Job Discussion Forums

[Howie]

I have a BS and an MA - both in geography. I have a decade of teaching experience (in geography) in the Community College system in Southern California. I'm considering getting a CELTA and then teaching in China, preferably at a university. Is getting a CELTA a good idea or am I good to go as is?

[Eyrick3]

You have a lot of teaching experience, as well as graduate degree, so you're in pretty good shape.

Having a bit of extra training, however, won't hurt. Teaching English to non-English speakers is a bit different than teaching geography to native speakers, so a bit of experience in this field may help. I think, though, that's a personal choice, as many schools will hire you without the TESOL cert.

[sui jin]

Good to go, definitely. You are in much better shape than many FTs over here. You can do the CELTA after teaching here a couple of years if you want to continue in the ESL field.

University teaching here is easy, with plenty of prep time and thinking time for planning lessons and learning from your mistakes. Do lots of research to find a good college here, and speak to the current FTs to make sure there are no major problems.

Have a checklist to ask: accommodation, how is the FAO, how is the English or Foreign Language Department, do you always get paid on time, what students do you teach, what subjects, do you have internet access. No place is problem free but contented FTs are the best sign you have found a good place.

[drjtrekker]

Howie,
just curious, which college in so cal?


jd

[Laurence]

@OP -

[bradley]

I've never heard of a CELTA huritng anyone but you are definitely marketable already. It's not difficult to find a job at a university in China although it may be difficult to find a good job. There are so many universities in China you need to first narrow your choice down geographically unless you are open to anywhere.