Entry tags:
ESL teacher overseas - I'm thinking about it.
For years I've loved the idea of going overseas and becoming an ESL teacher. Now that I have a Bachelor's degree, I've been thinking about it a bit more. I've read blogs by people who have done it and watched youtube videos. It seems like a great way to save money, learn about new cultures, and see a bit of the world. The only thing is - most contracts are for a whole year and that's an awful long time to be away from family, friends, and the comforts of home. Plus: culture shock! But, it's still something that I'd love to do.
There is just one major issue: my parents. I'm 27, but I still live with them. And, they are VERY overprotective. They don't really think I could do anything. I mean, they've told me to my face that they don't think I can live on my own and that they worry I'll be killed if I live on my own; and that's just their reaction to my thoughts on moving twenty minutes away! I think it would make them feel better if I were to go with a family member or a close friend; but that's not possible.
I haven't told them about my wish to become an ESL teacher overseas, but I did post it on my Facebook and got a positive response. Friends and Ex-classmates seem to think I'm mature and strong enough to do it. But, I know for a fact that my parents and older sister would not like the idea at all. Sure, I could go without their blessing - but, I would have to come home to them.
But, let's be fair. I'm 27, and I know most schools don't want anyone older than 24. Plus, I have a physical disability. So, even if I do all the steps, there's still the chance that a school wouldn't want me. Usually schools look for people in April and September. So, it's too late for April and if I want September, I'd have to start getting stuff together in mid-March. Still time get things together and discuss it with my parents. If I have no job offers by late February, I think I'll try and go for it.
Anyone know anyone whose done the whole ESL thing overseas? I'm hearing the best places are South Korea, Taiwan, and other Asian countries. Wonder if that's true. Also - slightly scared about not knowing the language. You can only get so far with knowing how to say 'Hello' and a few phrases.
There is just one major issue: my parents. I'm 27, but I still live with them. And, they are VERY overprotective. They don't really think I could do anything. I mean, they've told me to my face that they don't think I can live on my own and that they worry I'll be killed if I live on my own; and that's just their reaction to my thoughts on moving twenty minutes away! I think it would make them feel better if I were to go with a family member or a close friend; but that's not possible.
I haven't told them about my wish to become an ESL teacher overseas, but I did post it on my Facebook and got a positive response. Friends and Ex-classmates seem to think I'm mature and strong enough to do it. But, I know for a fact that my parents and older sister would not like the idea at all. Sure, I could go without their blessing - but, I would have to come home to them.
But, let's be fair. I'm 27, and I know most schools don't want anyone older than 24. Plus, I have a physical disability. So, even if I do all the steps, there's still the chance that a school wouldn't want me. Usually schools look for people in April and September. So, it's too late for April and if I want September, I'd have to start getting stuff together in mid-March. Still time get things together and discuss it with my parents. If I have no job offers by late February, I think I'll try and go for it.
Anyone know anyone whose done the whole ESL thing overseas? I'm hearing the best places are South Korea, Taiwan, and other Asian countries. Wonder if that's true. Also - slightly scared about not knowing the language. You can only get so far with knowing how to say 'Hello' and a few phrases.