Korean Job Discussion Forums

[ntwrightsmom]

I work at one-on-one hagwon in Seoul. My experience is limited, because I have only worked here for slightly over 4 months, but I am the only teacher with a master's degree. Recently two new teachers were hired, and they were given the block shift immediately. This made those of us working the split shift very angry. What should I do? Would it be reasonable to demand a block shift because of my education?

[PRagic]

1. Yes, demand the block shift, if not based on seniority, then based on your education. The worst that can happen is they say, 'no.'

2. Finish up your contract and get a job at a university or a public school, whichever is more to your liking. Waste of time staying where you are now, but a good way to get here and get the lay of the land.

Good luck to you.

[SirFink]

If you didn't want to work a block shift why did you accept the job in the first place? There are only about, oh, 30,000 English teaching jobs in Korea and you, with a Master's no less, accept a block shift and then complain?

[Milwaukiedave]

If you have already accepted the position and are working there your chances of changing the schedule are slim to none. That's something you should work out beforehand. Many of the 1 to 1 schools I've applied at have split shift because most of their clients come in early in the morning or late at night.

My advice is tough it out a year and then start applying at universities.

[ntwrightsmom]

I took the job, because I was really desperate after I graduated, and I didn't want wait. Of course, hindsight is 20/20.

Actually, I'm applying for at universities now. Thanks for the advice.

[halfmanhalfbiscuit]

They didn't hire you for your masters,they hired you as a native speaker.That's merely a bonus in selling you to the students,but it gives you no sway.

The new arrivals getting the block shift,yeah I'd be pissed too.It ought to go on seniority or fair rotation.

[yeremy]

I agree with Pragic. Working in a hagwon is a great introduction to working in Korea, but once you're done with your contract, move on. However, don't think that a public school is going to be heaven. If you move to a public school then you probably will have to co-teach and there is a ton of bureaucracy and paperwork for working in a public school, such as being asked to verify your diploma/s at least once a year, medical check-ups, drug tests which may be on the way, open classes, lesson plans to be filed away every day, etc. And the universities do not seem to be as heavenly as they may have been. You will likely have to start out at the bottom, even with a MA, and work your way up the ladder of experience and employer confidence.