Job Discussion Forums

[Alfie]

Can anyone tell me what the application process for HCT is? I've checked my history for the status on my ap and there is a check under 'yes' for being screened and such but nothing in the interview box. I've heard nothing from them, yet. I hope this means that they want to interview me. Can anyone confirm this for me?

Also, I've read a bunch about UGRU and Zayed and U of Sharjah in addition to HCT, but which one at this time would be a better outfit to work for? Best overall package (for someone without kids and no spouse) and a place where people are happy to be working there.

Thanks.

[veiledsentiments]

If there is nothing in the interview box and you have heard nothing, I think I would probably assume the worst. Though... they are usually pretty good about sending off the 'no thanks, do away' letter. So, all hope is not gone yet... you didn't say how long you have been waiting. You are very early in the hiring process for next September, so they are likely in no rush.

Between HCT, ZU, and UGRU, things are pretty equal and a matter of taste and luck of the management draw as to job happiness. The pay and benefits are close, and the pros and cons are personal. I suggest that you do a search and read the many posts on these places and decide which sounds best to you. Realistically, I would apply to all and wait to see if you get an offer from any of them. HCT and ZU are notoriously picky, and UGRU is large and probably hires the most teachers each year.

University of Sharjah has had problems in the past and as a private university is rumored to be cutting the benefits package. But, as a single person, this should not affect you as much as married w/children. No definitive word yet on this though.

VS

[Alfie]

Thanks VS!
I'm usually quite pessimistic, but I guess I am also impatient. It has only been since mid-September. I don't think I explained the status thing very well. For pre-screened and screened both have been checked for 'in' rather than 'out' and the next step is the selected for interview, which is blank so far. I was thinking that if I've been rejected, then they'd check 'out.' I could be wrong.


The closing date for the job I applied for is Nov. 23.
I've read both positive and negative comments about UGRU, but some are much older and I know there has been changes (this goes for HCT as well, with MLI in the picture now - something I am not clear about). Just want some current news.

Thank you again.

[veiledsentiments]

Ahhh... with the Nov 23 closing date, I'd say to be patient a bit longer. They probably won't do final interview choices until closer to that time. I'd say that at this point, it is 'no news is good news.' As I said, they are usually very quick to say 'no.'

UGRU had lots of problems in the past, and naturally there are some there who are not happy, but in general, most teachers consider it a decent gig.

HCT has many branches and it is the usual thing where there are some managements that cause more waves than others. But, you have NO say on where you are assigned... other than to choose to turn down the offer.

The MLI thing is only relevent in that it has rather disappeared into a separate department of HCT called CERT. CERT is involved in contract teaching for companies and/or the military now it seems. That is different from the HCT which has men's and women's colleges for new secondary school graduates.

VS

[Ka-CHING!]

The different HCT branches have different management teams and these can be either very good or absolutely horrid. The JIJ call tell you a bit more about the individual branches.

HCT facilities do tend to be very nice, regardless of the branch, and the housing is also very good. But HCTers are required to be at work 9 or more hours *every* day so, although the salary is higher than UGRU's, you really have to work for it.

UGRU's pay is a bit lower, and housing can be hit or miss, although management is working on that issue. An average UGRU day is only 6 hours long, so you have more time to yourself. The lower admninistration (that the teachers work directly under) is brilliant, although upper levels are a bit murky. Overall, it's a happy place.

For both HCT and UGRU, the application process involves submitting your information and then sweating it out for six months or so. If you get contacted, you're up for an interview but if not, you're out. Only those who are shortlisted are contacted.

Good luck!