Job Discussion Forums

[struelle]

It's nice to ring in the Year of the Monkey with a vacation in the south of China, which is where I'm now before my parents cross the border from Vietnam. To quote the Chinese, the future looks bright. Although last year was a tough one, life for me must be good to be having dilemmas about where to go next.

My current trip confirms earlier plans to look for a future post in the Deep South. Right now in Nanning it's the coldest weather they've had all year but a light jacket is enough. I've found people in the south tend to be more laid-back, as the subtropical hot and humid climate slows down the pace of life and reduces stress. Most cities I've been to are also modern, but have significant culture and friendly people.

The biggest challenge is trying to make a decision. Xiamen and Nanning both fare well on warm weather and friendly people. But so does Bangkok in Thailand and I've just got an offer there.

I've got 2+ years of experience teaching English to all ages, a CELTA, and experience in other subjects. I'd prefer to go for senior teacher posts at language schools or universities. The job offer in Thailand is the best match for all of these. But I've invested a lot of time in learning Chinese language and culture, and Thailand would be a whole new experience.

Money is a factor, of course. Salaries are lower in the South, about the same as Bangkok from what I've found. The senior teacher ads I've seen in southern cities offer around 5000-6000RMB a month. Much less than Shanghai, although the lower costs and slower pace of life would greatly offset that.

Finally, there's further education. I'm looking to save for a TESOL Masters in the near future, although I can go back to Canada and pay dirt-cheap bucks for a BEd next Sept. if need be.

Currently my contract in Shanghai will finish at the end of June, plus I'll do a summer camp at the previous conversation school I worked at.

Given all this, what can others suggest as a next step?

Thanks in advance,

Steve

[Roger]

I suggest: it's holiday season, forget about those conundrummy things, career choices, the treadmill of your job - enjoy what you can enjoy!

The same as I do - I am off to Kunming, and from there on to Xishuangbanna!

Mate, how I crave that laid-back attitude the Dai people are supposed to have!
And the warmth of a subtropical climate - 25 degrees in Dehong, 5 degrees at night!

Compared to drizzle and 5 to 11 degrees here in Guangdong!