Korean Job Discussion Forums

[ConfusedMan1780]

I guess this post is my introduction. And I am interested in getting as much information as I can about things.

All of this started after being contacted by a recruiter in regards to teaching in Korea. I asked some questions, got started with the initial application, received a phone interview from the school. I was notified that they want to hire me. I told the recruiter that I'd have to think about it for a few days. For note, I have not sent them any of the major major information (university degree, background check, etc.) yet. So I can afford to drag my heels a bit.

Since then, I've come here to research and find out info, and I am expressing a bit of doubt in taking this job. And while I know that the ESL market in Korea is becoming swamped, I just don't want to end up in a hagwon where I am gonna have problems.

The job would be through Avalon, specifically in Jeonju. And I've heard some good things, some terrible things, and some other things in regards to Avalon based on other locations. Seeing all that info has made me think twice about accepting the offer.

Can anyone give me a little advice on what I should do from here? I am interested in finding something, and have contacted a couple of the recruitment companies that were highly recommended by ESL Cafe board members, but I am still a little worried that I could potentially be ruining any chance with other recruiters and schools by delaying on this.

Any help would be appreciated.

[efemmera]

Hagwons hire year round so if you don't mind working in one, you have the luxury of time on your side. I think you should always trust your intuition when making a decision. I would also recommend doing a search on this site or on the web regarding questions to ask your recruiter. Insist that all relevent details (total hours worked, days off, vaction etc) are incorporated into your contract. Good luck.

[ConfusedMan1780]

Thank you, efemmera.

I've largely made my decision, but I'm waiting on a couple of pieces of information to come in. Needless to say, the recommendations that I have seen here on the ESL boards have been helpful in looking at things.

When I finally get things together, I'll post a bit more about it and get people's opinions on things.

Again, thank you, efemmera. I'm happy someone responded.

[nathanrutledge]

I've got a friend who worked at Avalon in Jeonju. Just finished up and went home. Now, Avalon is a chain, but from what I understand, there is only 1 in Jeonju (not Chungju), so if your spelling is correct, it's probably the same one.

From what he told me, it was a decent job. Lots of extra hours with extra pay, his coworkers were lots of fun, his boss was great to him. Overall, it was a good time, but hard work as they just opened last year and are getting a ton of students.

PM me and I can get you this guys name and email if you want to talk to someone who worked there.

[ConfusedMan1780]

I can't PM, since I have less than 25. However, I think if you PM me, I should be able to receive it.

Any help would be appreciated.

[waynehead]

You could probably do a lot worse your first year than Avalon.

[ConfusedMan1780]

NathanRutledge,

Send me his addy in an e-mail. [email protected].

I'd appreciate it.

[ConfusedMan1780]

BTW, just quickly,

I wanted to thank everyone for their help on this and whatnot.

You all have been a major help.