Job Discussion Forums

amyv12 · Joined: 21 Jan 2008 Posts: 11 Location: Calgary, Canada

I have a plan, but it maybe a little unrealistic....
I dont have a degree, but have a TESOL cert. have been Volunteering in a local ESL school for the last 4 months. I am planning on heading to Costa Rica to try my luck the beginning of June. I have a enough money for a few months + depending on what goes on. If I dont get a job in 2 months I was planning on heading up to Mexico to try a second time, in a bigger market.
Now I guess my real question, Is this an unrealistic plan? I know the degree or lack of will hurt the resume, but still willing to give it a try....
What is the average monthly spending/living expences for Costa Rica and Mexico?
Thanks in advance for any advice Laughing

MELEE · Posted: Tue Apr 08, 2008 8:31 pm Post subject:

You will be able to get a job with out a degree in Mexico. But the best jobs will not be available to you.

The general opinion in Mexico is you need to be making 6000 pesos a month to scrape by.

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

YOu could always pick up privates. Schoools care about you being a hard worker, good teacher and being a native.

kingkristopher · Joined: 11 Feb 2006 Posts: 62

Down here the most important factor always seems to be that you are a native speaker. A TESOL certification will seal the deal. Degrees are great, they will get you more money, more and maybe even better opportunities, but they aren't absolutely necessary. You can always find work without one.

Cheers

pirateinpanama · Joined: 04 Feb 2003 Posts: 93 Location: Panama City, Panama

I agree with my friend kingkrisopher. I can only speak about Panama. Teachers are on the job here in private universities without ever having seen the inside of a college classroom as a student. You can get away with it. I'm sure you'd make a better teacher than some of 'deadwood' I come across in this city.
Good Luck! Cool

amyv12 · Joined: 21 Jan 2008 Posts: 11 Location: Calgary, Canada

Thanks everyone,
This makes me feel quite a bit better... I have traveled quite a bit, but this is the 1st time I am feeling intimidated. It could be because I am going for different reasons than just to travel. So thanks for all you help! It is very relieving...

John Hall · Posted: Wed Apr 16, 2008 11:41 pm Post subject:

You can probably get more specific answers about C.R. on the Costa Rica forum.

lostinvenezuela · Joined: 30 Jan 2008 Posts: 7

Hi

I don't think finding a job is a problem, and even if it were, you could find privates. The problem might be if you want to work legally or not. Will you be able to get a work visa or will you be forced to work under the table, doing visa runs every few months.