Job Discussion Forums

[beana3]

Hi everyone.. I was wondering if you could answer a few of my questions, as I am just beginning to research moving to and working in Italy. I am a college senior (a New Yorker) majoring in English and Education. I am currently pursuing Italian dual-citizenship, and if all goes according to plan, I should have an EU passport by Christmas. I want to move to Italy this summer to teach English, however, my Italian is not very good, so I would love to learn once I get there.

Now that I've told you all about myself, here are my questions:
1. Is it absurd to move to Italy to teach English when my Italian is not that great? I know that classes are English based, since they are looking for native speakers, but what do you guys think?
2. Are TESL certificates necessary? (Keep in consideration that in May I will be graduating with a BA in English and will be certified to teach).. If so, which courses to do you recommend?
3. Which cities are the best for a young girl like myself to move to (most fun, safest, etc)?
4. Is rent expensive? Is it difficult to find roommates?
5. How difficult is it to find a job once I get to Italy? Should I start applying now, or wait until right before I leave or even when I get there?

Thanks so much! I really value all of your thoughts, as you all seem so knowledgeable about this. I appreciate any and all answers to my questions, as well as anything else you think I should know! Thanks again in advance for all of your advice.

Best,
Serena

[Marisa229]

Ciao Beana,

I'm a recent American female college grad myself, and I'm just a few steps ahead of you in the process of moving to Italy to teach. I can't answer all of your questions, but i just want to say kudos to you for making the decision to do it because I'm sure it will be a great experience.

[Is it absurd to move to Italy to teach English when my Italian is not that great?]

I don't think it's that absurd. People go to S. Korea and Egypt and tons of other places around the world to tefl not knowing the language. If anything, it will be just as much a great learning experience for you!

[Is it difficult to find roommates?]

check out [www.easystanza.com]

[How difficult is it to find a job once I get to Italy? Should I start applying now, or wait until right before I leave or even when I get there?]

I am not at the point of being hired yet, but I have been sending my cv out to a bunch of different schools before I arrive. I have not had much luck, and I get the feeling that most employers would like you to already be there before they make any decisions.


Hope this helps. Good luck!