Korean Job Discussion Forums

[arrangingpieces]

i've always received extremely helpful advice before on here so i thought i'd give this question a go.

i currently work at a public school in seoul but don't know if my contract will be renewed for next year or not (march) and due to a new principal and VP it doesn't appear i'll know anytime soon. i would probably stay if it is offered, but i also sort of want to try EPIK in jeju out.

if i apply for EPIK now will i be screwing myself for possible contract renewal? also, does EPIK decide on placement after orientation meaning i wouldn't actually know if i could be placed in jeju? lastly, would i have go to japan again to renew my visa (i know i need an FBI check)?

i'm wary about about everything since i was one of the teachers back in Fall 2009 that was dropped last minute by SMOE. i worked instead for a hagwon that merged and then had to switch to public school. it's been a bit tumultuous but i've been lucky for it all to work out. yet, i still don't know how my new situation would work.

the search function here leaves much to be desired and i can't quite find the answers so i appreciate your time and help.

thanks!

[winterfall]

There's a lot of competition for jeju, relative to its size there's not too many spots and when you apply to EPIK. You don't apply for just one place, you give regional preferences. And its ultimately up to EPIK. You could wind up in Jeju or in a small town in Jellongbuk-do

Of course they're give more weight to your preferences based on your teaching experience. But it sounds like you've worked at a ps for barely a yr and the rest at a hagwon. I don't know how EPIK works but if the payscale is any indication, they weigh it towards ps experience.

Sorry to hear you were one of the ones dropped. I don't know if EPIK will do the same thing but if it's any consolation, Epik & SMOE combined. So that must mean its better organized than SMOE????