Job Discussion Forums

[hewachter]

Hi there. I am a fairly experienced ESL teacher about to start a TESOL Masters on campus here in the States. I have taught 3 years in Korean hagwons, mostly with kids but some adult classes, taught adults 3 months in a Palestinian Refugee Camp {Jenin}, and am currently tutoring Saudi adults at a private language center here in Austin, Texas 20 hours a week. I have a Bachelors in International Politics from a U.S. university.
My plan is to get the TESOL Masters and head for the Middle East, most likely Saudi or Oman, as I need to acquire some significant savings. I am open to any country there, but do need to focus on savings. I have a very strong interest in the region and am also aiming to make good money and move up the ESL ladder. I should add that I'm a pretty thick-skinned guy with alot of travels and life experiences under my belt. I'm in my mid- thirties.
Reading these forums in great detail over the last few years, I am basically aware of the general picture they present. What I'm wondering is, if I get the Masters, are there ANY good jobs over there? I'm very willing to work my way up he ladder after attaining my MATESOL, but want to be sure its leading somewhere.
Many of the posts on here are rather negative and so many people seem to feel ripped off and degraded in their jobs. Is anyone getting treated professionally over there, feeling secure in their jobs and lives there in return for working hard and doing a good job? The Masters is a big investment of time and money, and I feel a bit nervous that even with it I may be treated shabbily or be no better off than I would be with a CELTA. If I do things the right way, attain the Masters and work hard in my future position, can I expect decent positions and some degree of professionalism? Also, in Saudi, Kuwait or Oman, could one realistically expect to save $25,000 U.S. a year if living fairly humbly? Your thoughts are much appreciated, truly. This is a huge decision and I'm not getting any younger. Thanks!
PS I am posting this on a few forums, hope thats OK!

[Ignatius Reilly]

I first came to the ME after just 4 years experience, 2 of which were in a private language school in Greece, and was employed immediately post Master's. So, I should think getting a job is perfectly feasible. AS faor money, Saudi offers better salaies than Oman and may be better for you to save money. The fixed exchange rate of ME currencies to the dollar makes it easier for Americans to budget. The pound has had a few roller coaster rides over the years, making it tougher, especially inits strong periods.
Don't expect to go in on top dollar though. You may find your more experienced colleagues are earning far more for doing the same job. Better not to compare but see to yourself.
Oman is a delightful country I have only holidayed in but I know salaries are considerably lower in the main than KSA.
My advice is to send your resume to a range of places and don't sell yourself short. You never know who is desperate at any one time. Even the best places can have recruitment crises.
Live carefully and you can save what you have said you wish to. The temptation to leave for vacations at every opportunity should be avoided though. Given the ME's location in the world it is tempting to go to South East Asia or Europe a lot. Try not to for a couple of years and you should be fine. Good luck.

[madrileno]

[posh]