Job Discussion Forums

[Surrey100]

Hi. What are the chances of a newly qualified teacher finding work in HCMC? I have a BA, TESOL Certificate but NO experience and wish to go to HCMC to teach. Vietnam is the only country I wish to teach in really for now so if there is a chance of me finding employment then I will go. If the chances are slim for a newly qualified teacher then I will go elsewhere for a year, get my years experience, then go to HCMC. Please only respond if you know for sure as what you write may influence my decision to go and may cost me a return airfare. Also are there any favoured times of year to get employment? I was planning to go in about six months time. (I wish to work in the UK for another six months to get a nice sum of money in the bank before I go). Thanks in advance for any help, advice etc.

S

[Mr Wind-up Bird]

You'll have no problems whatsoever, just make sure you arrive in time to start work after the Tet holiday when the schools reopen. PM me if you have any questions.

[antran1976]

Hello Mr Wind-up Bird,

Like Surrey100, I have a four-year college degree, a TESOL certificate from Oxford (US), and no formal EFL teaching experience. However, I am a Viet Kieu (overseas Vietnamese) and have been living in the US for more than 17 years. Do you think I will have problems finding ESL teaching jobs there (VN)?

I will arrive in HCMC this early August and am bringing with me many books as well as teaching materials. I do love to teach English and that's why I am heading there. Do you think I can earn as much as a non-Asian teacher can? If not, how much less?

I guess as a VK I will be at a disadvantage in term of good jobs and good incomes. I am thinking of going private (be my own boss!) and not to have to work for anyone (I also speak Vietnamese fluently, if that helps). Your feedback (or any knowledgeable person currently teaching in VN) would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.

An (Leslie) Tran