Korean Job Discussion Forums

[texasteacher]

I have a condition called Bell's Palsy. Well, actually I no longer have Bell's Palsy, I now have muscle atrophy. When I did have Bells it completely damaged my facial nerves on my right side. This does not affect my ability to teach or speak and isn't noticable unless you look close, only one side of my face is functional. Other than this issue I am a very pretty young lady, but this does take away from my beauty.

I've completed stage 1 of the interview process now they are requesting that I submit a video. Unfortunately, when I record myself it's quite obvious that the right side of my face isn't moving (blinking, smiling etc..).

I've had this condition for a number of years and has impacted my emotional health because I'm extremely conscience of it and knowing how appearences matter in south Korea, I'm quite frightened.

It doesn't help that the recruiters keep asking me to smile, but I can't....my face wont allow me to.

Please give you your suggestions.

[Lucas]

[texasteacher]

No, I didn't. The health statement simply asked if I am good healt. If I have contagious virus etc... I don't. This isn't a health issue. Bells Palsy has no known causes. I am 5'3, 115lbs, athletic and in excellent health.

[texasteacher]

[texasteacher]

I googled physical critera in teaching ESL in Korea and found the statement below on a recruiters website.

"Physical Appearance / Disabilities
As there are fewer differences in physical appearance among Koreans than among Westerners, Koreans focus on smaller physical differences that many North Americans wouldn't even notice. What shade of black is her hair? What kind of eyelids does he have? Can she "pinch an inch," or an inch and a quarter? More disturbing, some Koreans, like many East Asians, view physical handicaps or less flattering physical differences as a reflection of personality or character. Concealing significant weight issues (i.e. 30 lbs or more) or visible physical differences (e.g. missing fingers or mobility difficulties) from us may increase your chances of being hired by a Korean employer; however, this will backfire as problems will arise upon your arrival in Korea. If your application is deceptive, neither I nor my Korean partners will take responsibility for the outcome. Be direct with me, and I'll be direct with you and give you the best advice I can so that you can make the most appropriate decisions for your own welfare and happiness."

I guess I should let the recruiters know, I truly didn't think it was a big issue, but neither is missing a finger as stated above. Thanks for your comment. I will stay positive and hope for the best.

[Swampfox10mm]

Many Koreans display little emotion, so in all seriousness, I think you might fit in fine if you just display little emotion with either side of your face.

As someone said... roll the dice. Send the video and see what they think. Have hope!

[ttompatz]

[texasteacher]

I truly appreciate your responses.

Yes, I will be certified in March 2013. I have researched esl positions in other countries and they require years of experience.

[ttompatz]

[Troglodyte]

[young_clinton]

I wish you could show us an example of what it looks like when you talk. Because it might be noticable, but as long as it's not unattractive or hinders your ability to communicate there is a good chance it will not keep you from continuing your job.

You might try shooting for a public school in the countryside. My public school tolerated a NET that would show up at times with alcohol on her breath. She was fat and unattractive. However she was licensed to teach in the USA. She continued at her job untill she literally drank herself to death 6 months after being hired. My opinion is a public school in the country will overlook it for your dedication and love of the kids.

[EZE]

I believe you'll get hired rather quickly, and I also think it's rare for recruiters or schools to ask for videos. I have always provided a photo, but have never even been asked for a video.

I doubt it will really be an issue at work. Some of the kids will probably mock you and Korean adults will probably ask you a hundred times what is wrong and then give you unsolicited advice on how you should blink and smile. Definitely bring thick skin and a couple of extra copies of your criminal background check and diploma, which everyone should bring even under ideal circumstances.

[texasteacher]

If I knee how to attach a pic on I would. Ideas? Not at profile pic, just for this posting.

[Swampfox10mm]

I was expecting a video, but if a photo is enough to show it, then I am guessing you may have more difficulty than I thought at first.

You could end up in a fine place, but honestly, I would also suggest considering other countries. Korea is changing, but the esl industry is, by-and-large, one big turd.

I used to feel good about some of us in the university industry actually being able to educate. More and more, I have seen/heard about various institutions of higher learning dissolving into money-versities bent on keeping students happy at all costs. In the great tuition money-grab, and fight to win international students, it has only gotten worse.

Two good friends work for international schools here, and even they are becoming disgruntled with the quality of education their schools now provide. This was a big factor in our decision not to send our child to one of these overpriced money-grabs, as well.

[young_clinton]