’s taken his passion for racing around the world, competing in the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, Giro d’Italia, the Tour de France and more. When he’s not exploring new countries, cultures and racing scenes with the <a href="https://www.ef.edu/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">EF Education First</a> team, he keeps a room in Los Angeles—and after spending time with Taylor in his home-away-from-the-race-circuit, it’s easy to see why.
“LA is a place where you can find anything you want to find,” says Taylor. “Whether that’s a group of people you click with, a certain type of food, or a certain community…there’s something that’s going to connect with you in this town.”
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In LA the opportunities to explore are endless. And going beyond the beaten path can open up possibilities to connect with new people, learn about hidden gems and immerse yourself in new cultural experiences. Within the city’s 500 square miles, there’s always something to discover.
We learned this firsthand while joining Taylor on a joyride through his favorite destinations in the City of Angels (with his <a href="https://www.efexploreamerica.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">EF Explore America</a> backpack in tow, of course). From hidden trail networks to lesser-known shops, follow our daylong LA adventure to see what keeps EFer Taylor coming back to this buzzing metropolis and why you should explore it for yourself.
<hr>
<img alt="Taylor Phinney at Bicycle Coffee Co." class="alignnone wp-image-13851 size-full" height="379" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/02-Taylor-Phinney-Bicycle-Coffee.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/02-Taylor-Phinney-Bicycle-Coffee.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/02-Taylor-Phinney-Bicycle-Coffee-300x200.jpg 300w" width="568">
<img alt="Taylor Phinney at Bicycle Coffee Co." class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13852" height="379" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/03-Taylor-Phinney-Bicycle-Coffee.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/03-Taylor-Phinney-Bicycle-Coffee.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/03-Taylor-Phinney-Bicycle-Coffee-300x200.jpg 300w" width="568">
<h2>Bicycle Coffee Co.</h2>
First stop: <a href="https://www.bicyclecoffeeco.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Bicycle Coffee Co.</a>, a cafe and roaster whose beans are distributed using specially fabricated bikes. Serving up free cold brew and pour overs on Fridays, this Little Tokyo mainstay is perfect for a quick jolt before hitting the trails.
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<img alt="Taylor Phinney in LA" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13853" height="379" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/04-Taylor-Phinney-Cycling-LA.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/04-Taylor-Phinney-Cycling-LA.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/04-Taylor-Phinney-Cycling-LA-300x200.jpg 300w" width="568">
<img alt="Taylor Phinney in LA" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13854" height="379" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/05-Taylor-Phinney-LA-Cycling.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/05-Taylor-Phinney-LA-Cycling.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/05-Taylor-Phinney-LA-Cycling-300x200.jpg 300w" width="568">
<h2>Elysian Park</h2>
Next up: Elysian Park. Located above Dodger Stadium, this park offers a perfect pocket of urban forest laced with ribbons of running and cycling trails. It’s a retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, but the quiet is underscored by the chorus of the nearby police academy.
“Having a bicycle allows you to be able to see parts of the city that you wouldn’t see otherwise,” says Taylor. “You’re riding through an ever-changing visual landscape.”
<hr>
<img alt="Taylor Phinney LA" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13855" height="379" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/06-Taylor-Phinney-Wax-Paper.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/06-Taylor-Phinney-Wax-Paper.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/06-Taylor-Phinney-Wax-Paper-300x200.jpg 300w" width="568">
<img alt="Taylor Phinney LA" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13856" height="379" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/07-Taylor-Phinney-Wax-Paper.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/07-Taylor-Phinney-Wax-Paper.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/07-Taylor-Phinney-Wax-Paper-300x200.jpg 300w" width="568">
<h2>Wax Paper</h2>
Cycling works up an appetite, and Taylor knows the perfect antidote: sandwiches from <a href="https://www.waxpaperco.com/wiches/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Wax Paper</a>. Family owned and operated, this friendly Frogtown outpost offers up fresh, local fare and is easily accessible from the LA River Bike Trail.
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<img alt="Taylor Phinney at Vinny's Barber Shop" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13857" height="379" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/08-Taylor-Phinney-Vinnys.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/08-Taylor-Phinney-Vinnys.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/08-Taylor-Phinney-Vinnys-300x200.jpg 300w" width="568">
<img alt="Taylor Phinney at Vinny's Barber Shop" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13858" height="379" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/09-Taylor-Phinney-Vinnys.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/09-Taylor-Phinney-Vinnys.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/09-Taylor-Phinney-Vinnys-300x200.jpg 300w" width="568">
<h2>Vinny’s Barber Shop</h2>
“No religion. No politics. No phones during service.” That’s the motto at <a href="https://vinnysonvirgil.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Vinny’s</a>, a charming barber shop and a go-to for Taylor where services start at around $20.
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<img alt="Taylor Phinney at Golden Saddle" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13859" height="379" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/10-Taylor-Phinney-Golden-Saddle.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/10-Taylor-Phinney-Golden-Saddle.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/10-Taylor-Phinney-Golden-Saddle-300x200.jpg 300w" width="568">
<img alt="Taylor Phinney at Golden Saddle" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13860" height="379" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/11-Taylor-Phinney-Golden-Saddle.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/11-Taylor-Phinney-Golden-Saddle.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/11-Taylor-Phinney-Golden-Saddle-300x200.jpg 300w" width="568">
<h2>Golden Saddle Cyclery</h2>
A beautiful neighborhood shop that feels nostalgic and progressive at the same time, <a href="https://goldensaddlecyclery.bigcartel.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Golden Saddle</a> is the place to go for expert advice as well as a curated selection of bikes, accessories and apparel for cyclists of all abilities.
“People here are really open to sharing their network of friends and sharing their time with people they don’t even know,” notes Taylor. “LA is a very open and welcoming city.”
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<img alt="Taylor Phinney at Virgil Normal" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13861" height="379" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/12-Taylor-Phinney-Virgil-Normal.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/12-Taylor-Phinney-Virgil-Normal.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/12-Taylor-Phinney-Virgil-Normal-300x200.jpg 300w" width="568">
<img alt="Taylor Phinney at Virgil Normal" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13862" height="379" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/13-Taylor-Phinney-Virgil-Normal.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/13-Taylor-Phinney-Virgil-Normal.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/13-Taylor-Phinney-Virgil-Normal-300x200.jpg 300w" width="568">
<h2>Virgil Normal</h2>
This <a href="https://www.virgilnormal.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Silver Lake boutique</a>, located in an old moped shop, offers a mix of new and vintage menswear, home goods, products and art supplies for “gentlemen of sports and leisure” who live at the intersection of urban sprawl and the great outdoors.
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<img alt="Taylor Phinney in LA" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13863" height="379" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/14-Taylor-Phinney-LA.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/14-Taylor-Phinney-LA.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/14-Taylor-Phinney-LA-300x200.jpg 300w" width="568">
<img alt="Taylor Phinney in LA" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-13864" height="379" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/15-Taylor-Phinney-LA.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/15-Taylor-Phinney-LA.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/15-Taylor-Phinney-LA-300x200.jpg 300w" width="568">
<h2>Griffith Park</h2>
A ride up to the Griffith Park helipad is a fitting close to a full day of exploration. It’s the ideal place to hit pause and watch as the city below makes its stunning transition from watercolor sunset to beaming lights.
“The phrase ‘explore the world’ is a dream,” says Taylor. “To be racing for a team that’s embracing this kind of a mantra is super special and I’m really grateful to be involved.”
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Follow Taylor’s route through LA
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Beyond exploring the world as a rider with EF Education First Pro Cycling, Taylor keeps a room in LA. Join him on a joyride to his favorite LA destinations.

