Job Discussion Forums

[jenny74]

Hello. I am taking the TEFL International course in Alexandria this August and was wondering if there are many EFL jobs in Alex. Also wondering if bringing $5,000 USD is enough to support me for a few months. Is there anyone out there that has taught in Alex? Any info or advice would be most helpful.

Jennifer

[veiledsentiments]

Have you don't a search? There has been a lot of discussion about this program and the situation in Alex.

I would not 'bring' that much money with you. Use an ATM card!! It is good to have access for a large amount just in case, but I would not have that kind of money in my flat or purse.

VS

[jenny74]

yes of course. I was planning on getting an International Bank Account. And yes, I have done research but I've found dispartities. Isn 't it best to simply ask someone who is teaching there instead of reading article after article after article?

[veiledsentiments]

Of course? I assumed that when you said that you were bringing $5000, it meant that you were bringing $5000. I'm not sure what you mean by an 'international bank account.' I lived overseas for years and had the same account back in the US in a local bank for over 20 years and used the ATM card abroad - once they were in common usage.

Do you expect everyone who has posted to keep posting the same things again? None of the threads are very old. There are at least three of you now who are on their way at the same time and the other two have been asking question for the last few months.

The more you read the more you learn... rather basic concept for an educator. So, I'd say that you would learn infinitely more by reading... as there may or may not be any posters on line at the moment from Alex. And they may have thought of questions that hadn't occurred to you. As you have pointed out on another thread, there are not that many expats there. Sekhmet is our long time Alex poster, but she is very busy these days and doesn't often pass through.

VS

[jenny74]

Thank you for your reply. I have read the threads. I guess I was just looking for some reassurance that there are in fact enough jobs in Alexandria. Like I said, I have found dispartities. I seem to have annoyed you. I was simply reaching out. Everything will work out exactly as it is suppose to. So, I'll wait until I am in Egypt to have my questions answered. Thank you for your time.

[veiledsentiments]

I don't think anyone can assure you that you will be able to find a job there, who knows how the market will be by the time you finish. Many are able to support themselves with private lessons, especially those who enjoy working with children. Much depends on what your lifestyle and financial requirements are. Egypt can be a difficult place to live if one expects the same or even a similar lifestyle as 'back home.' Things we consider basics - like hot water in the kitchen - are considered luxuries and are normally found in the more expensive flats.

If jobs are short, you can always head to Cairo. It is more expensive, but has more possibilities. Or if you have a bit of money to fall back on, you can wait a couple months and more jobs may open. You can use the slow time to explore Egypt...

VS

[jenny74]

You have been most helpful VS. I have read many of your responses on this forum. I am not concerned about luxury and can live with very little. I was a Peace Corps volunteer in rural Ethiopia where I lived in a modest house without indoor plumbing. As long as I can pay my rent and feed myself and put a little aside for a rainy day I will be happy. My mind is open to Cairo as well.

[veiledsentiments]

I do think you will find that Egypt is definitely a step up from Ethiopia - or perhaps I am being unfair. But, I know the Peace Corps doesn't spoil its staff with unnecessary luxuries.

I think you will do fine. Sekhmet will disaggree with me, but actually I prefer Cairo, since my interests runs to ancient Egypt, and Alex is too modern for me. (built by the Greeks, you know... pretty modern in Egyptian historical terms...) But, Cairo is terribly polluted these days. Lots of trade-offs... It would have more people who can afford private lessons to keep the bills paid.

Good Luck...

VS

[jenny74]

VM? Could you tell me what "short listed" applicants means? I see this on a lot of job ads.

[stoth1972]

Short-listed: only those seriously being considered. I think it typically means you'll have an interview, no? Saying that, I've been shortlisted, and never called for an interview <sigh>.

[veiledsentiments]

Yes, shortlisted means that your CV looks acceptable, and you are likely to be called in for an interview. Of course, sometimes they find what they want before they even get to interviewing you.

So, it's good news, but not necessarily great news.

But, too many employers are notorious for not telling you that they will NOT get back to you.

VS

[Sekhmet]

I always seem to end up in these discussions when most things have already been said! Oh well.....
To add to what VS said - it's a good idea to start looking for work when you're already in the country if you have no teahing cert. or experience. Most foreign-hire schools are reluctant to hire people without being able to prove they can teach! But there are lots of places that will hire you from inside Egypt, fresh out of the course (not exactly what happened to me, but I've known a lot of people who managed it...).
The average wage is fine for affording rent and food and the occasional night out - providing your tastes aren't too expensive. I'm looking after 2 cats and a boyfriend on mine!
Sekhmet

[jenny74]

Well, I have a BA in English, taught EFL in the Peace Corps and currently teach ESL to pre-literate Adult African Refugees here in the states. I was also a Program Coordinator for EF Education. I have much confidence in my teaching abilities but I expect I'll have to start out with a low paying entry level job - which is fine with me - just as long as I have a job. Thank you for all your help.

[Phillyguy]

For a reasonable qualified native speaker like you, there's plenty of jobs. You could basically walk into any school and get a job. Salaries average around 2000LE/month. It's enough to live very comfortably, but not much more.

[jonnyidaho]

jenny74

I think with 5 grand you won't need to worry about finding work until next spring! I don't know anything about Alex, but you've got some great qualifications. I can't imagine you'll have difficulty finding work.

I'm landing in Cairo Aug 1 with 3000 (mostly in the bank, VS), and I'm feeling quite good about my financial situation. My 'wife' has been in Cairo for a week now and hasn't spent more than 75 dollars.

And in-line with VS, I'm using my Wells Fargo account here in the States, with debit card. I did this during a year in Thailand with no troubles. wells fargo has a good online banking system which I've been using to pay student loans and check my account/bankcard activity. One drawback that I know is going to start irritating me the longer I'm in Egypt and the lower my savings fall is that wells fargo charges 5 USD per overseas ATM withdrawal. I'm looking into getting an account with a bank that doesn't hit you that hard on fees everytime you make a withdrawl. any thoughts anyone?

phillyguy, I'm a bit baffled on how to live comfortably on 2000 LE. My wife's been apartment hunting in Maadi and we're looking at around 2000 LE for rent, which is in-line with what you call an average salary. I suppose if I can get 3000 LE (although I'd really like more of course) to go with my wife's 5000 then we should be all right.