Job Discussion Forums

[hynish]

Hi

I have just completed my degree, but although I get my course transcripts at the end of June I won't get the certificate until October. I was looking at going to Korea for a year - but they won't accept me without the certificate and I need to be back by end of August 2008. So I was wondering what other countries in Asia would accept me and how good they are. I want to go somewhere safe and has a good culture. I also need to earn money to pay for more study. I don't currently have an tefl qualification.

[saint57]

Well, I'd say basically every other country is open to you. The major problem will be saving money. Korea is the only place I can think of where you can go for one year and come out with about $10,000. My friend in China makes about the same as the average teacher in Korea, but he has been there four years. He went through hell in his first year.

Go for the experience and go for fun but don't expect to make a lot of money if you have no experience and are only in it for a year.

[lmbeharry]

I think Korea is the best place (with a good culture) offering the opportunity to save money. Korea's culture also stresses politeness, and many Korean people will try to make you feel comfortable. I like to camp out under the stars. When I was there, I spent most of my free time in a tent in one of Korea's bountiful National Parks.

If you are waiting on your certificate, apply for some jobs in Korea and explain your situation. In the meantime, you can procure a letter from the Dean at your institution and direct this letter to the Korean recruiters.

Lastly, international mail to Korea is prompt, so if you land a job in Korea, have your University mail (or express) your diplomas and you may then give these to your recruiters.

In general, Korea may not give you a working visa without an original or notarized diploma copy. But Americans may stay in Korea for (I think) three months without a visa. And you should have received your diploma within the interval.

Before I left the U.S. I was sure to procure ten sealed copies of school transcripts (undergraduate and graduate), and I travel with these - as well as original diplomas. If you intend to be an expatriate, I believe that it is wise to procure originals of your academic documents.

I hope this helps.

Lyndon