Job Discussion Forums

[EJLipton]

Hello there!

I'm 23, have my BA, and have the option of going to Korea without getting certified (the school pays for flight, lodging, training) or taking matters into my own hands, getting the CELTA or TESOL (hopefully Trinity) in the country of my choice (Brazil, Thailand, Mexico, Indonesia...) and applying for work right after the course without returning home inbetween.

To all those experienced teachers, I need a little guidance. I know Korea would end up in savings, but would it be a better choice to get the certification and experience first, and then explore the Korea option? I have been told it is possible to find work shortly after taking one of these courses in the same country (BridgeTEFL told me this).

Thank you,

Elisa

[runthegauntlet]

This kind of just depends on what YOU want. Is there a country you'd really prefer living in? Is money an issue? Do you want to teach in multiple countries or just one country for one or two years before returning home and doing something else?

If you just want to do this for a year or two, picking the country you'd most like to go to would probably be the best route. If you want to do this for a while, getting a CELTA might open up more opportunities in more places. If you want to save some money with no upfront costs and try to get an idea if you actually like teaching and want to pursue it further, Korea might be the better choice.

In any case, try to do a lot of research on country specific forums before committing to any one course. Obviously, those places will tell you it's easy to get a job if you take their course. That's money in their pocket. However, even if that's true, is it a job you actually want to take? Would it provide you with enough to have the lifestyle you want and fulfill your teaching desires? Sometimes hard to ascertain such things online, but worth a shot!

[EJLipton]

Thank you so much, run!

I am leaning towards going somewhere I really want to go first (Mexico, Thailand), and unsure of whether I will pursue teaching after a few years, but it is definitely an option as I adore travel and learning new cultures.

For one or two years teaching, what certification would be necessary? From your post, it sounds like CELTA would only be for pursuing teaching for years to come.

Thanks again,

Elisa

[runthegauntlet]

[naturegirl321]

Some more quetsions to ask. Are these important?

Visas?
Flights?
HOusing?
Pension?