Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Ashcroft]

I'm tentatively looking to go to Korea this summer for a year, but I'm also planning on starting grad school back here in the states in the fall of 2008, meaning that I'd be applying this fall while abroad.

How difficult would this be? Specificially, I'm wondering how reliable the international mail service is and how long it takes for mail to arrive (going both ways). In such a situation, would it maybe be best to use my US address to receive all communications and just have a family member fill me in on what arrives and FedEx stuff over as necessary, like when I actually need to sign something? Am I right in thinking that FedEx would be the best way to ensure timely delivery?

Thanks!

[oneofthesarahs]

I would say that applying for grad school is completely feasible, although marginally inconvenient. Most schools will have the vast majority of their application form online, and things like transcripts your parents can mail for you. There is the possibility of needing a signature on something, but if you make sure you apply early as opposed to waiting for the last minute, I doubt you're going to have any problems with shipping time.

I fully plan on applying for Teach for America while I'm in Korea, and I don't anticipate it being a problem.

[kotakji]

Should be no problem at all- order or download the application packet, fill it out, and send it. You should have to get some recommendation letters sent but that just means starting a little earlier then you otherwise would.

[carrotpatchkid]

I just did my applications a few months back and I didn't actually have to personally mail out anything. Hell, one school even notified me via email. I don't think there's much to really concern yourself with in terms of the application process but I'd have decisions mailed to my family in the US.

[formerflautist]

I did my applications online. Some schools will have the option to receive communication via e-mail. I had decisions mailed to me here and it hasn't been a problem getting anything.

[pkang0202]

It shouldn't be a problem. Make sure you bring your check book with you to Korea in case you gotta mail a check to pay for the application fee or to pay your undergrad school for extra transcripts.

I believe there's even a kaplan center in Seoul so you can take some grad school tests there too.

[Ecumenist]

I applied while I was in Korea, got the acceptance notification while I was in India on a round the world trip and am now attending my school.

Kein Problem.

[VirginIslander]

You are going from Korea to Teach for America.

You are in for a shock! Be prepared to teach fifteen year old gang bangers with a third grade education. Im not joking.

[VirginIslander]

Can you apply now as a nondegree student, and if so, take a few online courses during your potential stay in Korea? A few months later you can apply to your program.

Then, once you return to the school of your choice, where you were accepted, you will have fewer classes to complete (assuming there is an online class or two in your program).

-VI