Job Discussion Forums

Member100 · Joined: 05 Dec 2012 Posts: 3

I recently applied online for an English Language Instructor position at HCT and was sent a rejection email one day after I applied. I have been subsequently told by someone that it may be because they specifically require an MA in TESOL or linguistics. I have an MEd. with a TESOL cert. from a reputable university in the U.S. (not done online) and have 5 years teaching experience at a university in Kuwait. I am currently teaching ESL ful time in the U.S. for a charitable refugee resettlement agency. Does anyone know if they flat out reject anyone who doesn't have an MA specifically in linguistics or TESOL and read no further?

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

That sounds very odd. First off, really odd to get an immediate rejection. Are you sure that you didn't do something incorrect on the web entries causing it to kick you out this way? (I know that their site sometimes has issues)

And your MEd is related. So, I don't see it as an issue.

According to many of their ads, an MA isn't required. Although they don't hire that many, the ads have often said BA + CELTA + a few years of good related experience.

If possible, I would plan to attend TESOL in Texas where you could try again.

VS

Sirens of Cyprus · Joined: 21 Mar 2007 Posts: 255

So far, HCT is not listed as attending.

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

I wonder if they are even hiring. They have axed so many people this year, and it is possible that they are not replacing them.

VS

Member100 · Joined: 05 Dec 2012 Posts: 3

Thank you both for the info.! Yes VS, I think you are right, the vacancy I applied for on their web site was very old so they have probably gotten all the applicants they need. I applied just before the closing date so I thought there was still a possibility. . .

smedini · Joined: 24 Feb 2006 Posts: 178

For what it's worth I applied on February 9th and my application has been "under review" since then. I was wondering if that was long...?

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

Was it for the same opening as above or was it a new ad?

VS

smedini · Joined: 24 Feb 2006 Posts: 178

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

I'm just guessing here... but they are likely hanging fire until after TESOLArabia and TESOL US are finished. There may also be questions about staff needs for next year.

Right now your CV is likely on the "maybe" list. You have good educational credentials, but your experience is on the low side. Getting that first job in the Gulf can be difficult. If they don't bite, you might try Oman and get a couple years of "related experience" during which you could also attend TESOLArabia and more easily snag an interview.

VS

smedini · Joined: 24 Feb 2006 Posts: 178

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

Confusion is your punishment. Cool

And the advice could very well go for both of you. But, in this case, I was talking to you.

VS

smedini · Joined: 24 Feb 2006 Posts: 178

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

There are so many teachers roving the Gulf with 10+ years in Middle East university foundations programs. For instance, the collapse of the QU program has a significant number of teachers looking to escape the insecurity.

VS

smedini · Joined: 24 Feb 2006 Posts: 178

Thanks again! I'm still keeping my fingers crossed, but not get my hopes up too high. That said, I just got an email saying my application has passed the screening and is "to be considered for upcoming interviews". At least that's movement after being "under review" for the last month Wink

#fingersstillcrossed

~smedini

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

Sounds positive...

Good Luck!!

VS