Korean Job Discussion Forums

[markgong]

Hi, I'm brand new to the board and looking to teach English in either Korea or Japan. The problem is that I've heard that being a chinese-american may cause a problem for me. Schools who want a "western image" are more likely to hire a caucasian over myself. Is this true? Another problem is that I was born in China and moved to the states when I was 8. I have been in the states for the last 17 years, have no accent, and is just as competent as any other candidate. Does this make me a native-speaker that so many schools require?

Thanks, I know those are some loaded questions, but any help is welcome.
Mark

[kat2]

Yes, some schools want blond, blue eyed teachers. Just be patient. It make take slighly longer for you to get a job. Shouldn't be a major problem though.

You need a passport and degree from the US, Canada, UK, etc. If you have those, you should be fine.

[babtangee]

I knew a Chinese-Australian who was working for significantly less than your average native speaker - 1.5m - and his hagwon really made him earn it. He didn't stay more than a year. Married a Japanese girl and moved over there. I don't know if he's having a better time of it in Japan.

You can get a job, surely. But it is going to be harder for you to find a good salary. And I suggest you don't let them treat you like an Asian employee when get there.

Good luck, manl

[JZer]

[tzechuk]

I am Chinese-British, I've had no problem whatsoever landing jobs.

[markgong]

[Neil]

On the upside if you wish to teach privates an immigration officer or apartment security guy is unlikely to give you a second glance when you go off to teach.

[JZer]

[markgong]

If you say so. I would appreciate it if you stop hyjacking this thread JZer.

[babtangee]

[sock]

Quote:

I worked in resturants during college and could often tell whether someone was white, asian, or of african decent on the phone. When they came to pick up their food, usually my thoughts were correct.

Hmm, you worked in "resturants" and you could tell people's race/ethnicity over the phone. Was this at Pizza Hut or the Psychic Friends Network cafeteria?

Guess what, I can do better than that. I can tell that you're a moron and I don't even have to hear your voice.

[simpleminds]

Or read any more of your posts.

OP: be careful of the big franchises: Kid's Club, Wonderland, Kid's Herald, etc. I've heard most of the SLP branches are OK. If you don't want to work at a haggie, try a public school.

[venus]

You'll land something, but it might take a bit more time sadly...

As long as you have an american passport and education, you'll be fine.

A lot of the recruiters don't even bother reading cover emails, just look at the photo and MAYBe at your resume....so mention these things in BOLD TYPE perhaps in your emails

[markgong]

It's weird growing up facing racism because I didn't know the language when I first arrived in the states...but now it sounds like I have to detail with it all over again.

Thanks for all the advice guys, please keep 'em coming.

[Ekuboko]