Korean Job Discussion Forums

[MrTPitysu]

I've finally decided on Korea as my first ESL country! Hello to all of youuuu.

Also, I apologize for not doing more research in the forums beore asking these questions but I've been very busy and there are SO many posts on EPIK (while the one's in the FAQ section are quite out-dated).

1.) What is normally worn in public schools while teaching? Do I need a collection of suits or is it more business casual?

2.) I know on the EPIK site it shows positions are given to those with only a degree (No certs or teaching experience). But, i was curious how often this actually happens and if I am just fooling myself by thinking I will get in with only the degree.

3.) In some of the really old posts on EPIK in the FAQ section, there were many, many concerns about how EPIK was taking advantage of their workers. I know that this has improved but to what degree? Do I still need to be very careful?

4.) Is there a difference between applying to EPIK directly and applying to EPIK through a recruiter? Is one better then another?


Thanks so much for the time in advance and again I apologize if this information has been asked previously. I wanted to get as much info. as I could before committing myself to the program.

[Darkeru]

1) The information that EPIK sent out suggested business casual wear, but I've read other people say that it varies based on the school.

4) Apparently Korvia give you a free second-hand prepaid phone when you arrive and they're said to be good recruiters in general. Some people who applied through recruiters instead of direct seemed to get their NoA's late or seemed to not get any answers from the recruiters at the crucial time (or just be told, 'soon, soon').

Personally I applied direct and I'm glad I did - but I'll be envying those people who have phones (however cheap and old) before they get their ARC.

[Otherside]

1. Definitly Smart-Casual. Collared shirt and slacks are all you'll need, perhaps a tie on special occasions.

2. Yup, just a degree is fine. Usually Seoul-EPIK/SMOE requires more, but for the rest of the country, no issue.

3. Yes they're fine. Sure some schools nickel and dime, you may have a co-teacher from hell, the principal might hate you, the kids may call you names etc. But the follow the contract, and if you do get ripped off or there is a "misunderstanding" you can take it up the chain of command.

4. Either/Or. Everyone has their opinion, a good recruiter will give you personalised service, but overall, no major difference at the end of the day.

[oldfatfarang]

[oldtactics]

If you're interested in Gangwon-do, JejuESL and ESLstarter recruit for EPIK there and I'd recommend both.

Important to note that if you apply to EPIK through a recruiter, only use ONE - multiple people on this board have been rejected for multiple applications.

Definitely business casual, especially in the summer.

You're good with just a BA - I'm not sure what the statistics are, but I'd say a good 75% of the people at my orientation came to Korea with only a BA and no certificates.

If you're applying for the February 2011 intake, I'd say it's worth it to do one of the 100hr online TEFL courses just for the pay increase.

Good luck!

[JBomb]

1.) Wear a suit and or shirt and tie for your first day and then start dressing down a bit. Common rule for me is no jeans, shirt with a collar. This means polo shirts and short sleeved dress shirts and I don't usually tuck them in. Just follow what other teachers wear. The odd day it is nice to come in wearing the tie though.

2.) Happens a lot. A lot of teachers here have just the Bachelors. The best is just to stress how open and into doing and experiencing new things you are.

3.) Varies on the school. Most of the angst and seething hatred is all co-teacher related. The biggest mistake I have seen people make is to come into a classroom and think they are there as Gods gift to teaching and with little regard for the ideas of the co-teacher. Stroke their ego like crazy at first and it will win you many favours. The only problems as of late has been the 3 less days vacation time this year compared to last and the strict amount of weeks you have to do Camps. Three weeks and no less in Busan.

4.) Korivia is well spoken of. They do a lot for you, however, I have heard in some interviews with EPIK's people that they are increasingly giving more priority and preference to those who apply directly through the website. Remember though, recruiters are only there to help you get an interview and help navigate the visa process. After that you will be lucky to get a t-shirt and stuck on an emailing list.

[NYC_Gal]

[DosEquisXX]

[Morticae]

I went through a recruiter for EPIK and as far as I can tell, based off of the people posting on this forums & the much larger facebook group, I was the second person to get a contract.

My point? It doesn't seem to make a difference for speed. What does? Applying and getting your documents in early while being flexible.

If you can do research for yourself, go direct. If you want to ask questions, receive advice, etc, go with a recruiter.

[LeePDX]

If you want a public school position you might also choose to go through GEPIK. In that case, most jobs are only offered through recruiters. Schools hire directly, unlike EPIK.
I'm a newbie and used Korvia in applying for a GEPIK position. Definitely recommend them!

[KwardBound]

[Morticae]