Job Discussion Forums

jseens · Joined: 13 May 2005 Posts: 21

I'm sort of at a fork in the road when it comes to choosing a career path. I would like to hear from those of you who have some experience in the teaching field. Tell me...all things considered, would you still choose teaching as a career? And why?

dmb · Joined: 12 Feb 2003 Posts: 8397

Yes because I enjoy it. (quite lucky I guess as I don't know what else I would do)

PAULH · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 4672 Location: Western Japan

Gordon · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 5309 Location: Japan

I like the freedom that it gives, when so often we can be tied down to unwanted responsilities. I can teach in practically any country I want and pick up and leave any time (just so long as I bring my wife, 2 kids, computers, books, clothes, toys.......) Laughing

After 10 years, I wouldn't trade it for anything. Can't believe I said that, must have caught me on a good day.

We always think what if..., but life is short, you may always regret it.

basiltherat · Joined: 04 Oct 2003 Posts: 952

definitely. despite all the hassles ive had over the years in this gig, i'd choose it again simply because overall i enjoy it and essentially ... i know how to do it to the satisfaction of the people i teach .. and thats important.
regards
basil

tedkarma · Posted: Thu May 19, 2005 1:02 pm Post subject:

Not only would I chose it again - I wish I had chosen it ten years earlier!

I love teaching - have taught EFL/ESL and business - doesn't matter as I enjoy the students.

Five total countries since 1989 - and a total change in my life. Of course, I feel a bit alienated with old friends back home when I don't know much about the latest TV shows . . .

I also think that I am quite a bit better off financially than I might have been back home - not to mention that I've had a life time of additional vacation time (I'm a university teacher).

If you are are going to persist - run, don't walk, and get yourself a master's degree so you can teach at university level (I know, I know - maybe NOT in Japan - but in most other countries in Asia you can). Not only will you make a bit more - you'll at least quadzipple (is that a word?) your vacation time. I've not had less than ten weeks off per year since 1992 - and often 4-5 months off per year. I think that will allow me to live a few extra years - and it will give you time to pursue other interests such as writing, websites, travel, family time, etc.

jseens · Joined: 13 May 2005 Posts: 21

Wonderful, keep these coming. To give you a bit more background on myself, I'm a Canadian with a B.A. and a B.Ed. degree. I spent one year teaching at a private elementary school in Mexico where I was teaching all subjects (not just English). I definitely miss the experience of being in a new place but don't think I miss teaching subjects like Math and Science. I think ESL may be where my future lies.

I asked a similar question on a forum made up primarily of teachers in the North American public school system and the responses have been the complete opposite of what I'm getting here. Almost everyone on the other forum said that they WOULDN'T choose teaching again. You all on the other hand seem so passionate about your love for teaching ESL.

Thanks for the input and keep sharing!

PAULH · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 4672 Location: Western Japan