Job Discussion Forums

Nyx · Joined: 24 Feb 2009 Posts: 5

Hi All,
So I am a newbie but I have been reading this site (and using the search function) for a couple of weeks but I do have some questions still. I really want to teach in Asia after I graduate in May. I was pursuing JET (in Japan) but after a horrible interview I am pretty sure I didn't make it. So now I'm pursuing Plan B, which is teach in Taiwan.

So my first question (and the one I really need answered) is:
When do I start applying for jobs if I want to start in August? How long does applying usually take? And can I put off applying until early April (when I find out about JET) or should I start now? (Pretty much that is all the same question phrased in different ways)

So my second question is:
What type of schools should I apply to?

My qualifications:
Native English speaker (American)
Graduating in May with a BA (with a 3.7 gpa)
Some teaching experience but not English related (Undergrad TA, tutor, camp counselor, etc)
NO teaching certificate
Want to teach for only 1-2 years
Speak bad Chinese with a Beijing accent (love the arrrs)
And (since its apparently considered) I am a 22 year old white (blonde, green-eyed) female

I know from the site that most people dislike the chain schools like HESS and that I am ineligible for public schools since I dont have a TEFL. So should I apply for private schools or through recruiters (I was thinking footprints)? I would prefer to have a job lined up before I fly off to Taiwan.

And last question:
Any advice/suggestions regarding Taichung (where I am considering)? Is this a good place to live? Can I save a little money? Any schools I should avoid or schools you recommend?

Sorry for the long post. Like I said earlier, I really want advice about my first question but advice about the second two would be great as well!
Thanks in advance!

BigWally · Posted: Thu Feb 26, 2009 4:03 pm Post subject:

start applying now, there is no harm in applying too early.

forest1979 · Joined: 10 Jun 2007 Posts: 507 Location: SE Asia

Your GPA or the subject it relates too is irrelevant. All that matters is you have a degree and hold a passport from an English speaking country.

globalgourmand · Joined: 20 Feb 2009 Posts: 23

BigWally · Posted: Thu Mar 05, 2009 9:16 pm Post subject:

Most good bushibans (read: ones you want to work for) know when their staff is coming and going, usually a few months ahead of time. This isn't a concrete fact, but a generalization.

If a school knows they are going to have openings in August then they want to have them filled a few months in advance, rather than waiting till the last minute. Having a name and a face to show prospective parents signing up for a bushiban is an important thing to many school admins, and parents.

Especially if its a pretty white face, with blonde hair. Wink

globalgourmand · Joined: 20 Feb 2009 Posts: 23

But what if I'm brunette?! Laughing

Thanks for the response, Wally.

JZer · Joined: 16 Jan 2005 Posts: 3898 Location: Pittsburgh

Nyx · Joined: 24 Feb 2009 Posts: 5

Hmm... not sure I like the idea that I will get hired because I'm a pretty blonde girl but oh well. I'll take what I can get.

Thanks for all the responses. If anyone wants to suggest schools in the Taichung area I would really appreciate it!