Life @ Kaplan: An interview with Charles, from the classroom to the office

Charles, 29, from Brazil came to study at our Kaplan Covent Garden school to enhance his English skills and improve his life experience. His Kaplan Experience continued after graduating when he joined the Marketing team in London!

We asked Charles why he chose to study English in London and what the differences are between studying and working at Kaplan.

What did you do before studying at Kaplan?

Before studying at Kaplan, I lived and worked in the city of Curitiba, Brazil, as Marketing Analyst.

I had already graduated, and had been working for more than 5 years in the same company. I knew it would take a significant change to get a better position in my area. With that in mind I researched the process required to study English overseas.  The UK was my chosen destination and Kaplan seemed the best option to study.

What was your goal before you started studying at Kaplan?

My goal was to improve my English language skills and gain life experience.

Why did you choose London as a location?

I chose London because I think the city is amazing. There are so many things to see and to do all the time. I like the European culture. I have a French citizenship and it has helped me a lot with the decision to stay in England.

What did you study at our Kaplan Covent Garden school? 

I studied Business English. I loved the course as I had a great teacher.

How did you find out about the internship?

It was a very interesting situation. I finished my course at Kaplan not long ago and after searching I found the job advertised on the Internet. I prepared my cover letter and my CV very carefully to apply for the job with conviction and faith.

How did you feel when you found out you had got the job?

It was awesome. That moment I realised I was making my own way and that I would achieve my dreams.

What do you do at Kaplan?

I work in the Online Marketing Department at Kaplan. It is a wonderful experience and should be very good for my career progression.

How is working in London different to studying in London?

When you come to study in London, everything is new and intense. You take your first steps to introduce yourself into another culture and a different society. When you start to work in London, all this process has been achieved and it’s a completely different kind of learning. London is a very fast city, and it is necessary to work very hard.

What is your favorite thing about working at Kaplan?

I see this position as a great opportunity to use and apply my knowledge and my creativity in Marketing projects here in the UK, and express this incredible experience that Kaplan Covent Garden has given me. I have all the help and understanding of my colleagues too.

What piece of advice would you give to students who are going to start studying at Kaplan?

I would say: Do not worry because you are in good hands. Enjoy every minute inside and outside the classroom with your friends - you will miss them for sure!