Job Discussion Forums

[Allthechildrenareinsane]

Hi all, I'm an American w/ a BA in English and 2.5 years EFL experience in South Korea. I'm eligible for dual US/Italian citizenship (through jure sanguinis) and am looking to have my passport in hand sometime early next year (I have an appointment at the Italian consulate this December). I'm also going to do the CELTA course this summer.

Given the above info, I'm wondering what my employment prospects might be in Italy once I have my passport and am on the ground there? Would being a dual citizen pose any advantages or disadvantages? Would any other opportunities be open to me beyond teaching at private language schools? Any info or input would be welcome. Thanks !

[spiral78]

With dual citizenship and a CELTA, you are equal to but not greater than all the thousands upon thousands of UK teachers in Italy.

Experience in Asia isn't a big plus here; it's a very different job in many ways. Here's a thread discussing this: http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=95456&start=0

Without the dual citizenship, as a non-EU citizen, you would not be eligible for legal working permits, so the dual citizenship is a vital component, but it only makes you competitive at the entry level.

It would be VERY unlikely that you'd find a university or other higher-level job with your current qualifications. Expect to start at the entry level like all the others, and given time, you can build your experience, qualifications, local reputation, contacts, and language skills and you will then be in position to move into any 'better' jobs that come up in the area.

As a postscript, you say you'll have the passport in hand next year - do keep in mind that as a US citizen only, you have a 90-day legal window inside the Schengen zone (google if you're not familiar) before being required to leave the entire zone for 90 days before returning. You'll want to time your arrival in Europe to ensure that you're not going to be illegal.

[Allthechildrenareinsane]