Job Discussion Forums

[darlynebautista]

My boyfriend and I are seriously considering working together as ESL teachers in either Korea or Japan this coming summer of 2005. From the advice of my friend (who worked in Korea), I found out that it is not all impossible for this to happen. But, our case, however, is a little unique.

To make a really long story short.. my boyfriend and I met as travellers in the Philippines over a year ago. He is American and I am Canadian. Right now, we hold a long distance relationship.

My boyfriend has two 2-year associates degrees, is enrolled to gain his TESOL from a certified college this february, volunteers as an ESL tutor, and is studying japanese. If I may say so (without sounding corny..hehe), he's a great guy - open minded, fun loving, and caring. So, I know he has alot to offer as an ESL teacher.

I, on the other hand, will graduate from university with a Bachelors degree this coming April. I have worked with various immigrant and refugee organisations (locally and abroad), worked as an assistant early childhood educator at a daycare, and am volunteering as a language partner to international students at the university.

Now considering our differing qualifications and citizenship (and if race should play an issue I must add that he is caucasian and i am asian), I would like to know the likelihood of ..

1- us gaining a position as a couple at the same company or school
2- us applying independently of each other but ending up together in the same company or school
3- us applying independently of each other and ending up in the same city (being able to live with or near each other)

We're at a loss at what to do or where to begin!

If anyone could kindly lead us in the right direction (with websites, companies that allow for couples to apply, advice and/or information) - we would really really appreciate it.

Thanks so so much!

[Eleckid]

I think applying together to small private English schools as a couple shouldn't be a problem. At my school, we had a couple from the States before & another couple from England working here now. As long as they can work productively together then it shouldn't be a problem.

When there's a school who is interested in one of you, just tell them about your situation & send them you & your bf's resumes to the employer. I'm sure they'll be cool with it.

[PAULH]

[Glenski]

Just to add to what Paul wrote, on a dependent visa, you can only work part-time. Of course, if someone in that situation wants to take on private work, he/she can do any that he can handle to make extra money.