When Taylor's not exploring with EF Education First, he keeps a room in Los Angeles. Follow him on a daylong joy ride through the city to see why.

Exploring LA with EF pro cyclist Taylor Phinney - We are EF

Exploring LA with EF pro cyclist Taylor Phinney ‹ We are EF

Exploring LA with EF pro cyclist Taylor Phinney

Explore la with taylor phinney

Here at <a href="https://www.ef.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Education First</a>, we’re passionate about moving around the world. Whether it’s for a short time or for good, many of our staff live away from their home countries. Exchanging cultural customs is part of our DNA, and EFers across the globe love to share their favorite traditions from home—during the holidays and every day.
So as the year comes to a close and our holiday spirit is in full swing, we’re celebrating in true EF style: by highlighting how our EF staff bring their most-cherished (and sometimes quirky!) traditions to new destinations.
<h2>Ansan, South Korea → EF Hong Kong</h2>
Soohyun, Digital Advertising Manager
I grew up southwest of Seoul in Ansan, South Korea, where I loved Korean Lunar New Year. To celebrate, many Koreans visit family, perform ancestral rites, wear hanbok (Korean traditional dress), eat traditional food and play folk games. Another perk–children often receive money from elders for performing a formal bow. Living away from home, I’ve come to appreciate how EF respects and embraces all cultures and holidays. Knowing your colleagues’ cultural backgrounds and how to celebrate with them has led to many priceless experiences for me at EF.
<h2>Barcelona → EF Denver</h2>
Alex, Tour Consultant, EF Educational Tours
I’m originally from Barcelona. In the northeast region of Spain, we celebrate Christmas with “Caga Tio,” a wooden log with a smiley face painted onto one end. The log is basically the Catalan equivalent of Santa Claus. From December 8 up to Christmas Eve, kids look after the log, covering it with a blanket to keep it warm and feeding it every evening. The more they feed it, the more presents it will produce. On Christmas Day, they sing a song and hit the log with a stick to coax out the presents. I built a Caga Tio that I bring to the Denver office every year so I can share this weird tradition with my EF colleagues.
<h2>Vietnam → Russia → EF Toronto</h2>
Kristie, Business Analyst, EF Educational Tours
I was born in Vietnam but raised in Russia. Growing up I enjoyed celebrating Lunar New Year. Last year I couldn’t make it home for the holiday, so EF gave me a chance to plan a Lunar New Year event in the office. We decorated the lobby with red envelopes stuffed with New Year wishes, gave people their zodiac stickers and respective horoscopes, served some traditional goodies, and held a dog photo contest in honor of the Year of the Dog. That day filled my heart with joy since I had a chance to share a piece of my culture with my coworkers.
<h2>Vancouver → EF Shanghai</h2>
LeAnna, International Recruiter
I grew up in a small logging town on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. I always do something extra special around Ukrainian Christmas. I make traditional food for my family—usually pyrohy (boiled dumplings) and borscht (sour soup)—that I learned to make from my mum and grandma. For Advent, we use local greenery to make a wreath and put four candles in it. As each Sunday passes, we increase the number of candles we light. In Shanghai, I was happy to see how slowly the Christmas decorations come up compared to back home. Just like my family slowly lights candles toward Christmas, it feels like the city is slowly building toward all the different winter holidays.
<h2>The Netherlands → EF Zurich</h2>
Louise, Recruitment Manager, EF Recruitment & Employee Development
I grew up on a farm in The Netherlands close to Amsterdam. On Sinterklaas (December 5), we spend an evening exchanging gifts with loved ones. Almost every gift contains a rhyme in which we talk about things that happened that year. We can say just about anything in those rhymes, so most of the time they’re a bit embarrassing. It’s our way of reliving memories while having fun. Now I bring little gifts with rhymes for my colleagues as well as some typical sweets from home. I also arrange an outing to the Christmas markets on December 5 with my Dutch colleagues. I think it creates a bond between the people who know the traditions.
<h2>Panama City Beach, FL → EF Shanghai</h2>
Keith, Teacher, EF Kids Online
I was raised in the U.S. and consider myself a traditional “southerner.” In my family, Christmas Eve was always the day to open gifts and Christmas morning was the time to see what Santa put in your stocking. After a huge meal with all the fixings we would enjoy football in the yard and on television. My favorite Christmas dish was always sweet potato casserole with marshmallows on top. At EF, we did a holiday potluck at work, and I really enjoyed all the different dishes from Korea, England, South Africa and the United States. I even made my own sweet potato casserole which was a big hit!
<h2>Derby, England → EF Shanghai</h2>
Meggy, Online Trainer, EF English Courses
