Job Discussion Forums

appletini7 · Joined: 12 Mar 2006 Posts: 16 Location: Riyadh, KSA

Hi gang,

You don't remember me--I asked a few questions several months ago and you were all most helpful.

I've been in Riyadh almost 3 months and believe it or not, have adjusted well to the culture, like my job a lot and really enjoy my students! I don't work in a school, but in a company, teaching English to staff.

The fly in the ointment? The psycho flatmate from hell who also happens to be my teaching partner and with whom I share an office!

Now I could tolerate her madness if it were just at work, but 24/7 with a bipolar control freak is more than I can bear. The stress is taking a toll on my health (I'm developing a sleep disorder).

I've been requesting different housing for almost two months now and of course the request is moved from one department to another, and somebody is on vacation for a month, and then additional info is needed, etc. etc. etc. It seems to be the way things go here.

HOWEVER.. I talked to the head honcho on Sunday and I am supposed to have an definite answer tomorrow. If the answer is there is nothing they can do for me (which is bullshit because I know of vacant apts.) , I've still got a few days left on my 3 month probationary period and I have decided that I will resign (I can't live like this for another 9 months).

My contract is a bit ambiguous. It says shared 2 bedroom apt. or single (but what I keep hearing is that there is a 'waiting list' for the singles although I know for a fact that several are empty).

ADVICE, please? If I resign and go home, I face financial ruin in the USA but honestly, I can't bear this situation much longer. Is there a possibility of picking up another job here in the Middle East quickly or is it necessary to repatriate?

ADVICE, please.....

ps. Sorry to sound dramatic but I'm desperate!

Never Ceased To Be Amazed · Posted: Fri Nov 13, 2009 10:54 am Post subject:

I 'memper you, appletini7. Print out his post and present it to your management as proof of need to move...if they don't immediately agree..tell them that it's your notice of resignation.

YOU have the power...

NCTBA

Deicide

Stephen Jones · Joined: 21 Feb 2003 Posts: 4124

If you give your notice in you won't be able to look for another job within Saudi until you've gone home and will have to reapply for the visa.

eclectic · Joined: 09 Nov 2006 Posts: 1122

quote]In the sad EFL world there is the saying: there is always Korea, or, before you starve to death, do Korea.

Well, I can tell you 99% you wouldn't have to share a flat in Korea but I personally hate the place [/quote]

always korea.........btw, just wondering why you hate the place? maybe 4 the same reasons I do.....

appletini7 · Joined: 12 Mar 2006 Posts: 16 Location: Riyadh, KSA

historyman · Joined: 13 May 2009 Posts: 7 Location: USA

I had the same problem in Syria with a total raving nutcase. The solution: go on the defensive driver her nuts and let her beg to be moved out of the apartment, why should you ruin your life over this unfeeling pig? Good luck!!

Cleopatra · Posted: Fri Nov 13, 2009 2:07 pm Post subject:

Oh dear. This house sharing thing is just such a terribly bad idea for all concerned. For an adult to have to share a home with a stranger is bad enough anywhere, but in a place like KSA, which attracts a scary number of nutcases and where life can be claustrophobic enough to start with, it really is a recipe for disaster.

The trouble is, even with the best of intentions (?), it's going to be difficult for your employers to agree to your request to move, for the obvious reason that they will be setting a precedent and will open the door to others making the same request. That's why I say house sharing is a bad idea for all concerned (other than those making the considerable financial savings, which of course is what it is all about).

I hope things work out for you, but if I were in your position, I probaly would resign. I can tolerate bad circumstances at work, but my home (even if it's a shabby rented apartment) is sacred! I woudln't worry too much about how it would look on your CV- 3 months is a short enough period to gloss over, if need be.

scot47 · Joined: 10 Jan 2003 Posts: 15343

Sharing is not acceptable - under any circumstances. Ever.

johnslat · Posted: Fri Nov 13, 2009 2:24 pm Post subject:

Dear scot47,
When you're married, it's not only acceptable, it's mandatory.

"It's always more fun
To share with everyone
It's always more fun
To share with everyone
If you have two
Give one to your friend
If you have three
Give one to your friend and me
It's always more fun
To share with everyone
It's always more fun
To share with everyone
If you've got one
Here is something you can learn
You can still share
Just by taking turns
If you've got a ball
Bounce it to the gang
If there is a new kid
Invite him out to hang
If you've got one sandwich
Cut that thing in half
If you know a secret joke
Tell it and share a laugh
If you've got two drumsticks
Give one to your friend
Make one beautiful rhythm
Share a beat that never ends
And if you're feeling lonely
Share time with your mom
Share some milk and cookies
And sing the sharing song
It's always more fun
To share with everyone
It's always more fun
To share with everyone"

Regards,
John

Cleopatra · Posted: Fri Nov 13, 2009 2:28 pm Post subject:

Deicide · Posted: Fri Nov 13, 2009 2:37 pm Post subject:

Off to Korea.... Shocked

johnslat · Posted: Fri Nov 13, 2009 2:47 pm Post subject:

Dear Cleopatra,

Thank you for sharing that.

Regards,
John

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

waiting4visa · Joined: 27 Oct 2009 Posts: 14 Location: U.S.A.

be patient....they will change your flat....they would never want to lose a great and happy teacher....hold on a little longer...I feel optimistic