Job Discussion Forums

[Markness]

There's a humbling feeling knowing that the Chinese have to go overseas to get a leg-up on their competition, this provides some sort of security. The only thing that scares me a bit is there are a few Chinese folk that I know that actually left the USA (maybe not Canada and Australia), because they can make more money back in China.

Where is the OP anyways? Did your question get answered?

[Non Sequitur]

I think the background meaning to the return of Chinese grads from Western countries is that the degree hasn't given the creds that enable them to successfully compete for jobs offshore.
Soft degree entry conditions and indulgent course content aimed at maximising cash flow from internationals is coming home to roost.
Of course in true Chinese fashion the returning grads will state that the Harvard degree or whatever was rubbish anyway.

[hdeth]

[Deats]

But her tuition was free THEN she got the 20k as living money, on top of a free student house.

She went to an agricultural university in China which was by no means good - I'd guess the bottom 25% of unis in China. So clearly there were enough places and not that many applicants if they were going to take her. I think you'd be surprised.

I'm also surprised that you think having a good command of English won't get you a better job. I believe the opposite to be true as it will open up a lot of doors - especially with companies moving in to China and needing locals who can report back overseas.

My wife who is Russian has landed excellent jobs because of her English level, whilst her sister who has poor English has been turned down for very good jobs because of her lack of English. I have many examples like this. Having good English won't guarantee anything, but it certainly gives you a way better chance in life.

[AKChina]

Hi, I have an offer from a university that if someone would be so kind to take a look at I would be grateful. The city is a tier 2 in the North.

6000rmb a month.
Maximum of 14 classes a week, 50 mins per class, no English corners.
Winter holiday/national holidays paid, summer holidays unpaid.
7000rmb for airfare.
Accommodation free, on campus.
University pays for the medical/residence permit stuff after I get to China.

It's my first time in China. I've done a year teaching ESL in Vietnam, though not at university level. Have a BA, but not in Education. No TEFL certificate.

Looked decent to me, especially the maximum of 14 classes a week, but would be nice to hear other thoughts.

[Deats]

It's kind of a bog standard contract. By no means is it 'good', but it's kind of the average low salary many unis try to get away with. With your qualifications, it seems ok (at best), although still on the low side.

When I began 6 years ago I applied with: BA in unrelated subject, no TEFL (although I promised to get one, and I did), no experience. I was offered 72,000 a year (6,000 x 12) in a northern uni (Daqing, Heilongjiang). My wife who is Russian was offered the same. We got a free house, 8000 air fare, 2200 travel allowance, all bills paid. Put this into comparison - 6 years have passed (inflation) and presumably you are being offered 60000 for a year - we got 72000. When I look at it like this, I think your contract sucks.

You should really mention which northern city it is in, as that makes a huge difference - pollution, weather, medical care etc.

I would not look at ANY uni contract offering under 70k for a whole year. If the uni doesn't want you for a second year, what will you do in July/August? You should be paid for these months. You agree to give up a year of your life, but the uni will only pay you for 10 months!? At 6k a month, this seems rather crap.

[Non Sequitur]

Most Chinese who study abroad have trouble getting visas/residency.

In my country, an overseas student needs a permanent job to get PR. They can work for a while on the strength of their just acquired job but must acquire a career position to stay longer. That's where the dodgy degree hits home.
This has led to a situation where newly arrived permanent residents who run businesses certify a permanent position for the new grad, which Immigration accept. The latest cost I heard was around US$20K in bills in an envelope.

[Non Sequitur]

[AKChina]

[Non Sequitur]

I generally counsel 'look for the least downside' on that first China gig and your offer seems good to me.
Only thing I'd still want clarified is: 'How far north is "north"'?
Go on Weather Underground and see the temp profile for the months after your arrival. At least you'll know what you're getting into!
As extra insurance, ask to be put in touch with current/past FTs.
I feel you can put up with a lot if admin are positive towards foreign staff.
As it's a tier two, chances are the students are local and I actually prefer this group, to the 'too cool for school' kids you can get in the higher ranked schools.

[AKChina]

[hdeth]

[Non Sequitur]

[AKChina]

[hdeth]

Pretty much every school uses bad textbooks. The English level of your students will vary widely depending on the reputation of the uni, the grade level, their major, etc. You won't really know until you get there.

Summer break should be paid if you renew.