My cultural background is Cantonese, Vietnamese and British. On Christmas Day my family traditionally cooks a full roast dinner. We wear our pajamas the whole day, exchange gifts, watch movies and play games. Now that I’m in Shanghai I celebrate by eating with my Shanghainese friends who feel like family. I try to emulate my favorite Christmas experiences from home and share them with my Chinese and international friends.
<h2>Moscow → EF Zurich</h2>
Lisa, Senior Project Director, EF International Language Campuses
In Russia, we celebrate many of the same holidays we do in Zurich, but sometimes on different days because of the calendar shift that happened after the Revolution of 1917. For example, our Christmas is January 7 and we have a holiday called Old New Year on January 13. Since moving to Zurich, I’ve started celebrating with an adventskranz (wreath with four candles inside), which I learned how to create myself and have proudly displayed on my dining table the past two years. I also love visiting the local Christmas markets, where you can have hot glühwein (mulled wine) and lots of raclette (a type of melted cheese).
<h2>Budapest → EF Zurich</h2>
Gabor, System Support Manager, EF Language Technology
My home country and my new home country share mostly the same religious holidays. I have not learned everything about the Swiss traditions yet so I like to mix in the ways we celebrate in Hungary. For example, I love to prepare traditional Hungarian dishes, and on Christmas Eve my brothers and I spend the afternoon decorating the tree together with ornaments we created as children. In Budapest, there’s a New Year’s Eve horse race I’ve been attending for years now. It’s a great way to kick off the evening and get together with friends.
<h2>Moultonborough, NH → EF Shanghai</h2>
Hannah-Rose, Global Operations Director, EF English Courses
Every year, my extended family holds a “Yankee Swap” gift exchange and some of my favorite holiday memories relate to funny gifts that were passed around and stolen (a Bloomin’ Onion machine and a jar of pickles come to mind). This year, my friends in Shanghai and I are planning a Yankee Swap for January. Many people are traveling to their home countries or for vacation in December, so we decided to bring back gifts from our holiday travels to share. I’ve actually been surprised to see how much my own holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.) are celebrated here in Shanghai. Of course, there are also fun new holidays to celebrate, like Chinese New Year. I’m excited to celebrate the tradition of making hundreds of dumplings for Chinese New Year this year.
<h2>Annecy, France → EF Hong Kong</h2>
Laurent, Sales Manager, EF International Language Campuses
Living abroad forces you to create a new family: your friends. Taking time with the people who matter most and eating good food that reminds me of home is how I like to celebrate. One French tradition I like to share with my friends is called the “Epiphany.” It happens on the first Sunday of January and consists of eating a galette des rois (a flat cake filled with frangipane). Following tradition, we hide a small figurine in the cake and whoever gets it in their slice is crowned “king.”
<h2>New York City → EF Hong Kong</h2>
William, Multimedia Marketing Manager, EF Creative Studio
For me, it wouldn’t be the holidays without some salsa music, dancing and coquito–a Puerto Rican holiday drink some people call Puerto Rican eggnog (but trust me, it is SO much better). It’s a cinnamon- and coconut-flavored drink with rum. I love sharing it with others during the holidays and watching their faces when they try it. They almost always love it! I was already proud to be Puerto Rican, but living abroad has taught me to share my culture with even more pride. I might not always have family around, but having a glass (or three) of coquito and blasting some salsa reminds me that “home” can be anywhere.
<h2>Manchester, England → EF Zurich</h2>
Danny, Copywriter & Content Manager, EF International Language Campuses
The best holiday tradition we uphold in our family is hanging stockings on our bedroom doors which we fill with small gifts on Christmas Day. Even as an adult I still get incredibly excited by this little sock. Last year, I received a Lego keyring, a pair of Happy Socks (socks in a sock!) and a bottle of beard oil. Now that I’m in Switzerland where everyone goes skiing I want to incorporate that into my celebrations, too.
<h2>Johannesburg, South Africa → EF Shanghai</h2>
Kylie, Marketing Associate, EF English First
Christmas was the most celebrated holiday in our household. Even though December is summertime in Johannesburg and most of our holiday season was spent by the beach, we still had a very traditional European-style Christmas. Turkey, Christmas pudding, brandy custard and roasted cinnamon pumpkin were served for Christmas lunch or dinner, followed by a trip to the beach or a swim in the pool. Barbecuing the turkey instead of roasting it in the oven is very South African. Now my traditions include swapping the Christmas tree with a poinsettia, lighting lots of candles to brighten up my apartment and walking up city streets decorated with bright Christmas lights.

