Javier Ramos, English Co-ordinator, Mexico

Why did you choose to take C1 Advanced?:

In my life I have had many valuable experiences; traveling, volunteering, working and spending time with new people. What I have noticed is that to continue growing as I hope, I need to have a proven level in English. For me it is important to have a certificate that stands out from the rest, is accurate and leaves a lasting impression on schools and employers. This is exactly what the C1 Advanced does – it makes you stand out from the crowd.

How do you think C1 Advanced has helped you to achieve your goals?

I never really took English seriously in middle school or high school, but once I started university I realised what a big mistake I had made. I spoke well and could understand more than my classmates, but they were doing better than I was in exams and had started teaching at some well-known schools in my area. I thought “I have to change this now!”. I went to my nearest preparation centre and started preparing for C1 Advanced. Ever since then things have been going great – I have worked with Cambridge ESOL as an oral examiner, exams officer, teacher trainer, and now I am working happily as an English Co-ordinator at a school that I love with a system that I designed around Cambridge ESOL. Personally, I know I would not be where I am today if it were not for my first experience with C1 Advanced, which gave me the initiative to continue developing within the ESOL community.

What would you say to someone thinking about taking C1 Advanced?

I have lived the difference between a teacher who knows the language and a teacher who is certified in a language. So if you are thinking about taking the exam, I have one recommendation for you – do it! There is no reason not to and over a million reasons why! Make an investment in your future!