Korean Job Discussion Forums

[greenparty]

I am interested in working in Korea. I previously taught in Taiwan and Vietnam. I have a BA in English. Im Canadian. 24, and female if that matters.

I was just looking for some advice. I am interested in working for a private school in Korea...anywhere, Im not picky. (so not doing the EPIK program). I know someone who's done the EPIK and she really didn't like it. I worked a cram school in Taiwan and while it had its moments I overall enjoyed working with the kids so Im thinking it'll be the same deal in Korea. Im thinking of going through a recruiting company. I've done this before and they were pretty cool. Is this a good idea, or should I go it alone?

So. What documents do you need to work in a private school? I feel the EPIK program requires a lot of paperwork before you even know if you got the job. Do we need strict reference letters with proper letterhead, ink signature etc? (They seem to be SO picky about this!) I dont live in the same country as my old boss anymore so getting one might be harde as it seems EPIK wants letters directly from you, not your old boss. Also. My diploma is in Latin and it is also GIANT. I mean. Its huge. But I do have an offical letter of translation. Am I supposed to send my giant diploma over to the embassy to get notarized? Or a copy? Or just my letter? They can't read the Latin anyway....so.

Finally, what are some red flags in the contract I should look out for? Do any schools pay by the hour, or is it all salary? Are private school jobs easier to get into than EPIK? Do schools shut down a lot, or are they pretty well established corporations?

And is getting the E2 visa really as obnoxious as it seems? It just looks like a giant headache. I think it might be worth it though.

Thank you for your help!

[jrwhite82]

Not to be a jerk, but there are stickies above that will answer almsot every question you just asked.

[Riker]

Do you have your FBI background check with apostille? This process can potentially take 2 - 3 months. I'm at 8 weeks and waiting for my apostille (which should arrive any day now).

I would focus on that before anything else.

[marsavalanche]

All of your questions are already answered here, you just have to take the time to read and search for them.

http://forums.eslcafe.com/korea/viewforum.php?f=7

http://www.google.com/

You're welcome.

[EmGen]

A lot of people I know have had bad experiences with private schools in Korea. I might reconsider teaching at a public school if I were you, even if your friend did have a little trouble.