Job Discussion Forums

[haziran]

Hi all,

I have a question for the seasoned Omani expat teachers: I'm an American native speaker with no dependents, and I have an M.A. in TESOL. I have four years' overseas teaching experience (all of it at the university level) and about two more in immigrant ESL in the States (community college and volunteer organizations). Seems like from what I've read here, I would fit the profile for one of the better outfits in Oman, but I'm still concerned about one thing - I haven't been in the classroom since summer of 2004, effectively seven years away.

Will this hurt my chances of getting in at, say, U. of Nizwa, Sultan Qaboos U. or any of the other "direct hire" universities? I have already contacted TATI about the MoM jobs advertised on the job board here, and have received a quick reply saying I've been "shortlisted," which seems to be in record time considering they haven't even seen a diploma yet!

[urbanversion]

If your first time in Oman after a long absence from teaching and working overseas, be prepared for the culture shock first...esp if you are hoping to date girls

Second, the students can be such...well, it will depend on where you are placed and what level you are teaching, I pray you don't get stuck in some remote dustbowl teaching the bedu:(

GL dude.

[haziran]

Thanks for the tips, urban - but I still was wondering if you or anyone else thought the 7 years I've spent away from the field would be frowned upon by the better, direct-hire outfits. It seems the recruiters aren't too bothered by it - perhaps all they saw was that MA TESOL and didn't pay attention/didn't care about the absence - but of course I'd like to know what the "better" universities might think about this.

I've read a lot of negative things on these boards about the recruiters, but nothing I've read so far has really shown the differences between direct-hire and recruiter jobs. The pay seems to be the same, also. So I guess I'd also like to hear from people who've used recruiters, especially those with MAs (if they exist.)

Thanks!

[veiledsentiments]

If you are in the US, you should be on your way to New Orleans where SQU is likely interviewing at TESOL. As long as you can show that you were gainfully employed for that time span... and not... incarcerated or something ... it should be OK.

The recruiters are not bothered because breathing is their main qualification requirement as long as you suggest that you have a degree and their minimum experience. They need so many teachers that significant vetting isn't a biggie with them. (plus a large turnover as some of the branches are not terribly pleasant)

SQU does pay better than the recruiters and small private colleges. But, you might also look at them... they all have their little quirks/pros and cons too... you mentioned University of Nizwa. There are also a few private colleges around Muscat that you might want to google up and send off an application.

VS

[jydog]

Yo dog,

try al Buraimi college on the border of Al-ain UAE. They are serious about hiring qualified teachers with real degrees and experience. the lay off from teaching would actually be appealing to them. please dont go confusing dis wit the university of Buraimi which is run by ELS. MOD EDIT at buraimi college you get the best of both worlds: an excellent salary and benefits, a low cost of living and a quiet atmosphere with wonderful students. the scenery is awesome and when you want to have some fun, just skip across da border to Al-ain and have a good time.

good luck man

[urbanversion]

I hope you are not using that grammar with your students dawg!

Or the ministry may have to get all up in yo face and blast a cap in yo ass rude boy!

[ESL Guy]

You guys are funny

Seems most people in Buraimi dream of skipping the border to check out Al Ain - rather than the other way around.

Buraimi has the charm and decency of Oman with beautiful scenery to match.

The mountain ranges are breathtaking and I believe there are waterfalls in the area too.

If you love the outdoors, and good, kind, hospitable, down-to-earth people - you'll love Buraimi. Worth a visit.

As for work - yep.. the College seems sound. The University is far from it. Fact.

All the best good TEFL'ers.

[haziran]

Thanks for all the insider info, folks.

VS: I'm not in the U.S. currently. I suppose attending a TESOL conference is a convenient way to get a lot of interviewing done in a short time, but I've also known people who've never been to such a conference and have scored good gigs overseas based merely on their credentials and a good phone interview. I hope that still holds true today! As for the recruiters, I'm beginning to see what you mean about them - I get the feeling that the high-pressure tactics may just be around the corner. I plan to follow your advice and scope out the private colleges in and around Muscat, and only use the recruiters as a last resort.

Jydog: Thanks for the tip on Al Buraimi College, though it's a bit confusing because one is called U of Buraimi and another is called Al Buraimi University College. I believe the latter is the one you mean, correct? This one: http://www.buc.edu.om

ESL Guy: I like the idea of being somewhere calm, but being within striking distance of a decent, but not crazy, metropolis for things like shopping, grabbing an occasional beer, etc. I generally prefer eating local food (especially Middle Eastern/South Asian fare) and cook a lot for myself too, so I don't think not having a Western products at my disposal every day will be such a tragedy. That said, is there anything (ie a decent public pool, gym, hotel with pub etc.) for expats in Buraimi itself?

One question about Buraimi College before I apply: On their website, it talks about a "competitive tax free salary package offered to the right candidate having relevant education and experience." It doesn't specifically mention that housing (ideally a furnished apt.) is provided, though. Can I assume that housing is a standard benefit with an outfit like Buraimi or not?

[ESL Guy]

That's right Haziran,

Housing is usually supplied furnished and quite comfy, or as cash money (housing allowance) with which to find your own.

[Cairoteach]

I've known several instructors who enjoyed their time at Sultan Qaboos University. Also the housing is supposed to be a tad nicer there than some other places. Good luck.

[haziran]

Thanks so much for all your advice. I went ahead and submitted my CV directly to about eight universities, and have been happy with the response (meaning, I don't think my break from teaching will be an issue in getting a job).

Though I've no offer in hand yet, I'm quite interested in Majan College. Does anyone have any *recent* info on them? (I did a search here and the best I could find was from 8 or so years ago.) The college's website appears to be fully functional, with actual teacher bios and photos and working links, so that already seems to be a good sign!

Any info on Majan (and the city it's in, either Darsait or Ruwi) is most appreciated!