This holiday season we’re celebrating in EF style: by highlighting how we bring our most-cherished (and sometimes quirky!) traditions to new destinations.

Sharing traditions: How 14 EFers celebrate the holidays - We are EF

Sharing traditions: How 14 EFers celebrate the holidays ‹ We are EF

Sharing traditions: How 14 EFers celebrate the holidays

Ef staff share holiday traditions

What do visionaries, philanthropists and entrepreneurs have in common? They were all students once.
At <a href="https://www.ef.edu/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">EF Education First</a>, we believe every learner has the potential to change the world—but first, they need to experience it. For more than five decades, we’ve partnered with educators to translate this vision into meaningful international opportunities. And together, we’ve turned the world into a classroom for millions of students, inspiring the kind of global mindset our future depends on. On February 8, 2019, in the presence of more than 850 U.S. leaders and public education supporters, EF was honored to be recognized by the <a href="https://www.neafoundation.org/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NEA Foundation</a> for our contributions to public education and global learning.
Following in the footsteps of educational game-changers, including former President Bill Clinton, Mister Fred Rogers, Billie Jean King and Sesame Street Workshops, EF was named the 2019 recipient of the NEA Foundation’s highest honor—The First National Bank of Omaha Award for Outstanding Service to Public Education. The award was presented at the Foundation’s annual <a href="https://www.neafoundation.org/for-educators/awards-gala/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Salute to Excellence in Education Gala</a> in Washington, D.C. Among the evening’s fellow honorees were 46 of America’s most dedicated public school educators, who were nominated by their peers for teaching excellence.
“We are honored to accept this award tonight on behalf of our 52,000 EF colleagues working from our 600 schools and offices in over 100 countries,” said EF Foundation for Foreign Study Chairman Goran Rannefors in his acceptance speech. “Thank you to the NEA Foundation for this wonderful honor, and thank you to every educator in the room and across the country who keep global learning front-of-mind. After all, everyone in this room knows that among the most effective ways to have a positive impact on kids’ lives is through their educators…It is a privilege to partner with many of you every year to inspire curiosity in your students by encouraging them to explore the world.”
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yMl91L_cS98" width="560"></iframe>
For the past eight years, EF has been proud to partner with the NEA Foundation, one of the nation’s foremost public charities and champions for improved public education. In collaboration with the Foundation’s <a href="https://www.neafoundation.org/for-educators/global-learning-fellowship/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Global Learning Fellowship Program</a>, we’ve developed international field-study experiences for K-12 public school educators seeking to bring more of the world into their U.S. classrooms. Since 2011, we’ve sent more than 100 NEA Foundation Fellows on professional development tours to China, Brazil, Peru and South Africa. As part of their travels, the teachers participate in service-learning activities at local schools, businesses and nonprofits. One such nonprofit, <a href="https://www.peruschallenge.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Peru’s Challenge</a>, will benefit from a $5,000 charitable donation made by the NEA Foundation on behalf of EF.
“Peru’s Challenge focuses on supporting public education in underserved communities in the Andes mountains outside Cusco,” explained Rannefors in his speech. “NEA Foundation Fellows have personally visited schools and met with educators there, helped with a construction project, as well as funded and stocked a local public school library. We are honored to donate this prize money to Peru’s Challenge, which will use the award to further the reach of public education in their communities.”
EF plans to send NEA Fellows back to Peru in 2020, where a new cohort of public school educators will have the opportunity to experience the nonprofit in action.
“We at EF are incredibly energized by this partnership since it illustrates a larger trend we’re seeing–of teachers, administrators and visionary leaders in education embracing global learning and making it a priority in their communities,” continued Rannefors. “Our work and our mission of opening the world through education feel incredibly relevant right now. It’s work that we hope makes the world a little better.”

EF is honored to be recognized by the NEA Foundation for our commitment to advancing global learning in public education.

EF was honored to be recognized by the NEA Foundation for our commitment to advancing global learning in public education.

EF receives NEA Foundation’s highest honor for ‘advancing global learning’ - We are EF

EF receives NEA Foundation’s highest honor for ‘advancing global learning’ ‹ We are EF

EF receives NEA Foundation’s highest honor for ‘advancing global learning’

Ef receives nea foundation award

“My job is to make people fall in love with us the second they meet us online,” declares Marcus, <a href="https://www.ef.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Education First’s</a> Executive Creative Director. For this world traveler and former student of philosophy, cognitive science, and AI, the roadmap to transforming EF into one of the world’s top brands is clear. And it starts with humanizing our digital presence.
“We should be clear in all of our brand’s digital interactions,” explains Marcus, a digital agency veteran, who brings both left-brained logic and right-brained creativity to his work. “As the world’s largest provider of international education, we need to show that we’re always here for you and with you.”
Growing up in the coastal village of Helsingborg, Sweden, Marcus knew EF as a company with a big presence in his home country. However, it wasn’t until after stints of living in Spain and Austria, when he was working for a Stockholm-based experience design agency hired by EF, that he understood the company’s global impact and brand potential.
“I was really quite impressed,” Marcus recalls of his first meeting with EF’s creative team in London. “I walked away with a different picture of EF. The company had the drive to become a powerful and well-known brand—a brand on the same level as Apple or Nike.”
Years later, Marcus was recruited to spearhead the digital division of EF’s central creative team in Lucerne, Switzerland. He accepted the challenge, and he hasn’t looked back since.
“I’m heading up a design team on a mission to help EF’s business divisions figure out how to maximize the impact of every digital touch point,” says Marcus, who has spent the majority of his career designing products and experiences, ranging from websites and apps to games and virtual reality simulations. “Our brand should feel modern, relevant, and aspirational—no matter where customers meet us in their digital journeys.”
Alongside his team of visual and user experience designers and front-end and back-end developers, Marcus is finding new ways to shape EF’s digital future. He’s working with teams around the world to create tools that help students learn, make travelers feel at ease, and inspire people to engage with the EF brand.

