Job Discussion Forums

[rico r]

I am brand new to this forum and the field of TESOL. If anyone has experience teaching for any of the organizations below, I would appreciate your opinions and guidance. I would eventually like to gain some experience abroad (even if that involves volunteering my time), but I would like to avoid any disreputable organizations. Here are some of the organizations I am considering: http://geovisions.org/ http://studyabroad.bridge.edu/teach-abroad/ http://www.goabroad.com/

Can anyone confirm or deny the legitimacy of either?

Thanks!

[suphanburi]

How high is up?

IF you want to work abroad as an EFL teacher then some particulars on your part are necessary.

Their legitimacy is related to your qualifications. If you don't have the paperwork to get legal then regardless of how legitimate the organization is your opinion may vary.

The "where to go" will depend a LOT on:

a) your country of passport (Americans can pretty much rule out the EU)

b) whether you have a bachelor degree or not (pretty much a requirement for a visa and/or work permits as a teacher abroad)

c) whether you have a clean police clearance or not (more and more counties are denying a visa for those with ANYTHING showing on the background check.

The bottom line, at the end of the day is use recruiters for what they are: an introduction to a job.

They do not work for you. They work for the schools they recruit for and their bottom line is the bottom line.

Due diligence in reference to an employer is YOUR responsibility.

NEVER, NEVER, NEVER pay to volunteer or pay for a recruiter to find you a job placement. A sucker and their money are soon parted.

.

[peripatetic_soul]

Hi, Rico,

We don't know what your academic credentials are but if you possess the minimum of a related Bachelor's degree and some ESL/EFL teaching experience, your opportunities widen significantly. Without these minimum credentials, one can generally land a "backpacker's" position (e.g., at some language mill that pays very little). As SB cautioned, never ever pay any fees, not for a visa, not for anything. If you choose to accept a volunteer position, you should at least receive a stipend or be provided housing and meals with a host. I'm aware of those links you provided. AVOID! DUE DILIGENCE is imperative.
Good luck.

Regards,
PS