Job Discussion Forums

[JeffW24]

Hi Everyone,

I am planning on moving to Costa Rica in January to teach ESL to adults. I'm getting a little nervous as it has been harder to come by information than I thought it would be. I am posting here because I am not 100% sure I will go to Costa Rica and still may consider other countries in Central America or South America if it seems they would be a better experience for me.

I have a M.A. in TESOL from a University in Chicago.

Has anyone taught in Costa Rica specifically? How about the rest of Latin America?

Is a shirt and tie required everyday?
Is it difficult to find a job?
I have heard the pay is about 8 dollars an hour but I was wondering if it is more for a person with a M.A. degree.
Has anyone had trouble finding prescription medications in Costa Rica?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Jeff

[naturegirl321]

You might try posting on the Costa Rica or Latin American job board.

I taught in Peru for 6 years and there are other posters who have been and are still in latin America.

As for dress codes, it depends on the school you're at. I've been at ones where we had uniforms and others where we could wear jeans.

JObs are easy.ish to find, visas can be tough in some countries.

For Peru, the pay is often about 6 usd, though can be from 5 to 15. Again, depends on the institute. If you're teaching Business English, EAP, exams, etc, it can be more.

For prescription meds, be sure to get the generic name as well. I'd ask on Lonely Planet about the specific medication

[JeffW24]

Thanks for your help NatureGirl!

Jeff