Job Discussion Forums

[miesk1ms]

Hello all. I have been investigating all the forums for months and have finally ended up registered and ready to post as a newbie. I do have a couple of questions that I don't believe I have seen yet, though that doesn't mean they haven't been answered before. I apologize if they have been.

1. Regarding "minimum" years of experience in some job postings:
Should I go ahead and apply for the jobs requiring 3 years if I have only two?
2. I graduate with my MA in TESOL in May. Should I just wait to apply until I have my degree in hand or go ahead and apply anyway? I have done so already with a couple of nibbles (just can't afford to attend TESOL in NYC right now!). Should I just save my energy and wait til it's official?

In case you have some newbie advice, here are my particulars:

I'm 46 and would like to teach overseas and take my hubby with me. The Middle East is my first choice (I LOVED my Saudi students, know all of the arguments and won't change my mind) and Korea is my second choice.

I have one year experience as a graduate assistant at the university where I am receiving my degree, and one year plus two summers of adjunct teaching in our English language institute, and a lot of tutoring experience, on and off since high school and a lot "on" since going back to college. (Perhaps that equals three years? )

The economy sucks here in Michigan, we're not getting younger so the time is NOW. I'll miss my grandchildren but there's always Skype and if I find the right position, a long summer paid vacation.

I'm nervous about finding a job for this fall. I don't know if I can take waiting until the last minute!

Thank you for any and all advice and encouragement that you can offer!! I promise to take my turn mentoring newbies when I have a few years under my belt!

[spiral78]

I understand that skype is banned in some ME countries

And the academic year doesn't necessarily start in September everywhere.

Other than these two little details, you're certainly qualified and I would say to go for it - I don't think two years versus three should apply in your case. I expect you'll be a reasonable candidate in either the ME or, certainly, in Korea.

[miesk1ms]

I'll definitely keep THAT in mind. I can't go too long without seeing the grandkiddies! I'll miss the hugs and kisses but can't imagine not being able to "see" and talk to them regularly. My friend in Dammam uses Skype and do does my Afghani friend, so I should be ok in those two places!
Thanks for taking time to write a note of encouragement. My husband says I worry too much. My Saudi students say he'll make more money in KSA than I will if locals find out he is an experienced (35+ years) farrier! Hmmmmm.....we'll see, I guess! Gotta get the job and get there before we find out! I think I am the only one worrying right now!

[coledavis]

Two years rather than three? Yes, go for it. I rather think that the worse you'll get is not getting shortlisted.