Job Discussion Forums

[jamesb2014]

Hell all- new member, first time poster here....so thanks for reading. Before I get to my question, please let me lay out my personnel facts:

Ill be retiring from the military after 23 years (Ill be 43) and will have a monthly pension of about $2300 (after taxes)
Have an undergrad in business and a M Ed in Curriculum and Instruction (finishing that now)
6 years teaching experience with the last 3 years before separating in leadership and school management ...no teaching license though
TOEFL from San Diego State Univ (130 hours + teaching time)
Ive lived abroad in both Europe and SE Asia.. I have no problem adapting to new cultural.
Very active, fit, clean cut Caucasian male. Non married, no kids nor financial obligations. I generally interview pretty well.

Im looking to get into ESL mostly for the experience and adventure of it, and less so because of money...however this will be a long term thing for me so Id like to NOT have to cut into the pension too much. I wont have any debt so Id like to be able to ensure that the lifestyle and cultural experiences are quality. So , what Im interested in knowing is how my experience/ qualifications stack up compared to what countries are looking for and where should I focus my time looking (country wise). I dont have a preferences (yet), minus not going to the ME but Id like to jump from place to place with each new contact.

I hope Im not being too vague in my question here. If so please tell me and I will clarify.

Thanks everyone!

[Shroob]

[MuscatGary]

I'm assuming you're American so the EU is pretty much ruled out for you. With those qualifications why not try Korea or China?

[suphanburi]

[jamesb2014]

Thanks everyone so far... to answer the questions. Yes, American and yes I meant the cert program.

What I meant by lifestyle and experience is more about the experience living in the culture... not that Im needing a fancy life. I have lived abroad in Spain, Greece and Japan for many many years, and so I believe Ill have little issue adjust or getting 'spit out'.

I was under the impression after weeks of reading here and elsewhere that being licensed is mostly useful if Im wanting Univ work?

[spiral78]

TOEFL is a test of English language skill for non-native speakers.

Licensed teachers are required for international schools. Universities usually don't care -they are looking for the MA+.

Western Europe is not an option for an American citizen (as others have posted).


suphanburi is correct that the better positions in EFL go to teachers with local contacts and reputations. Jumping from one place to another ensures that you will remain at entry level, with the 'worst' gigs, schedules, and pay.

[naturegirl321]

Teaching licenses are usually for those teaching at international schools.

[nomad soul]

[Neutrino Girl]

If you decide eventually to include the ME in your search, you could probably land a nice job with ADEC in the UAE. They hire people specifically for curriculum design and pay very, very well and offer great benefits / lots of time off.