Job Discussion Forums

[Allizwell]

Does anyone happen to have any info on the current state of affairs at PSU's Foundation Year program in Riyadh; i.e., potential for hiring more teachers, salary range for North American NS with MA-TEFL and 3 yrs in the Kingdom, benefits, faculty morale, students, etc? Thanks to all.

[Cleopatra]

I worked at PSU several years ago. At the time I thought it was pretty bad, but having been round the block a few times since then, in hindsight I can see that it's actually one of the better employers in KSA.

Not sure how things are there now, but from what I've heard it's pretty much the same. The usual annoyances you find in any Saudi college, decent salary (though not the best), excellent holidays and housing mostly in the Diplomatic Quarter. When I was there, they were pretty lax about time keeping and 'reporting for duty' but like many Saudi unis, they seem to have become a bit stricter about this since then.

They had a stand at TESOL Arabia, so it seems they are recruiting. Can't hurt to apply.

[Allizwell]

Thanks, Cleo. You're always very helpful and informative. I've heard more or less the same things about the program. I've also heard the medical insurance is of the private variety, which is usually of high-quality and just requires nominal fees when receiving care. Overall, as you say, it sounds like it's probably one of the better options around Riyadh. I think I will apply. Cheers.

[tor70]

Thanks, Cleopatra, for the inside view of PSU.

You mentioned, however, that you thought at the time that the university was fairly bad. Could you elaborate on that? Would appreciate having the full picture. Thanks.

[nomad soul]

[tor70]

True enough, Nomad Soul.

As others, however, have pointed out on these forums, change in KSA moves at a snail's pace.

[nomad soul]

Oops! I meant PSU not PNU. Plus, Cleo hasn't posted on these forums in nearly two years. We don't see much about PSU on the Saudi forum. That could be good... or bad.

[tor70]

You are right. Most of the postings re PSU are older.

I have just finished reading all of the posts on PSU and I am left with a somewhat positive impression, albeit compared to the other horrendous tales of teaching in the Kingdom.

While I am eager to try something new for my sabbatical year and experience KSA first-hand (as that is the only way I will get to see the country), I fear that it will simply be too challenging a life for me. I will have to weigh my options.

[nomad soul]