Korean Job Discussion Forums

[ABCDAVE]

Is it considered "kosher" to apply for positions before I physically have my degree? I graduate in May, but would like to start the application process as soon as possible. I want to try and limit my down time this summer, and would like it if I could get through the application process ahead of time.

Or, is my only option to apply after graduation?

Many Thanks...

[Yu_Bum_suk]

You're probably a bit too early. If you want a summer job, May, when you actually have your degree, will be a perfect time to start applying.

[BigBuds]

You can't start the E-2 visa paperwork processing without your degree and schools usually want to see a copy of your degree before they hire you.

[Smee]

Now is generally too early to start applying for jobs that begin in the summer. You'll see that schools hire a month or two before the term begins.

However, you can send out some resumes now to schools and recruiters to get a few interviews under your belt. You can look at some contracts and talk to directors/recruiters to practice what questions to ask.

Schools were willing to hire me months before I had my BA. I signed a contract a few months before I graduated, but the school pushed back the start date by two months, so I didn't take the job. It wasn't until I came to SK that I realized how many jobs there are.

If you apply now you might be able to land something . . . just know that between now and the summer a lot can change. Your school could go bankrupt, could opt to hire someone else, or you could find something better.

[Homer]

As others have said it is a bit too early for summer openings.

Also, you will not be able to apply for your work visa if you do not have your degree in hand.

By all means start looking for jobs and do some research. At the very least this will allow you to figure out what you want for a job and where in Korea you would prefer to work.

[ABCDAVE]

Got it. Very well put from both perspectives. Thanks again for the help.