“Every day at EF, we’re sending digital natives abroad. Our product offerings are largely for young people, and they expect a high level of digital interaction,” says Marcus. “Traditionally, we’ve been focused offline. That’s the heritage of our brand. Now we’re working to establish our future.”
Recent projects have ranged from a global EF design guide to character development for a digital learning platform in China to an online portal tailored to students in Finland. But no matter what product team he’s working with or what problem he’s trying to solve, Marcus approaches each project with EF’s core values in mind.
“We move people closer together and farther away from their comfort zones,” he says of the brand essence that ties together EF’s 17 divisions, which span <a href="https://www.ef.edu/#tile-exchange" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cultural exchange,</a> <a href="https://www.ef.edu/#tile-tour-st-tour" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">travel</a> and <a href="https://www.ef.edu/#tile-tour-st-lang/abroad" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">language learning</a>. “We’re empowering people to get outside of what they know, whether it’s in terms of language, culture, or place. This requires bravery. We’re asking a lot of them, but they’re getting a lot back.”
Marcus’ vision for EF’s digital brand rests on a foundation of human-focused design. According to him, all of our digital experiences should diminish confusion and establish trust. For Marcus, building trust is especially key. Our products ask customers to take big risks. We aim to make every customer feel supported along the way.
“We should always be human-centric,” says Marcus, who’s looking forward to exploring ways technology can help EF staffers become more connected to our customers. Starting from here, Marcus sees boundless potential, not only for technological innovation but also for telling authentic stories.
“The whole world is our canvas,” he says. “At the end of the day, we’re all helping people create stories and break down barriers. We’re about global ideas. That’s the future. And I can’t see any other future possible.”

For Marcus, the roadmap to transforming EF into one of the world’s top brands is clear. And it starts with humanizing our digital presence.

Designing our digital future: Marcus’ EF journey - We are EF

Designing our digital future: Marcus’ EF journey ‹ We are EF

Designing our digital future: Marcus’ EF journey

Designing our digital future marcus ef journey

Sweating on the job is a good thing, as far as Charley is concerned. As a lifelong athlete, he’s made a career of continually pushing himself to do and achieve more—whether at the gym or in the office. As the Director of Supply Chain and Logistics at EF Education First in Boston, he’s channeled his can-do spirit into creating a role focused on developing synergy among EF’s global divisions. And when he’s not busy finding smarter, faster and more streamlined ways of doing business, you’ll find him at EF’s fitness studio, leading classes that bring EFers together to burn calories and make new connections. We sat down with Charley to learn more about what keeps him motivated to pursue new goals—at work and in his workouts—while inspiring others to do the same.
<h1>What led you to EF?</h1>
After building a career in the shipping and freight industry in New Jersey, I relocated to Massachusetts to be closer to my wife’s family. Through an outside agency, I discovered an open position for a fulfillment and operations role within EF Educational Tours. I jumped at the opportunity, and 15 minutes into my first interview, I knew I had to work at EF.
Hearing my future manager talk about the entrepreneurial spirit throughout EF was the biggest hook. It was exciting to think my ideas would not only be heard, but that I would also be able to implement, drive and track effectiveness of the changes I made.
<h1>How have you been able to drive change so far?</h1>
Throughout the course of several global projects and talking with other offices, I realized EF had a need in the area of shipping and logistics. Once I identified this, I had full support from senior managers to create a role for myself that focused on global logistics.
In my role as Director of Supply Chain and Logistics, I’m able to leverage our vendor relationships across multiple countries to realize efficiencies and accomplish goals for EF’s 17 business divisions. With a background in international shipping, I’m also a resource for EF products when they encounter issues with vendors, shipping and customs clearance. My goal is to have our vendors view EF as one large company, while still allowing our individual products to make their own business decisions.
<h1>How has EF supported you in your other passion: fitness?</h1>
Fitness and exercise have been interests of mine since I was 16 years old. When I came to EF, I found a community of staff who also liked to be active. We started working out together during lunch at the playground in nearby North Point Park. Our outdoor fitness classes started as a grassroots movement that quickly gained momentum—and others at EF started noticing. Once we had the opportunity to make things ‘official’ with our onsite fitness studio, I jumped at the chance to help out.
There’s a prevailing thought that happy employees are not only strong of mind, but also of body. I feel lucky to be an instructor at EF’s fitness studio, because I think it’s incredible that EF is able to offer employees free classes at multiple times throughout the day. In addition to teaching, I’m also involved in EF’s Running Club and trained for last summer’s EF Backyard Run relay race.
<h1>Tell us about the fitness classes you teach—what was your inspiration?</h1>
I teach two classes: Weekend Eraser on Mondays, and Weekend Kickstarter on Fridays. The idea is to bookend the week with activity that nets positive fitness results, regardless of what happens over the weekend. Kickstart it, then erase it. Get it?
The classes are built on weight training principles, but instead of taking a rest in between sets, you kick up your metabolism by performing a cardio movement. I find it to be one of the most effective routines I’ve ever done since I started working out. Both classes are usually 40-45 minutes long, which allows employees time to shower, grab a bite and get back to work.
<h1>How has becoming an EF fitness instructor impacted your career?</h1>
I’ve discovered I really like helping people, especially in the judgement-free environment we cultivate at EF. The biggest thing I hear from people who’ve never taken a class before is, ‘I can’t do that. Everyone here knows what they’re doing.’ I love being able to jump in and help someone who’s never worked out before, while still finding a balance that’s challenging for everyone in the class. I’ve also found our fitness classes are a great networking tool. I love connecting with new colleagues from around the globe. It’s inspiring to see how we all share a common thread in our approach to the world and EF’s mission of opening the world through education.
<h1>Where’s your favorite place to work out in the greater Boston area (beyond EF)?</h1>
The Middlesex Fells Reservation. It’s beautiful and great for trail running or hiking. If I’m training for a race, I’ll typically go four to five times a week at 4:30 or 5:30 a.m. It feels great to accomplish a goal and then watch the sun come up. Sometimes you can even see the hummingbirds at that time of day.
<h1>Any advice for those thinking about trying something new—at work or in the gym?</h1>
EF has broadened my horizons and given me hope that anything is possible. Today my advice to others is simply, just do it. Rip off the Band-Aid. You won’t be disappointed. And if you need an accountability buddy, I’m here. The offer always stands.

