Korean Job Discussion Forums

Halcyom Chimera · Joined: 24 Sep 2009

Hello all! I have been browsing the boards a bit, but I'd like to ask some questions. Frist, let me give you some information about myself.

I am a 24 year old graduate student graduating with a master's in education with a concentration in English language arts (ELA). I already have a bachelor's in the same field. I have a current Alabama teaching certificate (Class B but will advance to class A upon graduating).

I've spoken with EPIK; they say someone with my qualifications (no TESOL experience) I would start out a 2.3-2.4KRW per month. Is that reasonable or should I look elsewhere? Granted, I have no TESOL experience, but I will hold two degrees in teaching Enlish at the middle and secondary level.

And what schools should I look to? Thanks.

bassexpander · Joined: 13 Sep 2007 Location: Someplace you'd rather be.

You are licensed and that's what they pay? So sad. Korea obvously doesn't want qualified people.

andrewchon · Posted: Mon Oct 05, 2009 2:56 am Post subject:

Well, you barking up the wrong tree if you want more green men. You should go to private schools or Universities, why are you talking to EPIK for?

Halcyom Chimera · Joined: 24 Sep 2009

Well, I am not sure where to go. It seems like universities want people with experience. I've only taught in the classroom during a practicum and student teaching internship, but that was during undergrad. \

I was thinking I could do better than EPIK too. It's just hard to pinpoint what private places or universities I can contact. I've been constantly monitoring the Korean job boards. Would any other country pay more? China? Japan? Whatever?

Thanks.

Halcyom Chimera · Joined: 24 Sep 2009

How much should I expect for my qualifications? 2.5+? I'm still really new at this, even after browsing the forums. Anyone have any .05 they want to pitch in? Thanks

andrewchon · Posted: Mon Oct 05, 2009 2:11 pm Post subject:

EPIK, GEPIK, SMOE, etc are Government agencies and they have a SET pay scale. When they say 2.3, that's is as high as they'll go.

Big monies are Oil Sheikdoms. Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE and so on.

Universities in Korea do house clearing with staff quite often.
Do not worry about not having experience. Korea is a land of thinking-on-your-feet and meeting unexpected expectations.

Mr. Pink · Joined: 21 Oct 2003 Location: China

Forget Korea for ESL. You would do better to put your time in teaching 2yrs at a lower tier international school that finds it hard to attract experienced teachers. After 2yrs experience, you are pretty much open to apply to any international school and you can choose for the money.

Hiring season starts in January for international schools, so if you are interested in that check out some fairs. I know a couple lower tier international schools went to my university's educational fair and 2 people from my class got jobs: one in HK and the other in Vietnam. Besides me, I think we are the only 3 people who went abroad to international schools. A bunch went to the UK, but I would advise AGAINST that.

Halcyom Chimera · Joined: 24 Sep 2009

Halcyom Chimera · Joined: 24 Sep 2009

Can anyone else help me with this information?

Drew345 · Joined: 24 May 2005

Apply for the DoDEA school system, you could work in Korea or Japan. Or apply for International schools in Korea.
Your qualifications are way too high to settle for less.
Unfortunately, the DoDEA highers in summer for years that start in Fall.

Mr. Pink · Joined: 21 Oct 2003 Location: China

hawaii4me272 · Joined: 09 Sep 2009

I would say go for the EPIK for now to at least get experience and get your foot in the door. Once you are in Korea (and your contract is complete with EPIK), then you will be able to check out university and college positions in Korea.

FYI: Look for a job about 2 or 3 months prior to your contract completion and make sure the job is lined before your contract is finished.

Best of luck!!!!!!!!!!