Job Discussion Forums

marcoelgrande · Joined: 04 May 2007 Posts: 13 Location: Los Angeles

Hello All,

I�m a newcomer to the (seemingly) crazy world of ESL, and was wondering whether anyone could offer their opinion on what I�m considering. To pre-empt certain responses, I�m aware the answer to my question depends on many variables, so if you could answer based on your own experiences that would be great.

Basically, I�m in my final year of a BA, looking to travel to Chile (hopefuly Santiago) for nine months next year to widen my world view. I plan to have available about US$2000 on arrival. My question is as follows: Is it conceivable that my potential wages from teaching at an institute/school/privately would cover basic living costs (food, rent & clothing), with the other $2000 or so to be used for extras? More to the point, has anyone else found themselves in this situation? If so, how did you manage it? (i.e. no. of hours, accommodation, teaching location etc.) Yes, yes, the variables, i know, i know...!

If anyone could offer advice, I�d really appreciate it.
Thanks

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

You can do fine as long as you don't expect to live the high life.

denise · Joined: 23 Apr 2003 Posts: 3419 Location: finally home-ish

Once you get a job you'll do fine, but that $2000 will need to cover you until you get that job and get your first paycheck, which could take a couple of months. If you don't already have a return ticket, that $2000 will also need to cover airfare home.

d

Ai · Joined: 02 Jun 2006 Posts: 154 Location: Chile

I think March is the main hiring time since it's the start of the school year. If you're graduating in May, it may be a good idea to work at home and save money until February/March. If you come then, it should be easier and quicker to find work.

marcoelgrande · Joined: 04 May 2007 Posts: 13 Location: Los Angeles

Cool, thanks for the replies!

I take the point about not living the high life-my main concern is really being able to sustain myself without having to draw on extra funds (in my youthful optimism, I hope to explore other regions of the world after LA, so debt is something I could do without!)

By the way, when most of you arrive at your destination, do you generally just look at the classifieds to find an apartment? Or is this something best organised prior to departure?

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

You'll have to arrive first before you can arrange housing. Unless you have contacts who wuld be willing to look for you.

Also try the Chile forum, I'l sure they might be able to help you out.