Charley is the Director of Supply Chain and Logistics at EF and a lifelong athlete. He's made a career of pushing himself—at the gym and in the office.

Charley is the Director of Supply Chain and Logistics at EF and a lifelong athlete. Learn how he's made a career of pushing himself—at the gym and in the office.

Delivering results: Charley’s EF journey - We are EF

Delivering results: Charley’s EF journey ‹ We are EF

Delivering results: Charley’s EF journey

Delivering results charleys ef journey

It’s really no surprise that Micaela ended up working at <a href="https://www.ef.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Education First</a>. Travel is in her blood. From a young age, the Colorado native discovered the world alongside father Curt, former Director of International Relations for the United States Olympic Committee.
“My dad definitely gave me the travel bug,” laughs the Furman University graduate. “We’ve traveled together all over the world, taking students on trips to World Cup matches and Olympic games.” From cheering on Olympic athletes in London to studying abroad in Edinburgh, Micaela has always been one to say “yes” to new travel experiences. In fact, it was an unshakeable itch to discover a different city that led her to EF.
“I randomly moved to Boston after my junior year of college,” recalls Micaela. “I just wanted an excuse to live there.” Without realizing it, Micaela turned this new adventure into a career-defining summer. She quickly landed a job recruiting families to host exchange students in Boston’s North Shore. After her senior year of college, her former manager invited her to lead summer activities for students ages 8 to 18 at <a href="https://www.ef.edu/academy/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF’s international boarding school in New York, EF Academy</a>. As challenging as this job was, Micaela grew a lot, both personally and professionally. And afterward, she knew without a doubt that she and EF were meant to be.
“I knew EF was the right fit for me because of my first boss,” recalls Micaela. “During the two summers I worked for him, he was always willing to listen to my ideas and help me turn them into realities. I loved all of the EF people I worked with. Everyone had a strong work ethic and was so high energy.”
Now back in EF’s Boston office, Micaela continues to draw from the experience and relationships she developed as a Student Activities Leader in New York. Using her eye for detail, penchant for planning, and people skills, today she plays a huge role in making sure that each and every <a href="https://www.efultimatebreak.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Ultimate Break trip</a> goes off without a hitch. As a Customer Account Specialist, she’s the link that binds the operations team, Tour Directors, and all of the 18- to 29-year-old travelers who choose EF Ultimate Break to go out and discover the world.
“I’m in charge of balance management for Ultimate Break. I also work with all of our Tour Directors around the globe, providing them with their pre-tour reports and supporting them while on tour,” says Micaela. And when she’s not busy with all of that, she’s working with colleagues to improve tour processes and develop new initiatives, like EF Ultimate Break’s Greeks to Greece program.
“Greeks to Greece is a group travel experience that brings students in fraternities and sororities to where the traditions began,” says Micaela. “As someone who was involved in Greek life, I was really interested in working on this project.” Thanks to Micaela and her colleagues’ efforts, the first Greeks to Greece trip took off to great success in 2018. And with many more students signed up for the 2019 departure, its future is looking bright.
But this isn’t the only way Micaela is shaping the future of Ultimate Break. Recently, she traveled to Lisbon, Portugal to meet the Tour Directors she communicates with on a daily basis. Together, they collaborated to tackle current challenges and come up with creative solutions.
“I work with all of the Tour Directors for our product, and so to meet the majority of them in person was a great experience,” reflects Micaela. “I presented in front of about 60 of them and got to discuss ideas we all had for improving the business, some of which we have acted on in the past few months.”
Both at work and in life, Micaela remains an avid adventurer. Whether she’s running a marathon in Honolulu or singing center stage during the EF’s Got Talent Competition, she’s always pushing forward, a quality she credits to her years at EF.
“Working at EF has made me a much more worldly person,” says Micaela. “Speaking and working with people from around the world each day has opened my eyes even more to what EF is all about: opening the world through education. I think that is so important, and being reminded of it each day at work is something I am both grateful for and proud of.”

It’s really no surprise that Micaela ended up working at EF Education First. Travel is in her blood. "My dad definitely gave me the travel bug,” she laughs.

