Job Discussion Forums

kaililynn · Joined: 14 Dec 2004 Posts: 6

Has anyone taught here? I'm specifically referring to the Centro Cultural Brasil-Estados Unidos de Lins, in Sao Paulo. They have offered me a job (kind of, I've applied for one and gotten some positive feedback) and was wondering if anyone had any experience with them.

Or, if you could suggest anywhere in Brasil to teach, I would appreciate that too!

Thanks a lot!
Peace,
Michelle

amandajoy99 · Joined: 08 Nov 2004 Posts: 63 Location: Brazil

I'm going there at the end of January, through the IICA program that's gotten some negative comments here recently. Hope it works out ok for me!
Look at my post a ways down titled "Lins". Bill, who is teaching there now, replied. Get in touch with him, I'm sure he can tell you all about it.
Good luck! Maybe I'll see you there.

fragganika · Joined: 12 Dec 2004 Posts: 60 Location: North American

I think you'll be ok... as long as you don't run up against someone as imbalanced as my former manager at Wizard.

My problem with IICA is probably the same problem you'll get with any agency in Brazil - disorganization.

I would just make one suggestion - make sure they give you time off as you need it. My old school had me work contract hours, but over 6 days a week, early A.M. on weekends, so I didn't get to travel anywhere at all... and they manipulated me with stuff about the contract and such (but as you know, the "Handbook" aka contract is so vague and ambiguous, you can interpret it however you like).

Your biggest bargaining chip is that they CAN'T replace you. It isn't difficult to find a foreigner in SP, but it IS difficult to find one that gets paid as little as you do... and it takes a long time to find someone who speaks good enough english to teach anyway.

So make them give you a fair schedule... that's the only way you'll get to enjoy traveling and enjoying nearby places.