Job Discussion Forums

[hawly]

As some of you may know I'm hoping to travel to Peru in May 2006. I don't have a bachelor's degree but by that time I will be in or finished my 3rd year at university.

My dilemma (how dramatic) is whether or not to get a TEFL certificate before I go. Most sites have stated that the "best way to get a job is to just go, you will likely get a job without the certificate". I was thinking that if I couldn't find a job without a TEFL certificate, I could get one through a language center while I am there.

What are your opinions on this? Better safe than sorry or be adventurous young padawan?

Thanks

[ls650]

I believe that if you don't have a degree, a TEFL Certificate will improve your chances of finding a better job. Yes, without any qualifications you'll likely find _something_ - but wouldn't you rather have a crack at one of the better jobs?

[hawly]

That's definitely a good point..

Does anyone know anything about bridge linguatec?

[Weona]

BL tends to be very expensive depending on where you do it. I had a few friends who took classes from them in Santiago de Chile and once their certificate was received, the place basically said "see ya later" without giving them teaching opportunities like they had promised before signing up.

Another friend was given about 6 hours of teaching a week and the pay was so horrible that she ended up quitting and found a better job somewhere else.

I think the main thing with BL is that it's expensive and I'm not sure that their certificate holds that much weight. Wouldn't hurt to look into it as a possibility, though.

[matttheboy]

BL (and EBC and others) offer pretty much the same course as the Cambridge CELTA or Trinity TESOL but without CELTA/TESOL's worldwide recognition. Hmmmm...now which would i choose????