Job Discussion Forums

[Jonikiro]

Hi, there. I've recently graduated from college with a degree in Communications. Just got my CELTA on Friday, so I started looking for work over the weekend. Been reading up on these forums in the interim.

Thing is, I've noticed most teaching jobs start up in September and October. I've still got immunizations and other things to take care of here in the states, so I'm quickly running out of time to get those positions. If I miss the start of the school year, I'm worried that I'll have to wait another 6 to 12 months just to find my first job!

Being wet behind the ears, I'm torn between taking the first flight out to Vietnam to try stealing a position before its too late or finding work as a burger flipper for a year until I'm more prepared.

My question is: Should I book those tickets now, or are there other positions available for upstarts like me during the winter months as well? I'd certainly like more time to get things ready (my Cambridge-approved certificate doesn't even come in for another 6 weeks), but I don't want to miss the boat and get stranded at McDonald's for a whole year.

[spiral78]

Quite a lot depends where you are looking. Vietnam, where else? Timing is not standard worldwide.

[Jonikiro]

Thanks for the quick reply. I'm aiming for SE Asia in general, but since I don't have the YL extension for my CELTA yet (and I've heard most SE Asian positions involve teaching children), I'm aiming for jobs with adult learners. I've heard Spain and South America have positions of that sort, but again, I'm not aware of the timing for different positions in the area.

I've also considered heading to SE Asia to get my YL extension over there, but again, I'd hate to get stranded over there in late October with no open positions to take afterwards.

[Jonikiro]

As a side note, I'm aware of the existence of "winter camps," but again, they seem to cater to teachers who can teach kids. I'd certainly be interested in getting a YL extension before winter if I'd be able to work in a position like that.

[denise]

Although the bulk of hiring may be done at the beginning of the academic year (which varies by country/region), there are almost always positions available.

1) Institutes that teach business English can get new clients/students at any time of the year.

2) Schools may need new teachers for the start of the 2nd semester--again, timings will vary.

3) There are ALWAYS places that need replacements for teachers who've done runners and/or resigned. You've got to be careful with these jobs, though. In the back of your mind, you've got to ask yourself why those teachers left. It could be that they just weren't cut out for teaching/living abroad, or it could be that the school has serious issues.

d

[Jonikiro]

Thanks for the reassuring reply. You make a good point in that mid-semester vacancies should be looked at with some caution. Any other perspectives on this issue would certainly help as well.

[tttompatz]

[Jonikiro]

Thanks, tttompatz. Your reply has lots of useful information. You bring up a particularly interesting point, though.

[tttompatz]

[Jonikiro]

Your replies continue to fill in the pocked, hazy image that is my future. I'm very grateful!

Paperwork seems to be my biggest hurdle at the moment.
-I already have my passport
-My CELTA certificate arrives in 6 weeks.
-A police clearance certificate will take 2 months.
-I can get my transcripts fairly quickly.
-I can also bring my BA degree, if needed
-Wasn't sure what a CBC was. Complete blood count?

It seems like I have much waiting yet to do. I guess I'll just practice lesson plans and read Scrivener/Swan in the meantime. Also, more research would help, it seems.

I suppose I can take this time to stay indoors and pale up a bit, as well.

[tttompatz]

[naturegirl321]

There are always last minute jobs out there. Try Dave's, TEFL.com and serious teachers. You could always register with a recruiter just in case. Best of luck!

[Jonikiro]

Hey, everyone. Sorry for the late replies. It was time for me to hit the hay and I've just woken up.

This thread has been immensely useful. Most of my questions have been answered, and I've been pointed in the right direction for points I still need to research further. I'll certainly look into positions that require only state level checks.

A huge thank you goes out to you, tttompatz. I know how frustrating it can be to answer the same question dozens, if not hundreds of times. The more I learn about answers, however, the I more I learn about which questions I should be asking. I can guarantee that you've taught a man to fish this day.

And thank you, Naturegirl. You've been a big help in both of these threads. I look forward to offering what little I can to you and everyone else on this board in the coming months and years.

[Glenski]

[Jonikiro]