Choosing adventure, at work and in life: Micaela’s EF journey - We are EF

Choosing adventure, at work and in life: Micaela’s EF journey ‹ We are EF

Choosing adventure, at work and in life: Micaela’s EF journey

Choosing adventure work life micaelas ef journey

When Heather arrived at <a href="https://www.ef.edu/academy/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Academy’</a>s global headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland, she had a mission. Her first 365 days on the job would be focused on achieving one important goal: finding new and powerful ways to share the EF Academy story with the world.
“As Brand Director, my role is to tell the EF Academy story. I’m responsible for defining brand guidelines and setting our voice and visual tone,” says Heather, a Pennsylvania native and self-described “storyteller at heart.”
With initial dreams of becoming a journalist, Heather worked in newsrooms before starting her career as a communications consultant. Early on, she discovered she was passionate about work in the educational sphere, and as a “young 20-something who was keen on living abroad,” she was determined to launch a career in international education. “I love being surrounded by diversity and working in an international environment, because it broadens the depth of my work and my own perspectives,” says Heather.
After a lot of networking, she landed a marketing communications job at Franklin University in Switzerland, and said “auf wiedersehen” to life in the United States. At Franklin, Heather grew to love expat life and the opportunities it presented for swapping stories with colleagues, students, and staff from all over the globe. During the university’s rebranding, she played a pivotal role in shaping the Franklin story, an experience that not only pushed her to realize her talent for brand work, but also opened the door to her current position at <a href="https://www.ef.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Education First</a>.
<h2>Defining the EF Academy Brand</h2>
“I was excited to join EF Academy, to build its brand and reinforce its mission to open a future without borders,” she says. In her role as Brand Director, Heather set out to unify EF Academy’s three international boarding schools in the U.S. and U.K. under a shared brand voice and vision. That meant gaining an up-close understanding of the EF Academy experience from the perspectives of leadership, staff, teachers, families, and most importantly—students.
EF Academy students come from all over the world, representing approximately 75 nationalities and speaking nearly 20 languages. But according to Heather, there’s one important quality they all have in common. “EF Academy students are so cool,” says Heather. “They’re such impressive, ambitious young people who want to make an impact in the world. They’re open-minded. They’re inclusive of all cultures. Difference is embraced here.”
In order to show the world what EF Academy is made of, Heather knew she needed to highlight the differences that bond its students. So, she traveled from Europe to the UK and the US, interviewing communities, holding focus groups, performing market research, and working with her team in Zurich to distill EF Academy’s key differentiators into its brand personality.
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<h2>Taking a ‘People-Focused’ Approach</h2>
“Having the opportunity to visit our campuses and interact with the communities has been essential for me to hone in on our brand essence and build content that best showcases our schools. We now describe our brand as curious, personal, and transformative. Those three elements are what set us apart, but the personal part is what really stands out for me,” says Heather.
Personalization has guided Heather’s content building strategy, as seen throughout the academy’s recently refreshed website, print materials, and videos. Within her first year at EF, Heather developed a suite of what she calls “people-focused communications” that leverage student voices to tell the EF Academy story with power and authenticity.
“I really enjoy finding, crafting and telling the stories of our people¬. They are the voice of our brand,” reflects Heather. “I’m proud to have created a new series of class trailers and student testimonials that aim to give our prospective families a better view into what it’s like to study at EF Academy.”
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Bringing the EF Academy brand to life in two new video series was the highlight of Heather’s career at EF so far. According to Heather, these stories were not only fun to produce, but they also validated what she already knew: an EF Academy education changes lives. As she continues to define the academy’s brand, she remembers why its schools were established: to bring young people together to build a better future.
“Education is one of the most important components of our society. An international education offers knowledge of the world around us, breaks down misconceptions, and builds bridges of understanding,” says Heather. “Our students are inspiring and I’m excited to see what difference they will make in the world.”

When heather arrived at EF Academy in Zurich, she had a mission: find new and powerful ways to share the EF Academy story with the world.

Building brand stories with heart: Heather’s EF journey - We are EF

Building brand stories with heart: Heather’s EF journey ‹ We are EF

Building brand stories with heart: Heather’s EF journey

Building brand stories with heart heathers ef journey

Ever have one of those I-can’t-believe-this-is-really-my-job moments? Brigid, Director of Sales for <a href="https://www.efcollegestudytours.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF College Study Tours</a> in Boston, Massachusetts, has had quite a few of these during her five years with EF Education First, but one experience stands out above the rest.
“When I first started at EF, I thought ‘this place is not real,’ and I still have those moments,” laughs Brigid. “I’ve been able to travel to places I literally never thought I would go. I’ll always remember the day that I snorkeled for the first time in the Galápagos Islands and saw sea turtles and sea lions up close.”
On this particular EF adventure, the Connecticut native joined a group of college students as they explored the flora and fauna of the remote archipelago, located more than 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. During this study abroad experience, the group stopped at key sites where the study of evolutionary biology began, including the historic home of the one-and-only Charles Darwin.
“Two students on the trip actually had different Darwin tattoos,” recalls Brigid. “So when we went to the Darwin Foundation, they thought it was the coolest thing ever. It was awesome to witness their enthusiasm as they watched the things they’ve studied for so long come to life—it brought a whole new dimension to the trip.”
Seeing firsthand how the power of studying abroad can transform students’ lives is what keeps Brigid connected to the work she does every day. Brigid, who studied education at the University of Connecticut, helps EF College Study Tours send students on life-changing adventures by working with university staff, professors, and deans to create short-term study abroad programs. In her role as Director of Sales, she also works one-on-one with team members to help them achieve their own career aspirations.
“I’m super motivated by team dynamics, and creating cohesiveness and harmony within a team environment,” says Brigid. “One of my strengths is my antenna. When I’m training team members, I’m able to zone into what motivates them as an individual. It’s one of the few benefits of growing up as a middle child.”
From a young age, Brigid says she was attuned to the needs of her siblings and took responsibility for helping them to communicate and advocate for themselves—a trait that she feels distinguishes her leadership style today.
“I’m really proud of having a huge impact on my teammates,” reflects Brigid. “I want them to know that I’ve been exactly where they are. I’m passionate about working with them to figure out what they want their careers at EF to look like and helping them take steps to achieve that.”
During her time at EF, Brigid has moved her career forward year after year, transitioning from Sales Trainer all the way to her current role as Director of Sales. Her secret to success? Raising her hand when a new opportunity arises and being prepared to roll up her sleeves and do the work.
“In the five years I’ve worked here, there have been opportunities I’ve raised my hand for, and also ones that have been given to me through hard work,” Brigid recalls. “I’ve been able to participate in orientations abroad, give presentations, meet so many customers—the list goes on.”
Through the work she does every day, whether it’s providing individual training and mentorship or developing new team-building exercises, Brigid urges her staff to remain focused on their mission and remember the reasons they chose EF.
“When you provide travel, you’re challenging people to be uncomfortable in the very best way—ways that will forever improve their lives,” she says. “For students, having a simple exchange with someone who speaks a different language can make all the difference. In my own experience, traveling with EF has opened me to see the world from new perspectives. It’s made me more empathetic and helped me become a better leader.”

