Korean Job Discussion Forums

Mr. BlackCat · Joined: 30 Nov 2005 Location: Insert witty remark HERE

Hello,

I'm in the process of applying for a job through SMOE starting in March. I'm already in Seoul and should have the interview soon. I have a question regarding the vacation time.

I just found out that my sister will be getting married in the summer of next year. There is really no question that I will go to this wedding. She's willing to wait a little while for me to find out when I can be in Canada to set the exact date. It'll be a small family affair and it would be pretty bad if I wasn't there, especially if I have the chance to be.

How far in advance can you set your vacation for SMOE? I suppose I won't even know my exact school for a little while, so it'll be difficult. But I would need to know before I'd start in March. I realize it's my interview and I can ask anything in there, but what are my chances if I politely tell them that I need to set my vacation asap?

I looked into flying home this past summer and even though I started my search in early April everything was already booked solid for July/August.

cruisemonkey · Posted: Sun Dec 02, 2007 7:12 pm Post subject:

I can't answer your question, but I'd make the dates of summer holiday a condition of signing the contract (and get it in writing).

I can tell you that because my old school district left everyting to the last minute, it cost them a small fortune to send me home and back in August when I 'renewed' a couple of years ago. In fact, my regular Korean travel agent couldn't even get tickets for under CAD $7000 Shocked

I wonder what would have happened if I had bought those tickets and then submitted for reimbursement? As it was, I just told them I couldn't get tickets and somehow they managed to get me flights.

Book your flights ASAP.

Bibbitybop · Joined: 22 Feb 2006 Location: Seoul

Yes, you must get the agreement IN WRITING unless you want to travel back to the USA after the 1st week of August when regular summer vacation time is.

Don't let the SMOE head office tell you "it won't be a problem." It will be a problem unless it's in writing. You will deal with your school about vacation and they will give you a hard time about missing class.

Flights may be reserved for July and August to the USA, but last summer, tickets through Korean air for the dates around August 10-15 could be found in early and mid July.

Dome Vans · Guest

Bibbitybop · Joined: 22 Feb 2006 Location: Seoul

Dome Vans · Guest

Actually should mention that I'm an EPIK teacher. But from my friends and what I've heard, the pre-agreement is the norm for EPIK and SMOE. If it's not stupidly placed or for a ridiculously long time or a crap reason then it shouldn't be a problem.

I'm actually going home on the 22nd this month for christmas, talked with my co-teacher and we checked with the VP and principal and he said "i permit you, as you've been an excellent, diligent teacher this term" was his reply. Don't need to bother checking with the Office of Education, or EPIK because it's the school that loses out that week. I may lose a weeks pay, I doubt it, but that doesn't really bother me. But will make sure I get this in writing next year because as with EPIK and SMOE you can be moved around. So if I'm not at my current school I'll want that confirmation in writing before I sign, because I want that week off.

cj1976 · Joined: 26 Oct 2005

I'm with SMOE and my co-teacher just informed me that if I want to travel overseas during winter vacation, I have to give my principal 15 days notice so he can give approval. Anyone heard of this rule?

Bibbitybop · Joined: 22 Feb 2006 Location: Seoul

aarontendo · Joined: 08 Feb 2006 Location: Daegu-ish

I think he's referring to the fact that he needs approval to use his own vacation to leave the country.

cj1976 · Joined: 26 Oct 2005

aarontendo · Joined: 08 Feb 2006 Location: Daegu-ish

Just plan your vacation days and do what ya want. If your school calls tell em your phone was broken/dead/etc.

I think it's just a holdover cause Korean teachers gotta get permission to leave the country too.

cj1976 · Joined: 26 Oct 2005

I don't care what the principal says. If I feel like a last minute excursion, then that's what I'll do. This is not an act of impertinent defiance on my behalf, but I do feel it's a bit much to expect that kind of deference from me when it comes to my own precious free time.