Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Jshuah72]

Does working at a unigwon count as university experience?

I guess more to the point will working at a unigwon help one get a university position if one can't get in otherwise? Most universities in Seoul seem to require university experience or an in somehow.

Although I already have a Masters in Ed., a few connections, a graduate level TESOL, and lots of teaching experience, though only a few years ESL, finding the uni process a bit frustrating...

Thanks for any advice...

[Paji eh Wong]

You sound well set up to get a Uni position. Getting in to one is difficult if you aren't already in the country, in a position. Being on the ground helps a lot.

What do you mean by Unigwon experience? Do you mean you worked at a hagwon in a University or you worked at a very commercialized University? Either is good, and with an MEd, you will be well recieved.

The process is supposed to be frustrating. They are usually designed to keep people out, not find the best people.

Good luck.

[mindmetoo]

Have you considered applying for a position inside Samsung or LG? I heard those corporate gigs are sweet, pay well, long holiday periods, but require MAs in Ed.

[GwangjuNewsEditor]

With your qualifications, I don't suggest settling for a Unigwon. It's a step down. If you have at least on year teaching experience at university level in the states or another country, it should be fine.

You will need to turn in certified copies of your degree, transcripts, perhaps even a video tape of your teaching. Make sure to show how professional you are in your communications. Be compelling, charming, and sharp. Wow them. They will hire Joe Shmo living in Korea vs. Mr. Superspecial ESL instructor.

Also keep in mind that the time to look for university jobs are November to February. If they have an opening in September (rare) they will begin looking in June, July and August.

My own personal suggestion is to avoid national universities of "excellent" reputation. With that reputation can come ego, and the sort of emotional testing they feel they can do with other Koreans sometimes is extended to the foreigners since, after all this is an "upper class university and you are lucky to work here." Admittedly, it's not always true, but there are sterotypes for a reason.

Private universities tend to be a bit disorganized unless there is a really amazing person who works as liason between the foreign and Korean staff.

Good luck.

[gsxr750r]

I'm part of the "unigwon" side of my uni, and believe it or not, the situation with my hours/classes has been better than my counterparts working under the English Department umbrella have endured. It's getting tougher for all of us, though.

I teach classes from both areas -- there is really no difference between the two, other than that I end up teaching more Fresh. students.