Older but embarking on new career.
Posted: 21 Jul 2011, 18:35
Hi
I am about to take a TEFL certificate course at a well respected Boston language institute. Upon completion, I'll be looking to start a career as an ESL teacher in Asia. I am a good bit older than most teachers starting out(M, 46) and I'm aware that it may be a bit more difficult to get that first teaching gig. This is a mid life career change for me and not one I've taken lightly. It's something I always wanted to do and through changes in my personal circumstances, I now have the chance, albeit at an older age.
So, I'd like to hear from some of the older teachers and the challenges they have faced. I'd also like to hear some opinions about the countries I am considering and the ability to get a job in these countries
1. JAPAN. This is my first choice by far and the country I really want to spend a good many years living in. It was my desire to live in Japan that led me on this path. However, from what I have read, it is a bit more difficult to land that first job, especially at an older age.
2. TAIWAN. My thoughts are that Taiwan may be an easier place to get that important first job which I can use for some experience for a move to Japan in a year or two. I have also heard that the people are super friendly and a good place to teach.
3. SOUTH KOREA. Similar to Taiwan, in that it may be easier to get that first job, and at a decent salary.
Thoughts please. Pitfalls that I should be aware of. Any general advice would be greatly appreciated.
Also, my career to date has been in the business world. Does anyone think that this may benefit me during interviews where teaching English to adults/businessmen may be part of the curriculum.
I am about to take a TEFL certificate course at a well respected Boston language institute. Upon completion, I'll be looking to start a career as an ESL teacher in Asia. I am a good bit older than most teachers starting out(M, 46) and I'm aware that it may be a bit more difficult to get that first teaching gig. This is a mid life career change for me and not one I've taken lightly. It's something I always wanted to do and through changes in my personal circumstances, I now have the chance, albeit at an older age.
So, I'd like to hear from some of the older teachers and the challenges they have faced. I'd also like to hear some opinions about the countries I am considering and the ability to get a job in these countries
1. JAPAN. This is my first choice by far and the country I really want to spend a good many years living in. It was my desire to live in Japan that led me on this path. However, from what I have read, it is a bit more difficult to land that first job, especially at an older age.
2. TAIWAN. My thoughts are that Taiwan may be an easier place to get that important first job which I can use for some experience for a move to Japan in a year or two. I have also heard that the people are super friendly and a good place to teach.
3. SOUTH KOREA. Similar to Taiwan, in that it may be easier to get that first job, and at a decent salary.
Thoughts please. Pitfalls that I should be aware of. Any general advice would be greatly appreciated.
Also, my career to date has been in the business world. Does anyone think that this may benefit me during interviews where teaching English to adults/businessmen may be part of the curriculum.