Job Discussion Forums

Elguapo_85 · Joined: 30 Jan 2007 Posts: 1

Hello, I am about to graduate with a BA in Political Science and Linguistics in May (in the US and I am a US citizen). I will have taken three years of Mandarin when I graduated (I am also fluent in Spanish, though I doubt that would be of any use in Taiwan). I am hoping to go to Taiwan to improve my Chinese. I would like to be able to take Mandarin classes for part of the day, and teach ESL for the other half. I do have a little bit of experience teaching ESL to kids, but I think I would prefer working with Adults (but who knows).

I am applying for a government scholarship from TECRO that would give me 700US$ monthly for a year to study in Taiwan. There is no guarantee that I get it. So my question is would it be feasible to go to Taiwan, teach English (with entry level pay), take some Mandarin classes and survive. I am not too concerned about saving money (thankfully I have no debts, but I don't have any dreams of making big money for now), I would just like to make enough money to pay my living expenses and tuition. Would this be possible if I did not get the scholarship?

Also, assuming I do not get the scholarship, what is the best way to get to stay in Taiwan legally? Would I just go, get a visitor visa at the border, then get a job and workers permit, than find a Mandarin School? or in some other order?

I have read a lot about various scams and things to watch out for when looking for an ESL job. Any advice would be helpful! Thank you so much. Elguapo_85

MomCat · Joined: 02 Dec 2004 Posts: 297

Hi Elguapo_85,

With luck you'll get your scholorship.

If not, get a 60 day visa before you leave. It's good for 2 years.

For you, I'd recommend the city where I work, Hsinchu. Because of it's lack of social life it's not for everyone but the Science Park is here and there are jobs teaching adults. Many of the adults I teach speak English well enough to have some interesting and in-depth conversations. Most of my students are under 35, many under 30. For the most part they're well educated and intelligent. Make friends.

Cat