Job Discussion Forums

[prescott]

Hello. I plan to live in Bogota for one to two years, teaching English and studying Spanish and Latin American Literature. I will arrive in February. Although I don't have a Celta I have an MA. in Spanish literature and an undergraduate degree in English. I have also given private English classes in Mexico.My plan is to combine teaching and studying,working at a school or institute 15-20 hours per week while taking a course or two at la Universidad Nacional. I have 5000 US$ saved to cover start-up costs.
At this point I'm trying to get an idea as to the feasibility of my plan.Will it be possible to keep myself afloat teaching only 15-20 hours per week? I'm prepared to lead a spartan lifestyle and will seek housing in a shared apartment. Also if I'm in Bogota on a student visa, are there reputable institutes who will hire me? I would greatly appreciate any ideas or input. Thank you.
Prescott

[spanglish]

You could probably get on with International House on a part time contract. That would leave you with more time for your studies (full time is 16 hours/week, but the hours are at random times of day and in various locations around the city, but that's another option). In terms of institutes, they're probably the only ones who would make sense for you. Plus, they'll get you a visa. Pay isn't great, but they're pretty flexible.

You could also look into colegios. Pay would be about double that of IH and you'd get lots of vacation time, but would probably be working 50+ hour weeks.

I'd also recommend you look into universities. These are a matter of being in the right place at the right time and being able to wrangle a visa (most of them want nothing to do with helping you get one).

15-20 hours should be easily enough to keep you afloat financially. I'd be a little skeptical though of your plans to study and work. Transportation is difficult in Bogota, as you probably know, and you don't want to be too ambitious. Just try to be realistic.

You've got the right idea regarding La Nacional, easily the best and coolest university in the country. Get hooked up with them, all kinds of opportunities.

[prescott]

Spanglish, thank you very much for your reply.