Job Discussion Forums

[annunziatam]

Hi all, any advice would be greatly appreciated. I am 26 years old i have a bachelors in marketing with a minor in international marketing from NU in Boston, Ma. I have worked for two very large well-known companies in telecommunications, however dont find alot of passion in my work. After, taking a family vacation to Italy, it opened my eyes to a whole new culture and way of life. I have wanted to move back and live there ever since. Italy is my first choice and then japan, china and thailand. Also, is it possible to move around every year or so? I dont have a teaching degree, but am very well-educated. Any advice, suggestions, or country info would be great!

Thanks all

[spiral78]

You'll have problems getting legal work in Italy as a non-EU citizen. I suggest you go to the Italy forum (you'll find it on the Job Discussion Board if you just scroll down) and read about North Americans and job prospects in Italy. There is lots of info there on this issue.

I think the other countries you mention are much more realistic in terms of legal job prospects.

You'll also need to consider some entry-level training in teaching languages. It's no longer enough to simply be a native English speaker, no matter how well-educated - it takes some specific training to get jobs with reputable employers in most locations.

[Glenski]

Most newbies here in Japan have the minimum qualifications needed to start teaching:

a bachelor's degree in any field.

You qualify.

Jobs are almost always for a year, so that matches your desire.

The market here is full of teachers, though, so in the past 2 years it has become quite competitive. Come to the Japan forum and ask around with specific questions. Essentially, you're qualified for entry level work:

ALT
conversation school (eikaiwa) instructor

When do you want to start work? April 1st is the start of the fiscal and academic year here, so right now is the busiest time for job hunting. You might also want to look into the JET programme, but they hire only once a year and you missed the deadline for 2010.

[caffe]

Japan has a really unique feel and charm that is hard to put into words.

Either way, wherever you decide, like most places, it's really wise to know a place first for about a month without the pressures to get work, teach, etc.
Get the feel, and go back fully prepared once you decide on the place.

[lummerlaoshi]

You wouldn't need a teaching degree to teach in Japan, Thailand, or China (but a TEFL or CELTA would be helpful...only takes two to four weeks depending on the program). If you're in love with Italy, then go for Italy. Japan, Thailand, and China are quite different and may not suit your tastes if your heart is set on Europe. With a bachelor's in marketing, teaching business English is also an option.

[scrog_420]

[dharma86]

...burn

Well you're clearly not going to employ the OP

Try Italy first, then head east.

[spiral78]

The OP is a US citizen and it is highly unlikely he/she can get legal working permits for Italy. Are you guys all advocating working illegally??

[Glenski]