Job Discussion Forums

nonentity247 · Joined: 24 Apr 2013 Posts: 2

Hello,

I'm in need of some general advice about how to get started teaching abroad. Only here's my situation:
-I am an early career TESOL professional in the U.S. (Philadelphia)
-I have my Master's degree in TESOL + a Bachelor's in secondary education and Spanish (Spanish is my second language, but I'm advanced)
-I have Pennsylvania teaching licenses in ESL (K-12), Spanish (K-12) and English (7-12)
- I've taught full-time in PA public schools for 3 1/2 years, and I have a host of other ESL teaching experiences both urban and rural (university IELPs, community-based, etc.) I even work in bilingual research now and adjunct a night class on best practices for working with ELLs.
I feel like I've done a little bit of everything except teach abroad! It's been my dream for so long, but I always let myself get caught up in all the opportunities (and responsibilities) here in the U.S., now I'm worried that ship has sailed...Because I've built up this modicum of experience (and student loan debt!) I just don't think I could "blow with the wind." I would need a legit job that could earn a living wage, for at least a year, and I have no idea how to begin an international job search. I will appreciate any advice!

My ideal would be to live and work in a Spanish-speaking country, but I understand that might be a tough job market. Asia would be my next choice because I've had so many inspiring students from Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar/Burma, Nepal, China, South Korea, etc., etc. I know South Korea is supposed to be the place where you can earn the most, and I wouldn't rule that out...but my priority besides just having a legit, decent-earning job, is also to live a little (not work 60 hours a week -- I've done that for too long here in the U.S.)

Thanks very much in advance!

Sashadroogie · Posted: Wed May 01, 2013 6:00 am Post subject:

Put your CV up on various job sites, including Dave's. MOD EDIT Apply for whatever seems to match your profile.

Getting a job abroad is not so hard. Getting a decent one is, though. So be prepared for a major change in nearly everything, especially in terms of quality. From management to infrastructure to accommodation. There is always an element of risk involved, so you will need to weigh things up as carefully as you can before you choose. Your own attitude and degree of flexibility will be crucial. In all cases, however, no matter where you finally go, make sure you have enough funds with you for any emergency, in case things go wrong and you need to bail.

Have you considered Russia? A wonderful place! A joyous land! Could be decent teaching opportunities with Young Learner classes.

Best of luck!

nomad soul · Joined: 31 Jan 2010 Posts: 11454 Location: The real world

nonentity247 · Joined: 24 Apr 2013 Posts: 2

Thank you for the advice. I will take it as I prepare to launch into online job boards. I actually just got a job offer the other day for Central America but decided to decline, because, in keeping with the advice here, decided it wouldn't be the best fit (after a lot of research and reflection).

I hadn't considered Russia, but I'll keep it in mind if Latin America & Asia don't pan out. A warm climate would be nice, but I'm realizing that the quality of the job and especially mobility (ability to do some weekend traveling) are most important to me.

Thanks again!

cheezsteakwit · Posted: Fri May 31, 2013 7:36 am Post subject:

http://forums.eslcafe.com/job/viewtopic.php?t=102152

ttompatz gave some good advice (as usual) & posted some good links on the above thread for researching international school positions.

I am also a certified teacher from Philadelphia, but with an MA in Education.
I've been in Korea for the past 15 months, teaching at a public high school and I really enjoy it.

I can't discuss Korea on this forum, BUT, you could get a cushy Uni. job with your qualifications, or get lucky with a good public school position, like me. I have complete freedom to teach whatever I want in my classes. (NOT the norm)

I plan on making the jump to Uni. after this contract, for one year, then exploring my options elsewhere internationally.

Also, I'm 41 years old , so I wouldn't worry about if "your ship has sailed".

Just build yourself a new damn ship !!! ... & go WITH the wind .

Good luck to you.