Korean Job Discussion Forums

[xCustomx]

I've been applying for some part-time positions back here in the States while I'm going to school but I haven't been able to find any work yet. It could be due to the economy, it could be due to my resume, or it could be that I spent 5 years in Korea. Is there any way to improve my resume? I taught 2 years in a hagwon and 3 at a middle school. How can I describe the duties of an English teacher in a more professional way, other than "Designed lesson plans" or "Taught xxx students " or something along those lines? thanks

[Hokie21]

What kind of job are you looking for?

Don't just say "designed lesson plan". You need to write things like
"Responsible for organizing and designing daily lesson plans etc"
"Strong written and presentation skills"

If you worked with a co-teacher etc then play it up as "Successfully collaborated with blah blah blah"

Plus you've worked overseas so say something about diversity or adapting to new enviornments.
Stuff like that.

[xCustomx]

[def PD]

Have a bullet point such as:

- Responsible for subject matter, selection of materials and media, development of learning activities, classroom scheduling, and documentation of plans, etc.

Maybe be specific on any material you covered with your students such as grammar, reading comprehension, etc.

Mention the age groups (along with the size of the classes) taught.

If there were any presentations or group activity work that you may have been involved in (with other faculty) I'd put that on your resume also.

Beyond that I don't think there's too much else you can add, but what do I know, I'm not a teacher.

When the time comes and you get a reply, just be prepared for the inevitable questions that'll come up regarding your time abroad and play up your strengths and experiences during that time to the position (and company) you're interested in.

[Hokie21]

And there are tons of free "resume builder" software programs out there which include tons of sample resumes. just look at some styles and examples and build your own.

To brainstorm get a piece of paper and break down a typical week, highlight certain things, skills, characteristics that you think carry over to another/general field. then its mostly word play and making it sound more complicated and fancy than it really is.

You're selling yourself basically.

[pangaea]

If you check with your schools student services office or with your county unemployment office, you can probably find classes or individual counseling on resume building offered for free. I took a resume building and interview skills class free at home. I think it was offered through the unemployment office. Both were actually very helpful. The lady who taught resume building was very professional and was able to tell us what to put on our resumes, what to leave out, and how to word things and spin our experiences to our best advantage. Might be worth a try to get the professional resume you want.

[xCustomx]

Thanks for the advice. I'll check with the career center tomorrow and see if there is anyone that assists with resumes

[McGenghis]

Aim for the center of the world. Convince them that being an expat is kind of like being a pirate 250 years ago. Talk of conquest and virtuous maidens unmade. Affect a salty accent.

The world might be wide but it is within your rights to have fun.