Job Discussion Forums

[firebird]

I'll be returning to the U.S. either in 2012 or 2013 and want to do a MATESOL in Arizona. I figured the easiest way would be to apply for the program while I'm still abroad so that I will have housing secured once I arrive. However, I'd like to establish residency before applying to the program for lower tuition, plus I'd like to work for a year or two before going back to school so I can re-adjust to the U.S. and remember what it's like to make money. I'm American, btw.

Thing is, I'll be returning to the U.S. alone. I have no family (all of my family lives abroad) nor any friends with whom I could live with in the beginning. I don't have much money either for start-up costs. Does anyone have housing alternatives for someone in my situation? I can't do au pair/live-in nanny because of a medical condition.

Or, can anyone recommend some sort of 'program' or opportunity where I could live somewhere in exchange for labor? I came across several nature retreats in California where you can live on-site for free while working food service/customer service. I'm open to that, but haven't found something similar in AZ.

Just looking for ideas since housing will be my biggest issue without a job lined up first.

[fraup]

Try www.workaway.info

and look at opportunities in Arizona. I stayed with a Workaway host in Germany a couple of months ago. It costs a bit to join--30 Euro or so for 2 years--but there are some really nice-sounding opportunities.

You might also try posting on Craigslist under "housing wanted", but CL does not vet its advertisers. Workaway is safer.

[timothypfox]

How about a teaching fellowship? That would take care of a good deal of your college costs, and give you a job while you are a school in a classroom:

http://arizonateachingfellows.ttrack.org/