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What do you all think?

Posted: 23 Apr 2009, 08:59
by Ellechim
I have read this a few times from Systematic:

As you don't mention it, we are probably assuming that you already have a university degree. If you don't, you are in for a bumpy ride, the prospects of getting good employment will be practically nill, and there will almost certainly be no opportunities for advancement - as Harvey-Gormullah has found out much to his distress, dismay, disillusionment, and depression.

Now I have to say it worries me so can I explain my situation and let me know what you think and what the next step should be:

I decided earlier this year that it was not possible to stay in the office environment. I live in Ireland (Australian passport) and in the phrase 'go hard or go home' the recession in Ireland is one of the worst (the goverment is good at something!). So after research I decided to do CELTA with IH Dublin. All I can say, what an amazing learning curve, I have enjoyed every minute of it, I cannot imagine going into a classroom without it, it has been a revelation that I can enjoy something so much!

I nearly completed a business degree many years ago and a few years ago I started a law degree, I did 2 years and then stopped (I know, there is nothing you can say that I have not said to myself). Anyway I have looked into OU and I can transfer the successful subjects and get a BA online, which is a huge relief it has to be said.

What I am worried about is what Systematic said. I have been working for 15 years and I would of thought that would of counted for something, I know it is not directly relevant but it shows that I am stable and can work with others!

My plan is to work in Italy. I have heard there are projects within the public high schools and I was wondering if anyone knew anything about that and how I can look into that.

I would appreciate any advice as to how to put that across to employers in a positive way, how it should be presented in a CV and if anyone has any contacts with the Italian high school thing.

PS: CELTA has a pass, B and A. So far I have met the standard for everthing (except one when I left the procedures on the printer) how in the last few weeks can I aim for the B?

Thanks for the read I know it is long and I look forward to all your answers!

Re: What do you all think?

Posted: 23 Apr 2009, 12:29
by Alex Case
Maybe your best bet is to get a certificate in teaching Business English (LCCI and Trinity are the two most well respected) and so make that point on your CV more of a selling point. Can't say that will completely make up for the lack of a degree, but will give you a few more options while you finish the OU one off

The other potential bump is being Australian in Italy- I'm not sure if/ how you can get a working visa as having one in one EU country is usually no help in getting one in another

Re: What do you all think?

Posted: 23 Apr 2009, 13:37
by Ellechim
Hi Alex

Thanks for responding. I know the visa thing, I am eligible for a passport through my husband, I am getting that paperwork together now.

I am planning to observe the Business English class and I think that is a great idea to to the business english, I will look into it.

If I made changes to my cv, would anyone volunteer to look at?

Re: What do you all think?

Posted: 24 Apr 2009, 08:35
by systematic
Hi Ellchim,

Unfortunately, what you have done before professionally will probably be of very little interest to recruiters unless it directly concerned teaching.

I also think that if your previous studies, plus the CELTA ,will provide you with transferable credits, finishing one of the degrees you started would be the best passport to reasonable work.