Job Discussion Forums

[miss_betty]

Hello All
From reading all of these posts, I know I will do the CELTA program.
I have not found threads about traveling overseas versus staying in the US for CELTA certification. Does anyone have input on pro's and cons of either? The obvious pro of leaving the country and having a new experience is very appealing...I am sure there are many more.

Money for the program, is not an object for me, so I can throw a bit of that caution to the wind.

I am most interested in a CELTA program that has superior job placement. Any suggestions?

I will tell you all a bit more about me: I am a US citizen, single female, 35 y/o with a BS in clinical laboratory science and biology. I also have an associated degree in Horticulture. I have worked in pharmaceutical sales for 5 years for an industry giant.

I do have a relative ( father) from an EU country....I am starting to gather the necessary docs to gain this secondary citizenship to work in the EU nations.....until then...I just have that dream.

As it stands, I really don't have much intrest in Asia..it may be from my lack on information....go ahead and educate me on the benifits of working in Asia ....

Thanks in advance!
Jahnine

[Gordon]

If there is a CELTA in your home city, I say do it there. You will have more support and resources at your disposal. The CELTA really is challenging, so the more that people can help you in a domestic sense, ther easier the course will be for you. I really don't think employers care where the CELTA is done, as long as you have it.

[tedkarma]

I'll play devil's advocate and say that you should do your CELTA overseas.

If you are interested in teaching abroad - this is a good way to stick your toe in the water and see a little bit of what it might be like to be in a foreign country - not as a tourist or traveler - but as someone with a task at hand (such as study or work) - and the frustrations that may come about as a result of that task-orientation.

I would also suggest that the networking possibilities of a course overseas will outweigh the job placement possibilities.

As a former (well, and current) teacher trainer - I can tell you that the people you meet will often have many years experience in the exact thing that you want to do - and may even have worked in the schools and know the needed connections for exactly where you want to go. Not always, but it's a much smaller world than you might think.

Attend a school in the country where you would like to start - and you'll meet people who have taught in the schools there - will know which schools are h*ll to work for - which are delightful. Information your job placement program might or might not know or share.

Just FYI, many people who take such courses are already experienced teachers - just seeking to improve their skills and/or job prospects.

I am guessing - but honestly don't know - that your peers in a classroom in the USA won't be the adventurous and experienced lot you'll find overseas. And frankly, the folks overseas are good people to get to know - you'd start your career with a good dose of reality and street knowledge that you might not get at home.

Just my opinion.

[miss_betty]

thank you gordon and tedkarma........i know there is no correct answer...i appreciate your input

[Gordon]

Ted, made some good points and I would agree with pretty much everything he said. It really comes down to how confident you think you will be learning how to teach and living in a new culture simultaneously. I think generally most people who take the CELTA are pretty serious about teaching. It is the most expensive TESL cert course on the market (that I know of).

[denise]

If you don't know what country you want to teach in, it might be wise to do a course in the US, for the reasons Gordon mentioned. If you do know what country you want to live/work in, doing the course there will help you get acclimated to your new home. It will also be easier to find a job if you are already in the country. I did my TEFL course in Prague and was able to get settled in and find a job before the end of the course.

I came to Asia with no real interest in it (lured here by the money...never again!!! It's simply NOT a good enough reason by itself!!), and I am leaving Asia with no real interest in it. I'd say go to a place that appeals to you, rather than letting other people try to sell you on their own dream locations. You'll probably enjoy yourself more in a place that already interests you.

d

[tedkarma]

Uh . . . remember that Asia is a big continent.

While you may have lost your interest in the area where you are - or have traveled - there is probably much much more. Japan is not Papua New Guinea is not India is not Laos is not Afghanistan is not . . . well you get the picture.

Don't mean to advocate for Asia - or maybe I do. Only my opinion, but I think it is the most fascinating part of the world.

But - Denise is right - you have to follow what really interests you - and not someone else�s dream.

[miss_betty]

Thanks again for your replies. Here is where I am torn...

My intrest really lies in teaching in Europe. However, until I can round up all the appropriate paperwork to start my application for Greek citizenship/passport....I cannot really follow my heart to teach in Europe. I am not into teaching illegaly and bening paid under the table. That simply is not my style.

Denise, from your post, you make is seem incredibally feasi