Korean Job Discussion Forums

[GOTJ87]

Question:

Is it better to start TEFL in a place with perks, easy transition (South Korea), or in a place that holds more personal appeal, but could be more difficult (South America)?

To flesh this out, I am 23, UK citizen, soon to take a CELTA. My original motivations were to teach somewhere Spanish-speaking in South America, as the language, cultures, locations etc appeal to me.

I've recently started looking into starting in SK instead: ease of transition through paid flights & accommodation, chance to (hopefully) save. However, as I have no particular interest in the location, other than as a means of gaining teaching experience and money, I'm not sure this would be a worthwhile thing to do.

What do you all think? Did you start in Korea and move on somewhere else? Did the experience help you?

Alternatively, who chose their first position by location over perks (heart over mind!)?

I know distinctions and answers aren't as simplistic as I've made them out. But any opinions would be great.

Cheers!

[amcnutt]

Well I think it's important to go somewhere you actually want to go to. If you have no interest in South Korean or Asian culture/lifestyle at all, you probably won't enjoy yourself.
I chose Korea because of a combination of factors. I'll be heading over in a few weeks for the 1st time, so i'm no expert. But I have always wanted to travel/live in Asia, and have many Korean & Japanese friends here in Canada. The money and accomodations are like a bonus to me. However, owing over $30,000 in student loans makes the money definitely an important factor in my decision. If I was not making enough money to pay off at least SOME debt, I wouldn't go. I wouldn't be able to get ahead in life.
Anyway, I have had one friend teach English in Brazil and they really liked it. You don't make as much money as most of Asia, but the cost of living is low and with this program their accomodations were covered I think.
Use your head but follow your heart I guess is my advice

[questionmark]

[quote="GOTJ87"]Question:

Is it better to start TEFL in a place with perks, easy transition (South Korea), or in a place that holds more personal appeal, but could be more difficult (South America)?quote]

Depends on your long range goals: whether you plan to teach esl for years or you are just in it for the short term and your focus is on earnings and repaying student debt.

If you're not pressed for finances, go to South America. I've taught in Bolivia and South Korea. Your first assignment should be a fun, stress-free and enriching experience. It helps set the tone for later teaching assignments.

Reading through Dave's, you'll see an overwhelming number of posts from new and seasoned teachers experiencing difficulty working in South Korea.

Go into Dave's and look at South American countries under the International Forum. Posts are more upbeat and teachers seem to be generally happy working there.

After getting training, you might consider coming to S. Korea for earnings. You'll find teachers here that alternate between countries where they teach "for fun" and then come to Korea for income when they feel the need.


Good luck!

[GOTJ87]

Thanks for your replies, very helpful.

Earnings and savings are definitely not my motivating factor. Perhaps it boils down to apprehension about taking the plunge - South America, where you show up and job hunt, vs SK where a recruiter organizes the placement.

I guess I won't know my long-term goals until I get some experience under my belt. This makes me think I should go for a location with more immediate appeal, rather than the more strategic choice of SK!

amcnutt: all the best for your trip, hope you have a great time!

question mark: what was your time in Bolivia like? Do you know much about the teaching market there now? (Sucre looks cool)

Cheers!