Job Discussion Forums

[Morgareets]

As someone who is just starting out in their TEFL career, I have no experience in teaching. I have a B.A. in Zoology, a TEFL certificate, Experience living abroad in Europe. I have also traveled in Mexico and speak intermediate level spanish.

This coming spring, I hope to move to mexico and teach to elementary students in a private school. Is this an unrealisitc goal since I have no real teaching experience? Also, I do realize that I would be coming to Mexico after the start of the 'semester'. Any thoughts?

[TheLongWayHome]

With state institutions I would really recommend being there and settled before the start of the semester as most only hire during this period. They'll probably like to see some experience too, especially with kids even if it's in a private language school. Private language schools are a little more flexible and hire when they need teachers, which is usually most of the year. Get your feet wet there while scoping out the elementary schools in the area. Do some networking.

No goal is unrealistic though. You could find yourself in the right place at the right time. It happened to me. I was hired in the middle of a semester at a uni.

Good luck.

[Guy Courchesne]

I think your goals are a tad unrealistic, but not impossible. Timing is the biggest factor...I doubt you'll find a position for a spring start. Lack of teaching experience or training with kids is also going to impede you, but then again, as LongWay notes, you never know.

Best to have a back-up plan, including working with adults at a language school. Or maybe look for a summer program with kids.

[dixie]