Job Discussion Forums

[allyxoxo]

... and would love some country specific advice! I've been considering English teaching as an option for some time and have finally decided that I want/need to do it. I thought these forums would HELP me but I've been way, way overwhelmed! I was pretty sure that I wanted to move to Hong Kong but now I'm concerned about my ability to find a job. Plus everyone loves something, hates it, can't make any money, knows people who are raking it in, &c.
I guess my question is: a) what's the likelihood of getting a decent paying job (>US $6,000 debt currently and would like to save some cash), b) how is everyone enjoying the lifestyle, and c) if maybe I wouldn't fare better somewhere else instead (I know, you don't know me, but I'm sure you know hundreds like me).

I'm a recent(ish) grad with a B.A. in English Literature from a 4 year university in California (I heard that there's a demand for English Lit?).

I'll be CELTA certified by the time of application but have no real experience. I don't necessarily plan on teaching for life but am fairly certain this will be a few-years gig.

I'm a 24 year old girl.

I've visited a lot of SE Asian countries and find it trying/amusing to get around. I imagine Korea and China to be similar but am nervous about them after reading the forums on this site. Hong Kong is sounding pretty good in terms of actually living but could be expensive.

I don't lead an extreme lifestyle in any way but require a decent social group and like to go out on weekends.

I'm sorry, I know a lot of these things have been answered in one way or another but I would love it if you might reply here as well! Basically what I need is a best friend in Hong Kong...

Sidenote: I'd love to go in journalism/publishing eventually (I have experience) and would like a decent shot at writing for an expat mag, English language paper, or even crappy school newsletters. Think I'll have any luck?

Best,
Ally

[scorch]

Hong Kong can be a bit of a hassle finding a job, but as a 24 year old female, you should be able to swing it without too much difficulty. It's just the bureaucratic steps that make it a pain. You could easily get a job in South China. You could work in South China while jumping the hoops for a job in Hong Kong. Make the move, you won't regret it. Don't worry too much. You will be surprised how easily things go, especially if you go to China. I was worried before I came over, and now I realize it's just the element of the unknown. I took a TEFL course in Zhuhai and had a good job set up after only two weeks into the course. It's a lot of fun.
People are nice. Go for it!

[anyway]

Always remember that everyone starts from the same place. Square one. You can't possibly know everything, avoid all pitfalls, etc, from the get-go.

I think your CELTA is a good start, but your lack of experience will be a stumbling block, especially in a country with a glut of teachers. First, get your priorities straight and it will help you filter thru the ads.

Are you willing to take kindy/primary, split shifts, whatever?? Working split shifts and/or long hours (25-30) can really put a damper on the social life. Ads for teaching adults sometimes want experience, specifically with Asian learners.

Not sure how often they hire from overseas in HK (given the steady stream of tourists and local expats), but I doubt it is nearly as much as Japan, Taiwan, Korea, etc. Those are the big 3 where many newbies can get hired from abroad, cut their teeth, and manage to have fun and save some money too.

South China Morning Post's classifieds section is a good place to look for jobs in HK...