Job Discussion Forums

breacan · Joined: 10 May 2011 Posts: 49

I would consider a position in any country, provided it was coastal and warm. I thought China would be best as they provide airfare and accommodation/housing allowance, and currently I make less per month in the West than I would in most of these countries, even if the wages were low. Since I cannot afford to fly to Asia first, I thought China would be a good place to start.

I was under the impression that the Middle Eastern countries wanted more experience and a CELTA first?

Also, is it preferable to get a housing allowance rather than accommodation?

Trebek · Joined: 30 Oct 2003 Posts: 401 Location: China

You are correct, I misread your job experience. You might not need a CELTA unless you plan to teach ESL.

Trebek · Joined: 30 Oct 2003 Posts: 401 Location: China

Yes China does pay for your ticket...eventually They reimburse you once you've fulfilled all or part of your contract.

You will also need enough money to support yourself for a couple months until you get that first paycheck.

Ariadne · Joined: 16 Jul 2004 Posts: 960

Re housing... I would suggest taking school accommodations, at least when you first arrive. While others may disagree, I think it will help ease your transition into China and the university. The other FTs can tell you where you can find mayonnaise or where to buy a mattress cushion so you don't have sleep on a slab of wood they call a mattress. (Beds in China are very hard.)

I've been lucky with comfortable apartments at all three schools I've worked for, and I like being close to my classes. I know you are thinking of getting a dog at some point and that would be a problem in school housing... probably. As usual, things vary in China and some schools might allow pets. Not all schools give you a housing allowance option, so if you decide to live off campus you might have to absorb all the costs.

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breacan · Joined: 10 May 2011 Posts: 49

I've found something in a location I would like to be in, teaching English and possibly other subjects, low teaching hours, accommodation or accommodation allowance, but pay is 5000 rmb.

I know there are going to be sacrifices trying to get what I want/where I want to be, but I'm not sure if salary is one of them. I am considering making an application anyway - any thoughts?

Ariadne · Joined: 16 Jul 2004 Posts: 960

I'd say go for it. You can live on the salary but you won't save too much. Being where you want to be and having the classes you want will likely be of more value to you than a better salary. There is a chance you could negotiate a slightly higher salary, but don't count on it. Make sure airfare is included in the contract.

Keep us posted.

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