Job Discussion Forums

[Laeti]

Hello all.

I've been thinking about teaching english abroad for a while and have finally decided to take the plunge. I've done a fair amount of research on the internet but have a couple of questions for you seasoned vets. First of all, a bit on my background:

I'm a 23 year old male with BA's in History and Politics. I've had about a year of experience working with non-profit organizations. I speak a bit of Russian and a bit of German.

I am very interested in teaching in the Central/East European region. I realize that this is a large and heterogeneous area; I am very interested in its history and culture. It seems to me that getting certified abroad is a better idea, as I would get the feel for another country and make a few contacts who would be working nearby. I'm trying to decide between Akcent Prague (in Brno), IH Krakow, or IH Budapest as it seems CELTA is the way to go in these countries.

My other main question regards timing. I am currently between jobs and don't have much in terms of savings. I would like to have at least a few thousand saved up before leaving in case I don't find a job immediately. Would I be at a severe disadvantage if I worked here in the US for 3 or so months, did a cert. program in September, then searching for a job in October? Would it be a better idea to just save more, do the cert. program next Spring/Summer, and find a job after that?

Any thoughts recommendations would be appreciated.

[Chasgul]

If you're on a tight budget try doing the CELTA in Bulgaria. As for timing, 'fraid I can't help you on that one.

[EnglishBrian]

Getting the CELTA is without doubt the way to go. I taught in Lithuania for 3 years then want on to be Director of Studies after that, and we had teachers with qualifications varying from nothing to diploma level. After that experience personally I'd steer clear of anyone without a CELTA (or Trinity TESOL cert.), mostly cos whatever the down sides of it, the course does at least start to prepare you for the reality of the business.

Going the IH route might also be wise - good courses, lots of contacts for getting jobs in the region afterwards (like you say) and it always looks good on the CV.

Regarding timing, I'd say get in there as soon as you can. Yes, Sept and Oct. are usually the start of term so you could miss that, but so many places are looking for teachers (especially with CELTAs) all the time you wouldn't be at a really great disadvantage. Worth noting last time I recruited, had over 100 applications and only 1 with CELTA! Also, the longer you try and build up a safety net the more cash you're likely to feel you need. I did my CELTA originally cos I'd quit my real job, travelled for a year and wanted to keep on travelling after my money ran out. Get a bit of cash behind you and get out there if that's what you've decided you want to do.

Best of luck

[Laeti]

Great, thanks for the responses and encouragement, especially Brian. As I'm considering looking for employment in the Baltics after I get certified, it's good to know what to expect.