Job Discussion Forums

[pckbos]

Hello all,
I am a first time poster here, been reading/researching for awhile, but decided I should start getting involved. The forum members here seem to have a wealth of info. Where do I start?

Anyway, I am looking into TEFL and trying to get started. I have no formal teacher training. I am 25 yrs old and have a degree, with a minor in Spanish. I currently work in a large financial corp, and I've been getting restless and wanting something more fulfilling/things have become fairly stagnant due to the economy...I feel burnt out and need a change.

That is where TEFL may come in. I don't necessarily have a desire to become a teacher for my next career (although maybe that may change), but I do have a strong desire to get back into Spanish and I think TEFL could also be a productive break from the corporate grind. I have studied spanish since highschool and spent a semester abroad but have never been quite been able to become fluent. I have a lot of experience coaching and working with kids, so I think I have the aptitude and patience to teach; although I don't have actual experience.

Long intro, but onto questions/advice. I have read a lot about Certification and the CELTA vs online cert debate. For me, I would think online is enough (with hopes to get some workshop/teacher feedback included) or doing some volunteering first. Itto, ICAL and i-to-i seem the best. Thoughts? Hours?

Location: Mexico
My Uncle lives in Sayulita, so I was thinking a town within a few hours from there. Colima, Tepic, Cuidad Guzman, Guanajuato, or any other suggestions. Is this feasible? I would prefer a smaller city to GDL if possible. Anyone have experiences working there?
I love Spanish and Latin American culture and want to become fluent while living there if possible.

Jobs:
What are the best options for people new teachers? Younger kids? Business language classes? Are the towns listed above hiring?

Life after TEFL. For those who do not continue to teach or pursue their MA in TESOL, is the transition hard? Im not necessarily trying to get back into finance so a career change would be welcomed. Interpreter? Working abroad with my new language skills?

Well, sorry for the length I hope some will take the time to read it all and give some thoughts. I look forward to any feedback and hope to get the ball rolling. Thanks.