Job Discussion Forums

[sotia]

Hi everybody,

Iam Greek, 43, hold a BSc and MA from British universities (none of them in TEFL or similar), have 11 yers of TEFL experience in Greece and a recently gained TEFL Certificate. Do you think there is a chance of getting a job in the ME? I would appreciate an answer. Thanks

[Atassi]

umm, I think so. Start applying to schools and see. I do know that there are many schools forced to hire locals now. If an educated european wanted a position, I think that some schools will probably overlook the fact that you aren't a native English speaker. I'm sure some of the others on this forum might be able to help you with the question of where is better to look.

Good luck.

[sotia]

Thanks Atassi,

I have to say I'm mostly worried about quals. I understand that unis ask for an MA in Ed., TEFL etc not one in Criminal Justice! like mine. Is it so?

[GabeKessel]

Excuse me, are you Greek as in "Greek ethnically" or are you a national of Greece? If you were born in Greece but have a UK/US/CA/NZ/OZ passport, you will be mostly treated as a national of these countries and not as a Greek in the Middle East. It would also help of you anglicized your name. James Stavros would be hired quicker than Dimetrious Stavropopolus( sp).

I had Greek Aussie friends who were teaching most places with no problems.

[sotia]

Yes, I am Greek!

Greek citizenship, nationality, passport, accent! (well not that bad!), everything. I don't look 'very' Greek though and my name is ok -doesn't end in poulos!-. I see that in some countries they are not very strict about this 'native speakers only' thing so I think I'll give it a try. Any suggestions?

[Bindair Dundat]

Your ethnicity is not a handicap; your lack of a convincing EFL qual is. You can try language schools, but your chances in universities and other top-paying jobs are pretty slim.

BD