Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Car0lina]

How much of a factor is being "older?" I am 46 and my husband is 57. We are both younger looking, but not THAT young! How tough will it be, especially for my husband? Would we be better off trying to secure a position for me first, and then try to find him work once we're there- or will that not make any difference?

Any insight appreciated! Sorry if this question is already answered somewhere- for some reason I can't get the search function to work... just get a blank screen back.

Thanks

[Ruraljuror]

There are thousands of vacancies. If some jobs won't want you, many others will. They are just looking for a warm body to place in front of the kids and pretty much any warm body will do.

Start contacting recruiters...I'd be shocked if any recruiters turned you down.

Good luck.

[Car0lina]

Appreciate the quick response!

[Jessie41]

I'm 43 and just finished a one-year contract with EPIK and going to SMOE next month. There were many teachers in their 40s and 50s at my EPIK orientation in 2008, although not the majority. However, I believe the new EPIK requirements set a cut-off age of 55, but perhaps they can waive it based on your situation and their needs. It can't hurt to try. I'm not sure if SMOE and GEPIK have age limits. Hagwons are a different story.

[Car0lina]

Thanks for replying- How are Hagwons different with respect to age?

[afsjesse]

You must also remember that age also garners respect in Korea. So you should use this to your advantage when you do get a job. I like in Uljin County which hires teachers directly, outside of EPIK and there are a few teachers in their mid to late 50's who are doing quite well in this regard.

Use it to your benefit!

Suerte,

Jesse

[Car0lina]

How would I go about applying in that region? Are they hiring? My husband and I are really excited about getting this going!

[afsjesse]

All positions are full I'm afraid. Most teachers renewed this year. Although I am leaving my job, it is one of the few EPIK positions in this province.

[Car0lina]

thanks for the info anyway!

[Epicurus]

Carolina, first of all I am surprised you haven't yet been assaulated by various moralizers that populate Dave's about "robbing the cradle".

your husband, I mean.

How do you feel about having had your "crable robbed"?
do you feel robbed?

anyways - in regards to your queeries, this can go different ways.

Some schools and admins want young(er) people. As noted, the Russian look is preferred on American females (young, lean, blonde)

Your age and your husband's can be both a draw and a benefit. I admit it will be slightly more difficulty for your hubby, the "cradle robber" because I think it does get more difficult after 50, most certainly after 55.

However, if a school "likes" you (how and why they do/would would be the subject of a very long meandering post, it's all very fickle) -being old(er) will garner you additional respect.

My advice would be to display an affection for your younger students, don't be too anal about things and be friendly/smile (while having limits/boundaries).

Typically schools will worry about an older person's energy levels and how they will relate to their students.

There are some older PS teachers who are doing fairly well in Korea.

[Jessie41]

[Kikomom]

Use this Google site for searching here on Dave's. MUCH better than the search function here:
http://www.google.com/coop/cse?cx=006359271486458796786%3Azldpir6y9yy

[Car0lina]

You have all been very helpful- thanks so much. And funny btw! My husband tries to get me to rob his cradle every night, but I guess that's off-topic!

[andrew]

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[Otherside]