Job Discussion Forums

vcarter706 · Joined: 05 May 2010 Posts: 11 Location: Los Angeles

Is there a general rule regarding when to apply around the time of graduating? I'm going to graduate on June 10th, 2011 and I actually really want to start teaching between then and mid-August otherwise I wouldn't be able to fulfill a one year contract since I hope to begin graduate school in August 2012. As I've perused various websites for different programs (mainly the Korean Hagwons since they offer the best starting dates) I've come across something that seems like it could be a dilemma. Many of them want proof of a degree during the application process, but since I plan on applying during Feb or march 2011 I will still be a few months away from attaining my degree. Will most programs not let me apply until AFTER I've received the degree? I realize that this question varies from country to country and from program to program... but my attempts to email programs have not gone well and I've only received a few spotty emails that only serve to confuse me. One of the options I could do is try take extra classes now and graduate in March, 2011 and thus allowing me to apply with a degree in hand. Since my time restraints (having to be back in the US by 2012) are impossible to change, does this mean that graduating a bit early is the best chance to get my application processed in time?

Now I guess while I'm making a post I might as well address my other concerns as well. I am the definition of a teaching newbie. I have no experience, no certification, and a non-teaching related degree. How limited are my options? It seems that there are many programs in Korea, Japan, and China that don't require any certification... but what about elsewhere? How limited are my options for Europe? Also, I actually have French citizenship (though I'm born in the US and lived here my whole life) and so working in Europe would not be a problem in terms of getting a visa.

I realize I'm asking many questions, but any advice would really help as I spend the next year planning everything out. Thanks!

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

How limited are my options for Europe? Also, I actually have French citizenship (though I'm born in the US and lived here my whole life) and so working in Europe would not be a problem.

The degree wouldn't matter, but lack of certification would. Jobs in the Euro region generally run Sept/Oct - June, so would not conflict with your study plans. However, a couple of things to consider if you think you might want to give it a shot here:

1. it's a competitive job market. Most newbies have a CELTA or equivalent. Anything less will put you at the bottom of the hiring heap.

2. European employers generally don't hire sight-unseen. You need to be able to come over and walk the streets to find a job. There are obviously start-up costs involved in this scenario.

If you decide to give it a go, I suggest planning to come over and take a CELTA or other on-site cert course in the country where you hope to start teaching. July/August is ideal, and then you are ready for the hiring scene. A cert course won't cost you more here than it would in the US, and a training centre can be a useful bridge into a country - they generally arrange for your housing during the course, pick you up at the airport, give you some local orientation, and can obviously give you invaluable info regarding reputable employers in the area.

vcarter706 · Joined: 05 May 2010 Posts: 11 Location: Los Angeles

I actually am going to study in France from August until December of this year, would that be a good opportunity to try to find something or is it too early? The only problem is that when I'm in France I wont have either a degree or any certification yet.

Thanks for the help! It seems like a great lead. I'll actually start researching this right now.

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

It sounds viable. You might pick up a few bits and pieces while studying, and then maybe plan to do a cert course asap.

You might also find a teaching contract Jan-June - sometimes openings do come up at the New Year.

vcarter706 · Joined: 05 May 2010 Posts: 11 Location: Los Angeles

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

vcarter706 · Joined: 05 May 2010 Posts: 11 Location: Los Angeles

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

Get a couple transcripts, open and scan one. It should say that you've obtained your BA.