Job Discussion Forums

thecatspyjamas · Joined: 09 Oct 2007 Posts: 4

I have been reading these discussion forums for some time and seem to be getting a general idea of what to expect when I get to Turkey, but I just wanted to put my specific question to you guys - just to make sure my 'plan' is realistic.

I'm a 23 year old with a BA and will have a CELTA by the time I arrive. I don't have any experience teaching english, though I've taught political philosophy at university for two years (I realise this isn't Highly Relevant, but still?). If I arrive in Turkey around the end of October, would it be possible/ likely to find some kind of work fairly quickly? (even just something to tide me over financially) I gather this is not an ideal time to find work, but I can't really change it...

Also, would I be likely to have more luck in Istanbul or in some other city like Ankara? Istanbul is my personal preference at the moment (I LOVE huge cities), but I'm not set on it.

Thank-you so much for your help/ advice. This may seem to be hilariously far off in the future (it is only May...) but I'm in the process of organising my flights et cetera, so any opinions will be a great help with my decision making.

P.S. I don't care about paying off my student loan, so I'm not expecting to be able to do that.

randomgirl · Joined: 30 May 2008 Posts: 8

when i was first hired here it was mid-october, but i got my job because someone else who'd been hired couldn't take up their position at the last minute. you may well be able to find something, there are a ton of language schools in istanbul. it's likely enough somebody would still need staff.

tarte tatin · Joined: 02 Mar 2007 Posts: 247 Location: Istanbul

It seems that the language schools are busier during autumn and winter so you might stand a good chance. People are busy in summer going to their summer houses etc. and often take a break from English lessons. The end of October might be a little late, but a lot of language schools have quite a high turnover so vacancies come up.

Bring enough money to tide you over for a while if you intend to just show up here.

thecatspyjamas · Joined: 09 Oct 2007 Posts: 4

Thank-you so much for all of your time and tips. I've been thinking it over and I've decided to get some experience elsewhere before braving it in Istanbul, and then hopefully arriving at a more opportune time of year.

Writer · Joined: 31 Mar 2008 Posts: 31

I'm no longer in Turkey, but I stayed there 9 months from January to September 2005. I lined up 6 interviews in 4 days when I got there and got offers from all of them. Best would be to arrive towards the end of August - I think most classes started early September. But IMO, I think you'd still find a job in October. Worst time to go is beginning of summer, when students go on vacation. Hours are cut and it's difficult to work enough to pay the bills then.

It'll be more difficult if you go there without money. Almost all apartments are unfurnished (and I mean no stove, no fridge, no furniture) and they want 6 months rent. I didn't find any efficiency units (one room) available. Best bet would be to find an established teacher who needs a new roommate - ask around at whatever school hires you. Their "used" appliances/furniture was only fit for landfill.

yaramaz · Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2008 5:11 am Post subject:

Writer · Joined: 31 Mar 2008 Posts: 31

My information was obviously out of date. Thanks for the update!