Job Discussion Forums

Michael1710 · Joined: 30 May 2005 Posts: 16 Location: Mentally in Mexico

Hello Everyone,

I've been reviewing these forums for quite some time now. The insight and information provided is very beneficial. It seems the more I read the more questions I have. However, I do have some questions which I haven't found posted anywhere. But, first my background.

I am a 47 years old and single. I have two bachelor degrees. One in Marketing and one in Computer Information Systems. The past 12 years have been in the high-tech industry. Most recently 8 years with Dell Computer. During that time I worked very closely with teams from Malaysia, China and Ireland. Traveling to Malaysia and Ireland several times. I thoroughly enjoyed and was very successful in working with the international teams. I have a lot of experience working with diverse cultures.

Two years ago I was laid off. Which, after the initial sting, was okay with me. I was bored, frustrated and not very happy working in a corporate environment. Anyway, I took some time off did a little traveling, worked a few side jobs and did a lot of soul searching. Prior to college I was in construction.

Recently I began working with a career counselor to assist in a career change. After several discussions and taking tests, one of the career options suggested was teaching.

Teaching is something I've always been interested in and have some experience in. While in college I would pick up substitute teaching jobs at the local elementary schools. I thoroughly enjoyed working with the children.

Additionally, I was responsible for training new engineers, technicians and global team members.

I'm seriously considering the CELTA certificate and pursuing teaching ESL overseas for a couple of years, at least. Areas I'm interested in are Latin America and Asia. But, I have a some questions to begin with.

1. What are my options with bringing pets? I have a 9 1/2 year old Golden Retriever. She's weighs about 75 pounds and is very well behaved.

2. What issues should I be aware of about medications? I take two daily medications. They are mailed to me so getting them shouldn't be a problem.

3. What are my employment options? Based on what I've read in these forums the college or university jobs are the best path.

Any advice and information is appreciated.

Cheers,

Michael

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Asia is a big place, so I'll let you know about Japan, which is where I am.

Your education and work experience will not make you eligible for university jobs. You will only be able to teach in conversation schools here, or if you get on the JET Programme you can be an ALT in a public school for up to 3 years.

Bringing pets is traumatic for the owner and the pet. Read these links, and reconsider. Moreover, most landlords in Japan will not take people with pets, even if the people are Japanese.
http://www.maff-aqs.go.jp/english/
http://workabroad.monster.com/articles/bringingfido/

Michael1710 · Joined: 30 May 2005 Posts: 16 Location: Mentally in Mexico

Thanks Glenski,

I knew it would be difficult to get pets into the country. I've had her microchipped and titre tested (rabies blood test). The only thing needed is the US Dept Health Certificate.

I'm prepared for the hassle. The information on landlords allowing pets is good stuff.

Thanks,

Michael

tedkarma · Posted: Tue May 31, 2005 9:58 pm Post subject:

Thailand is an option. On a teacher's wage you'd be able to rent a small row house with a yard - which is what your dog would need. Thailand just requires the standard health and rabies certificiates.

Universities like masters degrees but sometimes settle for less if you present yourself well. However, unis and colleges tend to pay poorly.

You might look into technical writing - there is some need for that overseas.

Medications: probably MUCH cheaper in Thailand. Mail is unreliable. Or at least not reliable enough to trust your health to.

ls650 · Joined: 10 May 2003 Posts: 3484 Location: British Columbia

Jopuzzo · Joined: 07 Jun 2005 Posts: 1

Hi Michael,
I read your posting and the various replies as I am in the same situation. I have been looking into gaining my CELTA certificate and then teaching overseas. I'm looking into Eastern Europe, South Africa and Asia, namely Cambodia and Thailand. Just curious if you've found out any further information about taking your dog with you. In my case it would be a cat and I really wouldn't want to part with him, although my parents would take care of him while I was away. Any other suggestions or resources you have found would be very helpful from you, as well as anyone else in a similar situation. Thanks!
Jo

Kent F. Kruhoeffer · Joined: 22 Jan 2003 Posts: 2129 Location: 中国

Hello Jopuzzo:

With regard to bringing a cat to Thailand, this may be useful:

http://www.dld.go.th/dcontrol/move/menu31e.html

Please pay special attention to the requirement that your health certs must come from

a full-time authorized veterinary official of the government of the exporting country.

If you comply with that regulation, you'll have absolutely no problems with Thai Immigration.

If you don't, you might have some minor hassles at the airport.

Michael1710 · Joined: 30 May 2005 Posts: 16 Location: Mentally in Mexico

Thanks to everyone who has posted.

Life has an interesting way of changing your plans. I was in the process of enrolling for CELTA and I get a temporary job offer in the Cayman Islands. I'll be working with Love In Action, which is a ministry of the Cayman Ministers Association, repairing homes damaged by Hurricane Ivan.

I will have to leave my dog until I can find suitable housing for us. Apparently housing is still in short supply. Not happy about it but I have to pay the bills.

I would like to gain certification if possible while in the Cayman Islands. If anyone has information on certification in the Cayman Islands please reply or PM.

Again, thanks for the input.

Cheers,

Michael

coming soon · Joined: 16 Jun 2005 Posts: 47

Hey there,

Try contacting nolefan over on the China forums. I believe that he managed to bring his dog with him to China so he might be able to shed some light on the process.

Babala · Joined: 28 Jan 2005 Posts: 1303 Location: Henan

China info. You can easily find a job here in China. You are qualified to teach university here. You are able to bring pets into China. A teacher I worked with brought her 2 cats with her from America. I believe you will need a vet certificate that has been gotten within 2 - 3 days before your departure. I don't believe China has a quarantine period for pets but I am not sure about that. Good luck with whatever you choose.