Today we’d like to introduce you to Mardy Arenas.
Mardy, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have always loved travel, so it was a natural desire for me to live and work abroad immediately after graduating from university. After teaching English as a Second Language in Osaka, Japan for a couple years, I knew that it was something that I wanted to continue doing. Upon my return to North America, I took on teaching positions in various private language schools. My interest in the business aspect led to administrative positions in language schools. Before joining the Kaplan International family as school director, I taught ESL in Boston and San Diego, spent my sabbatical leave learning French in Quebec City, and managed schools in Santa Monica and Honolulu. It’s been such a fun journey getting to where I am today.
Has it been a smooth road?
To be completely honest, I have experienced any real obstacles. I am dedicated and committed to my career in international education. I have enjoyed the challenges with which I’ve been faced and the personal growth I have observed in myself.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Kaplan International San Diego is just one of 43 English language schools around the world. Our wide range of English-language courses for students wishing to study English abroad ensures we have the perfect match for everyone. People are able to choose between courses for adults, courses for young learners aged 14-18, or online courses for kids aged 3-10. Students learn through our unique and innovative K+ system, which is specially designed to enhance learning by embracing technology as a teaching tool.
Courses are structured to help students achieve fluency quickly and effectively, providing them with a variety of options that best suit their English learning needs. Students are able to prepare for the TOEFL®, GRE, GMAT, or any number of others with our exam preparation courses, become fluent during a long-term academic semester, or brush up on their general language skills with a vacation or intensive program.
Last year, our students represented over 150 nationalities and more than 94% of our students would recommend us. This is because we provide our students with a full and well-rounded experience that not only includes English classes, but a robust activity program full of fun events and excursions featuring the highlights of San Diego, and a school environment that is welcoming, safe, and enjoyable.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
San Diego is a great place for businesses like Kaplan because it is a popular destination for international students. The weather is ideal, the food is abundant and delicious, and the people are friendly and welcoming. For anybody starting out, I would totally recommend them starting out in San Diego. There is something interesting in this city for every type of person.
Contact Info:
- Address: 660 6th Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92101
- Website: https://www.kaplaninternational.com/united-states/san-diego/english-school-san-diego
- Phone: 858.551.5750
- Email: mardy.arenas@kaplan.com
- Instagram: @kaplan_sandiego
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kicsandiego/

Getting in touch: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
