Job Discussion Forums

[Smeagol]

Hi, Ithos and Peter

Peter, I'm just wondering if you realize that Ithos is 23 years old and apparently has never lived abroad? It sounds like you are not exactly in an urban area of China, and your description of your lifestyle seems to emphasize frugality. Yes, with his credentials, I would presume, from my (many) less than interesting telephone calls from Chinese recruiters because of having posted my resume on a certain website, he would qualify for "Foreign Expert" status and a reasonable salary (versus the cost of living). But should his goal be saving money? At his age, retirement is (presumably) a long way off, and he is likely to have some high earning years ahead, whether in his field of Environmental Planning, or another, given his credentials.

You say, if I'm not mistaken, that you're saving 6000 out of a monthly salary of 6500 RMB. Why would a young man on his first posting abroad even want to consider the lifestyle necessary to save that proportion of his salary? Yes, the work hours you describe would allow considerable flexibility to supplement one's salary; but will a novice teacher be comfortable arranging private lessons or a second job in such a culture, so alien to westerners?

I have no experience of China; however, colleagues and acquaintenances of mine in Thailand had such direct experience. It did not sound promising. To some extent, anywhere is what you make of it, but that becomes far easier with more life experience. I, personally, have just experienced trying to live in a culture that is not easily permeable to foreigners, and I have a great deal of life experience in adpting to diverse situations and cultures. It can be a most unpleasant experience be one of a tiny minority of foreigners amongst an unusually insular native population. And by all accounts, most of China is included among the least culturally-accesible areas of the world (politically correct euphemisms abound to avoid a flaming match).

Finally, I will simply repeat my original thought, Ithos, which was that, if I were 23 again (and add that if I had the benefit of foreknowledge of the vagaries of life), I would look for a situaton in which I could have some serious fun! But perhaps you are more mature than I am, ever have been, or ever will be...

[anyway]

I agree basically with the previous post. Saving money in any country takes some serious know-how and committment. You know the saying, an ESL teacher and his money are soon parted.

I think that all newbie teachers from the fine 'land of Ire' should be warned about one thing: their accent. While I can understand most (not all) Irish when they speak, some I cannot. Which means that students have that much more difficulty, especially if they are used to one of the other accents (NA, AUS, etc.).

So, your accent could have a profound impact on your experience inside and outside the classroom. While some employers might take the 'anyone I can get' approach, those employers with any kind of choice will probably have some countries (accents) at the top of their list and others at the bottom.

This might recommend less popular/competitive destinations, but really I only meant it as a word to the wise (newbie).

[eihpos]

I would consider Vietnam Simon. I`ve worked in Korea and enjoyed it too - think it`s the people you make friends with more than the country that makes a good experience. I was working far too many hours in Korea because I didn`t know any better! but that was my own fault. You can get a sweet deal there for sure.

However, out of the 2 I think Nam is good if you go with one of the big schools: ILA or Apollo - perfect for first time teachers. They really look after you - which you might not like the sound of but will appreciate when you are here. I save about 500 euro a month and could save more if I didn`t buy so many clothes. Social life is good - especially for a guy your age. Most people are in their early 20`s. Many just after Uni.

Another thing I would recommend is JET. But it`s too late to apply now for this year...maybe in the future. Good luck and if you have any questions about Korea, Nam or Japan let me know!

[Jetgirly]

I went abroad (Italy 05-06, Mexico 08 ) and returned to Canada to teach ESL in the public system. I teach 200 days each year and average less than seven hours of work each day (that's work total, not just classroom hours). My salary as a first-year teacher is $57,000. I have benefits coming out my ass, job security for as long as I want it, and I teach in a culture where education is valued. If I have issues I have a network of specialized coworkers, supportive administrators, genuinely great parents and useful community resources. Sure, I loooooved living in Italy and I enjoyed the challenges of living in Mexico, but this job gives me nine weeks over summer, two weeks at Christmas and a week in the spring. I could even transfer to a year-round school that would give me four weeks in the summer, two weeks in October, three weeks at Christmas and two weeks in the spring. I can do all my traveling during those breaks then come back to my cushy apartment, drive my new car and still funnel tons of money into savings for a house and for retirement. If you're looking for the best place to teach I'd say it's probably in your home country's public school system; the best place to LIVE, however, is different for every person.

[Marcoregano]

[ithos]

Thanks for all the helpful responses everyone, there's much to think about but for the moment my shortlist is Taiwan, and Nam(I'll look intoo ILA and Apollo, thanks eihpos), in that order, after a year of experience I'd like to give Cambodia or Laos a try but I'll just have to see how it goes =)

Being a 'foreign expert' sounds cool but I think again Smeagol's advice is solid, China, for the moment at least, doesn't sound like my ideal destination.

Out of interest is it American or English that is the most sought after in Asia? Or is there any preference between these?

Jetgirly can I ask what qualifications you've got besides your experience to get such a sweet job? Have you PGCE? A BA in English or Education? Would be nice to know I won't have to go back to college if I decide to pursue a teaching career when/if I go home =)