Korean Job Discussion Forums

[fromtheuk]

Sometimes, here in Korea I do feel quite privileged.

I can honestly say this is the best job I've ever had in my life (what a sad existence fromtheuk).

But seriously, it is the best job I've had.

Even as a graduate, finding a good job in England has always been a struggle. My last job was in a call centre, and that was a real dead end, miserable job.

I feel privileged in Korea, because I have moments where I realize I am working in the public school system of a 'successful' country, even though I am simply a graduate.

I don't like bitterness, but it makes me feel a bit miffed when I realize the best job I have ever found in my life has not been in my own country.

It's also quite pleasing to know as a graduate of Pakistani descent, I faced no difficulty in getting a job as a native teacher in Korea. Admittedly, the Korean Embassy in London delayed my visa, because when they saw my facial hair and eastern appearance, they feared I was a terrorist.

But what I was impressed by was the ease with which I got this job. Beforehand, I still suspected teaching jobs in Korea were a big hoax.

It's true Korea doesn't portray itself as a multicultural nation, tolerant of diversity like Britain, America, Canada etc. but in my experience getting a good job here in Korea has been much easier than finding a quality job in England, my own country.

I'm not into having a chip on your shoulder, but for a country that doesn't boast about its freedom, democracy, respect for human rights etc. I have been given an opportunity of employment which I have never had access to back home.

Admittedly, I could train as a teacher in the U.K. and become one without any obstacles, but as a graduate without a profession, I am impressed how easy it is for me to get work here.

I also respect the fact that Koreans provide native teachers with benefits such as rent-free housing, a refund for their airfare, an extra months pay for severance, an efficient subway system, less violent crime etc.

Korea is far from perfect and its faults are known to us all.

But on balance, I'd say it's a pretty good country, and I don't really miss the U.K. very much at all. I miss my family and some foods, but apart from that, Korea is ok.

Things can change, but I feel like I could be here for a long time.

How many jobs can you think of which pay you while you surf online, watch something on youtube or play space invaders?!!

Life is really quite good.

[kiwiliz]

You are one of the lucky ones..good luck. Nice to know you are feeling good about being here.

[nobbyken]

I am having one of those times too.
Everyone at the school, admin included, are making everything so jolly and easy.

Work is simpler than last years elementary school, and living in apart on a small mountainside about 4 mins from school.

One of my co-teachers came to my desk and told me my method of getting the students to practice dialogue in the last class worked good.
(similar to Korean prayers, everyone talking individually, but at the same time.)
Nice greetings from the students, instead of sugar-high elementary kids.

Was able to nip home to help my wife with our new computer on a free class, and got to play with our cute 6-month baby girl^^.

Yep, land of the morning calm, unless you use some mode of transport to get to work!

[fromtheuk]

My apartment is 10 minutes walking distance from my school and I forgot to mention, I have air conditioning, which my last co-teacher didn't even have.

I also have the standard items provided through my school: a hoover, toaster, t.v., washing machine, closet, tables, chairs etc.

If any job in Britain offered me the same, then I'd return!

[American_Maverick]

Nice to read such a positive post on your experiences so far in SK. As someone who has waffled on more than one occasion about whether I should pack my bags and just get over there, reading this makes me think it will be worthwhile.

fromtheuk, I take it you were not a teacher at any time prior to coming to SK? That's the only thing that concerns me...will I really take to teaching. We'll see. I know I like kids and enjoy helping people. If I do find myself enjoying the experience in the classroom I can see myself staying a long time. The American economy sucks these days.

[fromtheuk]

I had no previous experience of teaching before I came to Korea.

But I knew that if I put in some effort to begin with, I could act like I was a good teacher. Thankfully, I am now quite competent.

I'd advise you to go for it American_Maverick.

Just remember, go for a public school and also bear in mind you can be polite and don't have to kiss a$%.

Your contract is from the government so don't feel obliged to seek the acceptance of your Korean colleagues, because at the end of the day they are just employees like you.

Try and stay on good terms with your Principal, Vice Principal, and Co-teacher.....in that order!

[Draz]

[American_Maverick]

[American_Maverick]

[Binch Lover]

Your meds arrived safely then, fromtheuk?

[fromtheuk]

This was meant to be a 'heal the world' type thread. Trust the grinch, sorry....Binch Lover to try and spoil it

[it's full of stars]

I thought you were a girl Fromtheuk, so the facial hair thing threw me.

[Mi Yum mi]

Things are goo dhere too. Don't get me wrong. I love to bitch, but my bitching has been about tiny thngs lately. The uni said they are starting the '5 year rule' this year. They said everyone gets 5 more years, but this is my 4th year here. I think they aren't going to keep me after this year. If they do I'm going to fight for my job (I think they have to follow the 5 year rule if you're a waeg on an F visa).

Anyone know if this is true? In Korea if you have a job for 5 years then it's supposed to be yours for life. Does that count if you're on an F visa?