Job Discussion Forums

[WanderAround]

I have wanted to teach for a few years now, and have started looking for places that will accept me, as I am a recent graduate.

However, I am becoming discouraged when researching what countries I even have a chance of gaining employment in due to my criminal record.

It was nothing violent or drug related. I received two DUIs within four years, and was charged with a felony. The last DUI was almost seven years ago, and I have not even had a speeding ticket since. Further, after completing the probation and rehab, I had the felony reduced to an A misdemeanor, although, the last time I pulled my record it still showed a felony.

Anyway, I am 32 years old, a US citizen, have a BA in geography, and am looking at courses for TEFL. However, before I invest a significant amount of money into a CELTA, I'm wondering if my past will always limit me in finding employment in this field.

I was in the middle of applying to the teaching program in Georgia, and they changed their policy regarding criminal records. So, I am pretty much limited to China and Latin America, correct?

I would actually prefer Latin America, but I also would need to be paid enough to survive, and I have a small amount of student loans to pay back. I'm still on the fence about China. The money would be better, but I don't know if I would like it.

What about Turkey? Does the country generally require a criminal check? From what I have read, it seems not. Anywhere else I am eligible?

I have searched through the forums on this topic, among others, but I decided to post my specific situation, in hope of advice, encouragement, criticism, and a means of venting my frustration.


Thanks!

[naturegirl321]

[westbrook1]

I believe that Turkey currently requires a clean criminal background, though I'm not 100% certain.

In the future, from what I've read, they WILL be requiring a clean record. 100%.

[WanderAround]

[Zero]

I'd head for China.