Job Discussion Forums

[Qaaolchoura]

So, I''m finally about to graduate. I already have a TESOL Certificate (SIT, reputable in class 120 hours plus >=8 hr teaching). I'd really like to go to Turkey. The only job I can find from the States requiring no experience is Bilkent, which seems pretty reasonable in terms of compensation. But given that they also pay for CELTA courses, I'd expect competition is rather stiff. I figure I'll apply to Bilkent any rate, (though I'm thinking I shouldn't mention my existing certificate). It can't hurt.

But assuming (as seems fairly likely) I don't get the Bilkent job, or any other from the states before the end of summer, the question is whether to hop Turkey and look for a job there. I've met people who've hopped a plane and found a job in Japan, China, and Thailand, and the ILI (where I took the course) tell me that they know a lot of people who've done this in Latin America.

Everybody I know who *hasn't* taught English abroad is telling me it's a terrible idea to look for a job abroad without having one lined up. But then they haven't taught English abroad. Several people I know who have told me that you run risks in taking a job sight unseen from Stateside. The working conditions may suck and one can make up to three times more if you try to find a job while in the country.

Can anybody who's taught English in Turkey tell me what they think? I've seen one post on this forum that says that going in June is a bad idea, due to a lack of summer jobs, but what about August? Is hopping a plane to Turkey an option, or should I really line up a job stateside, even if it means going to a country that appeals to me less, and running the risk of being in a place I can't stand?

Edit: Also, obviously I'd prefer not to spend a month doing another TEFL course, though if it gets me into Turkey, I will.

[billy orr]

A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush, I'd say. Try other private universities in Istanbul too, there are quite a number. Good luck.

[fishmb]

If you just showed up, I bet you could find some sort of job within a month. Setting up something outside of the country though is nice as some schools... mostly Japanese schools now that I think about it... will pay for your airfare.