Job Discussion Forums

[erica63]

Hello all!

Thanks so much for your help with my questions thus far. Reading the past messages has been a huge help in my research about going to China and I really appreciate your willingness to guide those of us who are setting off for the first time. I have just a couple more things to ask...

I am opting for the go-to-China-and-try-to-find-a-job approach. I will be arriving in Shanghai mid-June. I would like to stay until approx. December before I move on to another Asian country. I have read most of the boards so I have a sense for what kind of jobs are available, but I'm getting a bit worried about finding a company that will sponsor me 6 months or less. It will be my first real teaching job (I taught once a week for five months at a French preschool), although I will be TEFL certified with a bachelor's degree. I would like to be employed during the summer and fall so I'm guessing language mills will be my best bet. If I'm not willing to sign a 12-month contract, will I be stuck with a shady school? Will I be able to get a work visa? I realize I will have to run to HK to switch my visa.

I have worked in the admissions office at a prestigious college in the US, and I am interested in doing college advising and/or SAT prep. What do you know about the availability of these opportunities? Would they have to be side jobs or can I find primary employment doing this work?

Additionally, just to ask while I'm posting: What kind of clothes should I wear while looking for a job in Shanghai? Any tips on how to best look for and pick an employer once I get there?

Also, I work as a bartender now in the States. Is there any of this kind of work available in Shanghai? Is the pay worth it?

Thanks again!