Job Discussion Forums

[ramirez]

Hi there.

It’s my understanding that candidates who’ve worked in Arabic speaking countries are preferred for Mid-East universities, but what about those who’ve worked in Muslim, non-Arabic speaking countries?
I’ll be applying to universities in UAE for the upcoming hiring season, and after conferring with a few of my colleagues at the uni I currently work for, we are split between those who believe it would be inappropriate to mention religion on a cover letter, while myself and another believe that, as Islam is so interconnected with the culture, having this experience highlighted on a cover letter could enhance my marketability. I have a masters in Linguistics, over six years university teaching experience and worked in a Muslim country in West African for two years (non-teaching related). I’d appreciate any thoughts on whether it would be appropriate to highlight this on my cover letter.

[nomad soul]

Middle East (as opposed to Muslim) teaching experience is preferred by employers because of familiarity with the general culture of the region as well as English language issues/needs relevant to Arabic speakers. Teaching Muslim students in West Africa doesn't fit the bill. So no, it's not worth mentioning it in your cover letter. Be aware that for university positions in the UAE, you'd need at least 3 years of EFL teaching experience to go with your MA in Linguistics.

[veiledsentiments]

I don't think it matters all that much one way or another. They will be more concerned with your education and teaching experience and how that relates to what they are looking for...

I wouldn't include it in my cover letter, but I assume that this time would be mentioned on your CV. (employers don't like blank spaces on the CV, so you would want to include those 2 years there)

VS