Job Discussion Forums

[gwynnie86]

I've been in Japan for 16 months (yep, not very long) and I'm already getting itchy feet. Yes, it's an easy job and the money is good (despite what some of you might say... it IS good money compared to anything I've earned before, and in the currect economic climate it would be very arrogant for me to expect more before gaining more experience)... I have friends here, I enjoy my life, I have a nice apartment and a good income from private lessons on the side. But these private lessons are leaving me exhausted - I'm out of the house 10 to 16 hours a day, barely having time to see my boyfriend (who I live with) or do anything else. This is leaving me tired, irritated and generally feeling as if I want to escape.

My man feels the same way, and we've been looking in to moving to Prague. I hear they have a bit TEFL scene, although they rarely hire online. We've been given places on teflworldwideprague's course, so we'd be moving there, doing the course and then trying to find work. I know the wages are a lot lower there, but so is the cost of living, and it sounds like a lot more fun. I've never been a Japanophile, just a traveller, and after reading Dogs and Demons I can't shake the feeling that so much in Japan is so very fake. My boyfriend lived in Prague as a student and loves it, whereas the draw for me (aside from the culture, beauty and exciting vibe) is being closer to my family and friends in the UK again. I miss them, although I don't want to go back to the UK itself.

I'm just wondering... do you think it's a bad idea? I could stay in Japan a few more years and save up some money, whereas moving to Prague will leave me with a lot less money but hopefully some happiness. I just wanted to hear your thoughts... is it good to get out early if I don't have plans of building a "serious" career in Japan? Is it irresponsible to hop from country to country with no savings? Any good/horror stories that might influence me one way or the other?

[Insubordination]

Start making concrete plans (include some savings in that). You both want to do it, so there's no problem and you have the right passport. If you're together, finances will be easier than a single. I would go for it. You can always go back to Japan later in your life.

[Mr_Monkey]

I'd be inclined to read Dogs and Demons with a critical eye, personally. Fake is as fake does, but it's the perception of the actions that determine authenticity.

Nevertheless, Prague does have a half-decent TEFL scene and is a good place to go. However, make sure that the TEFL cert you take is a recognised one - if you've been out of the UK for a few years, you'll likely find it initially hard to get a job outside of TEFL if you return. Only the Cert. TESOL and CELTA will guarantee recognition in the UK, should you wish to teach there.

I don't think anyone can tell you whether or not leaving Japan is a mistake - it's unlikely you'll starve elsewhere and experience in Japan is often viewed with suspicion by managers outside of the bubble. I think you could probably get a more balanced look at the situation by cutting down on the number of privates you teach, but again that's your decision.

[spiral78]

Keep in mind that the job competition is pretty high in Prague (thanks much to all those certification centres). You'll want to be sure you time your course and job search to hit one of the peak hiring seasons - end August/early September or Dec/Jan. for a January start.

So far as money, you (especially as there would be two of you) can pretty much count on making enough to live OK and to enjoy the city and occasional trips around the country. Rents are relatively high, and it will help that you can share the cost of a flat. Don't expect to be able to save much at all, though.

You are also likely facing split shifts and the need for private students in Prague - it's just the norm. 10 hour days, yeah, but 16, probably not!

In terms of living, it could be better than what you say you have now - so long as savings isn't important!

[flyer]

why not diych a few private lessons and get some more free time?

[Tzigane]

I am in nearly the same position, however I have been in Japan only 5 months...I feel neutral about japan, i definietely dont hate it but i know i dont love it...i am in a very rural part of yamaguchi, and work at an eikawa with a horrible boss, so i am currently very unhappy and bored and trying to decide my next step. The only positive I can see to staying in Japan is saving alot of money, which is not a good reason to stay. I have also been thinking of the European market, as I lived in the UK two years (am from canada) and really miss europe. however bc i currently only have 5 months experience and a degree, im thinking it will be diifficult to find a job! i am a traveller and am getting itchy feet sooooo bad as well!!!