Korean Job Discussion Forums

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I recently was offered a contract from CDI. From all my experiences with them (interview, answering of questions, professionalism, clarity) I am quite content. I have read the numerous posts here on the cons of CDI. Mainly: the potential for burnout, overworking, the inflexibility of the corporate ESL teaching model, the very few vacation days. So, I feel a bit anxious as well.

I am very attracted to the company because it seems organized, reputable and stable. While, I am worried that if I work there I will become too involved with work and miss out on important personal growth and cultural experiences. I know myself well enough that I will devote as much time as needed to be a good teacher at CDI and worry this will prohibit me from other experiences.

Part of the reason teaching overseas is calling me is that I am looking to take time to see the world and decide on what direction I want my career to go. My experiences teaching in my home country have been great, and I look to further that. But, I am worried about feeling trapped and simply overworking myself just like I could do at home. Is this an unwarranted worry?

Anyway, my main question is this:

- are there other schools/English language institutes/companies that offer comparable professionalism and structure as CDI that provide just a little more freedom in vacation time, curriculum, and a general more open model than a corporate one? Is it that less large-scale schools would provide this flexibility (any names? suggestions?)?

Thanks for all your insight in advance!