Korean Job Discussion Forums

[ch1can3]

I've been browsing these forums for quite a while, and I've made up my mind to try teaching. I actually want to study for a genuine certificate back home in the U.S, but I can't afford it right now. My degree is totally unrelated, which from what I understand, isn't a total deal breaker. I'm sure this has been endlessly asked, and I'm only posting so I can get a fresh take, but here is my dilemma.

I'm interested in public school, but I'm green as can be with no experience and an unrelated degree. I've been thinking of doing the TEFL Certificate, but I'm actually not sure of the chances on getting into EPIK/GEPIK. I know a lot of people are starting to pursue this kind of job now, and wondering if it's better for me to accept a private school position now instead of waiting for the next round of public school openings. I'm mainly concerned about chances of getting in. I'm totally flexible on location. Does anyone have some light they could shed on the actual chances of getting in with my qualifications? Thanks.

[Setaro]

I wish they would write in big flashing letter at the top of the forum "Public Schools hire all year round!"

I got my PS job starting Oct 1st, I'd applied 3 weeks before. There are hundreds of positions for public schools that will be hiring between now and the next major EPIK recruitment. You get the same contract as anyone who goes via the stupidly long-winded process, and you usually get to have a telephone or skype interview with the Education Board rather than having to do one in person.

Regarding qualifications, while you'll probably not get a job over another person that has a teaching degree/experience, I think the mini-essay/interview is the deal breaker. Don't underestimate the number of people who can't present themselves properly in an interview and lose the job, no matter how highly qualified they are.

I'd say the majority of people teaching in Public Schools right now do not have a teaching or linguistics-based degree anyway.

[ttompatz]

[ch1can3]

I have all my documents ready to go right now, but recruiters said most of the teachers were already placed or arriving now...

[Setaro]

http://www.eslcafe.com/jobs/korea/index.cgi?read=46246 that right there is for PS positions, posted yesterday. They'll be many more from other recruiters.

[jrwhite82]

Yes, the large hiring season just passed. There will be another in a few months. But both programs hire year round. Teachers will quit/get fired half way through their contracts and renewals. Teachers that quit/got fired two years ago, well, they're positions are still off schedule with the large hiring seasons. So when the position becomes vacant it will need to be filled.

Getting your TEFL will be a great idea. I really like working for my GEPIK school but if you've never stepped foot in a classroom you might find it hard with 36 kids to control that don't understand you. (Even if you have taught it can still be hard!). This will give you a great edge when you first start, plus a pay bump.

It is not uncommon to have to teach a class here or there without a coteacher. And many schools might ask you to do an after school/extra class without a coteacher once or twice a week. This can be pretty tough if you've never taught before. The TEFL would be a wise investment.

[AsiaESLbound]

Keep an eye on the job listings on this site and apply. Unlike applying for a job back home, provide your photo, gender, race, and nationality. If certain recruiters aren't doing anything right now, keep trying until you find one that is. Not all recruiters are equal so each one has a different selection of jobs.

[bobbybigfoot]

Geez, I was thinking your blood was green. I was like wtf?

[ch1can3]

I've applied to that listed position, and I'm definitely keeping my eyes peeled. I'm also really flexible on location, which I heard increases my chances. Can anyone confirm this?

I'm definitely going to participate in the TEFL certificate program as soon as possible, too. Thank you!