Seeking Perspectives on TESL

[lawrence]

This is my first post to a really informative site. Because I’m considering TESL and believe that no one can give me better insight into the profession than those who are currently in it, I would like to make a few observations about what I’ve learned and invite further perspectives.

First of all a little BG about myself. I’m 58 years old and currently work as a photographer. I have a BA in English (1970) and hold a Teaching Certificate valid in Quebec. I taught high school for 10 years before leaving that for a career in television production. I left that several years ago to work independently. I enjoyed teaching immensely and would like to return to it on a part-time basis. I am considering teaching English to adults for two reasons: 1) command of a language is an empowering experience and teaching it would make a real difference in the lives of students 2) I see possibilities of using photography as an aid to teaching English.

Unfortunately, what I am gleaming from many of you is that the profession does not command either the respect or the pay that it deserves. The only real incentives for entering the profession (other than travel) would seem to be job satisfaction and making a difference in the lives of those who want to better themselves by learning English. I’m wondering how true that is. We all want to do something that is inherently satisfying and productive but at a fair wage. Is that possible in this profession outside of teaching in the public school sector? If I decide to pursue this option I intend to get my TESL Ontario and Canada certification but I’m hesitating. I’d appreciate hearing other peoples’ perspectives, particularly those who have entered the profession later in life. Thanks to you all.