Job Discussion Forums

SeanPadraic · Joined: 16 Aug 2010 Posts: 6

I have a BA in History and will graduate with an MA in education in May. I have also spent the past 6 summers working at an overnight camp with kids aged 5-17.

I would like to teach abroad about a year from now.

In Thailand, would I be able to secure a job that paid well enough for me to live relatively comfortable as well as pay off my student loans (~$250/mo I think.)?

Or, should I just stick to Korea or Japan?

Ajarn Miguk · Joined: 23 Jan 2003 Posts: 227 Location: TDY As Assigned

If your plan is to teach ESL in Thailand, saving money could be a problem.

If your plan is teach in another subject area at the international school level, then saving money is more realistic and it would be to your distinct advantage to obtain some sort of state teacher licensing (assuming you are in the U.S.) before coming to Thailand.

Most of the better international schools prefer teachers with experience teaching in international schools but often this is relaxed because of teachers leaving, not showing up, etc.

SeanPadraic · Joined: 16 Aug 2010 Posts: 6

I will be certified to teach in New York State.

Is it realistic for me to hope for a job at an international school fresh off graduation with my master's with no teaching experience other than my student-teaching semester?

What if I taught ESL for a year or two? Would that count as experience or are they looking for experience teaching within my content area?

Ajarn Miguk · Joined: 23 Jan 2003 Posts: 227 Location: TDY As Assigned

The grad degree and state licensing will both be potential pluses for you. The lack of experience teaching in your subject area is a potential negative.

It could come down to how desperate the school is for a teacher in your particular area and if you are at the right place and time when they are desperate.

Getting experience teaching in Thailand is very important to Thai schools and even the international schools seem to favor it.

If you are really interested in teaching in Thailand, then come here and land a job teaching students here and start looking for better jobs. They are out there and with your qualifications, you'll never know when some school will be looking for someone with your background.

Sign up for the international school job fairs and interview at them. You may be pleasantly surprised if you do.