Job Discussion Forums

suzan · Joined: 17 Jun 2003 Posts: 2

Hi guys.
I am working on a masters in ESL.
I have a five year old son and am a single mom.

I realize most considerations inherent with bringing a child( education, insurance), but one of the requirements of this program is that I at least spend some time overseas.

Does anyone have any good advice as to where and how to realistically approach this?

I'm thinking Mexico or Costa Rica.

Thanks

bnix · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Posts: 645

1.How much time do you have to spend overseas for your program requirement?Most of the contracts in this business are for one year,although there are a very few for less time.
2.Do you want to only fulfill the program requirement,or teqach overseas afterwards?
3.What are the financial considerations.There is no money to be made in Costa Rica(or in most places in Mexico0.While a sinlge person can often put up with tight financial circumstances,it is probably more difficult for a single person with a child.
4.As you have stated,there are many other considerations(housing...many schools just are not set up for teachers with children),visas,etc.etc.

suzan · Joined: 17 Jun 2003 Posts: 2

Okay
I need to teach for a year overseas.
Don't know if I want to stay - there are good jobs here in the states.
Maybe if things go okay.
Do you have suggestions as to where we might find more comfortable circumstances, financially and otherwise?

Thanks

thelmadatter · Posted: Tue Jul 08, 2003 1:00 pm Post subject: mexico

I think if you have to be a single mom living overseas it is better with a little one. they will adapt to the new language and culture faster than a teenager like my son. While he is with his Dad right now (and I am in Mexico) I am hoping to have him next year but I do not know what I will do for him yet education-wise. Maybe tutors as he is completely English speaking (doesnt share mom's love of language).

It is possible with a masters to get a decent paying job in Mexico (dunno about Costa Rica). Check with UDLA, UNAM or where I work ITESM.

Good jobs in the States? Im overseas because I looked for work for 8 months stateside.... Do you have a public school teaching certification? that makes a huge difference. I dont think I could hack PS teaching tho...

PanamaTeacher · Joined: 26 Jun 2003 Posts: 278 Location: Panama

Suzan--In some ways living overseas is easier and cheaper than in the US. And Thelma is right you may be better off with a younger kid. For example most professionals can afford a live-in nanny (about $125 a month here in Panama). She'll cook and clean as well. Decent apartments are $300-$450 a month 1 or 2-bedrooms. I suggest you try universities and private bilingual schools in major urban areas. However, most schools are starting mid-year vacations now, so it's tough to find a job for this term (at least here). Try the Mexico forum for data on Mexico. By the way, do you have teaching experience and have you ever lived overseas before?

In general, the more you conform to a local lifestyle the cheaper you can live. The moment you want things that you take for granted in america, money disappears (my opinion). Example I have had steak once and salmon twice here. Rest of the time I eat bistec picado and corvina.

Good Luck

thelmadatter · Posted: Tue Jul 08, 2003 7:16 pm Post subject: question

its not clear from your original post -- are you applying to a masters program or do you have your masters? Makes a big difference where I work.

C76 · Posted: Tue Jul 08, 2003 8:00 pm Post subject:

Suzan,

I know I'm starting to sound like a broken record these days. I'd love to go to Latin America. I'd love to suggest that you go there too.

But if you're looking for $$, Asia might be a better option. Especially places like Korea or Japan.

Are you in Canada? If so, send me a private message. I might be able to suggest a good company that you can connect with...

Cheers,

C76