Ever have one of those I-can’t-believe-this-is-really-my-job moments? Brigid, Director of Sales for EF College Study Tours, has had quite a few of these.

Bringing out the best in others: Brigid’s EF journey - We are EF

Bringing out the best in others: Brigid’s EF journey ‹ We are EF

Bringing out the best in others: Brigid’s EF journey

Bringing out the best in others brigids ef journey

Ardie isn’t afraid of uncertainty. Quite the opposite, actually. When the opportunity arises to create something from nothing (or to get “scrappy,” as Ardie likes to say), that’s when this <a href="https://www.ef.edu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Education First </a>Associate Director of Operations does his best work. It’s why he won the EF Core Value Award for Entrepreneurial Spirit, and the reason he’s been able to forge his own path to career success at EF.
“I knew EF was the right fit for me because of how they treat their people,” says Ardie, who hails from Worcester, Massachusetts and started his career as a Tour Consultant at <a href="https://www.efexploreamerica.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF Explore America</a>, helping educators take students on tours throughout the U.S. and Canada. The new role was a big transition from Ardie’s previous life in the Boston restaurant industry, and although it was an entry-level position, he saw huge potential.
He explains, “On top of creating a fantastic workspace and culture, EF encourages you to step up and take ownership of any and everything you do. It’s a place where you can grab your career by the horns and ride it anywhere around the world.”
And that’s exactly what Ardie has done. In his early days as a Tour Consultant, he was primarily responsible for sales and customer service. But he also stepped back to observe the bigger picture. Without anyone asking, he took note of how he could better serve customers, improve internal communication, and create more efficient sales processes. This self-initiative opened the door to a new role created just for him and his unique skill set.
“The opportunity that had the most impact on my career was transitioning from a sales role to an operations role,” reflects Ardie. “While it might be a small change on paper, this transition helped propel my career to where it is today. It put me outside of my comfort zone, helped me learn new things, and made me invested in my work in a way I didn’t think was possible.”
Today, Ardie manages a team of Tour Experience Managers and Regional Product Managers responsible for creating dynamic tour itineraries and experiences. Ardie says he spends about half of his time establishing an operations roadmap for EF Explore America and the other half ensuring that his team and his suppliers are executing on those plans—all while keeping customers happy. Creative problem solving and collaboration are key to success, and luckily for his team, those are two areas where Ardie excels.
“I love thinking about work efficiency,” says Ardie, who studied business management and economics at Emmanuel College. “I’m always assessing how well we’re doing, and figuring out ways to help my team do an even better job than they’ve done before. I’m most excited when I’m able to contribute new ideas and create opportunities for others.”
Aside from the job’s many travel perks—which have brought him to exciting places like Australia, New Orleans, Louisiana, and most recently to Berlin for <a href="https://www.eftours.com/educational-tours/collections/student-summits" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EF’s Global Student Leadership Summit</a>—Ardie’s favorite part of his job remains the people.
“The best part of my job is being able to work with all the different people involved in making our tours come to life,” he says, “whether it’s our Tour Consultants who work directly with our Group Leaders or Business Analysts who create innovative tools to improve how we interact with our suppliers.”
Outside of work, Ardie loves to cook—a craft he mastered during his days as a cook and restaurant manager in Boston’s North End and Mission Hill neighborhoods. Just as he enjoys perfecting EF’s business processes, he finds excitement in fine-tuning recipes for his own hot sauces and soups. His favorite thing to make? Chikhirtma—a lemon chicken soup native to the country of Georgia.
“I love the complexities,” explains Ardie. “How adding or subtracting one ingredient in the process can create an entirely new and dynamic flavor.” One thing’s for sure: In work and in life, navigating complexity comes naturally to Ardie. And he appreciates EF for giving him the space to keep growing his strengths and creating his own path.
“Working at EF has changed me in too many ways to count,” he says. “EF created an environment for me to be challenged, thrive, and figure out what I want to do with my life, in and outside of work.”

Ardie isn’t afraid of uncertainty. When the opportunity arises to create something from nothing, that’s when he does his best work.

Lauren Shiraka

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