Job Discussion Forums

[Njord]

I'm currently completing my last year for my undergraduate degree in political science as an exchange student in Sweden. I was also a parliamentary intern in Ottawa one summer - my MP resigned after pinching a ring, in case that rings any bells. I have a massive amount of experience designing, facilitating, and participating in United Nations rollplays. I have studied (but am by no means fluent in) French and Swedish and I've done some tutoring in math and science, but I have no ESL background. My citizenship is United States.

After I'm done in Sweden I plan to take a CELTA course in July and then spend at least two years teaching in East Asia - probably China or South Korea as I'm used to northern climates. I would like to keep my options open for either grad school in international politics or an MA in TESL at some point.

1. I'm not sure how long I might want to teach English, perhaps two years, perhaps two decades. Does anyone have some advice on applying for grad schools and scholarships while teaching abroad?

2. There is a course offered here in comparative education. I may talk to the instructor, but does anyone else have an opinion on whether this could be of any use?

3. Should I start to apply for jobs before or during my CELTA course since it is so late in the summer? Would this hurt my chances?

4. Any other advice for me?

[Glenski]

4. Choose a country that interests you, and start learning the language and customs. Frequent the specific discussion forum here that pertains. Read all the FAQ sections related to that country.

[denise]

I applied to grad school in the States while I was teaching in the Czech Republic. As long as you've got reliable internet and telephone service, you should have no problems with the application process. You do need to make sure you give yourself enough time to track down transcripts, letters of recommendation, etc., and have them mailed over to you. Or, better yet, make sure to bring enough hard copies with you before you head off on your teaching job. I got my MA in TESOL, so of course the school was used to folks being overseas (no stable home address, severely limited income, etc.).

d