Korean Job Discussion Forums

[hexagonsun]

Hello to the Collective Hive of Dave�s:

I recently posted a few questions regarding the SMOE application process not too long ago, which can be located here:

http://forums.eslcafe.com/korea/viewtopic.php?p=2315450#2315450

Now, I know how horrible some of these apartments can be that SMOE provides, so I might plan on forking over the money myself and getting my own place for the year with the help of SMOE subsidizing a part of it. I�ve saved up a good chunk of change since being here and comfortable putting the money down for a comfortable place to live, work, and study for grad school for the year.

1. I�m not sure how to word this next question, but has anyone rented an apartment after the interview process with SMOE? Meaning you have definitely been hired and discussed getting your own apartment with them; however, this is all before you�ve been placed. I will be in Korea interviewing for SMOE and debating my whereabouts the few weeks in between contracts.

2. Does SMOE want to know where you are planning on living before hand if you choose the housing allowance option?

3. Has anyone chosen the housing allowance option? How did that work out for you?

4. My theory: If you discuss where you will be renting an apartment, you will be placed in that area. (I�m probably incredibly wrong on this one)

5. Pros and cons about choosing the housing allowance.

6. Insightful Input

Thanks for the help (again)! In the two years I�ve lived in Korea, this will be my first big step outside of the hagwon world in the coming months and I want the process to go as smoothly as possible.

[brento1138]

I am pretty sure SMOE doesn't have much to do with the housing. I think it's mainly based on your school / school principal.

I just got accepted with SMOE. Personally, I do not expect much. I just expect the basics... I am expecting to get a newish / niceish bachelor flat that is small. I'm talking simply a room with a bed (twin size), enough space to work out (like doing situps / pushups), have a desk, window, kitchen and dining area. Would also expect a clothes washer room kinda thing. Bathroom which isn't freezing. I see those as "basic" living conditions. As basic / bare as you get...

I suppose if those are not met, might as well let the school know. They'd probably change it around (so I've heard). I don't think the school would be "retaining" teachers for the full year if the above basic conditions weren't met...

[wallythewhale]

SMOE has NOTHING to do with your housing. It is all on your school. With that said, there's not much to say/expect until you get there/here.

[hexagonsun]

Brento and Wally:

Thanks for the input. You're right about all that. I forgot that ultimately your school has the final say in terms of housing and NOT SMOE.

If things are subpar at your given apartment, is it possible to move elsewhere? Perhaps on my dime and effort for finding a suitable place for rent. Has anyone done that at least?