Teaching English While You See the World

Almost everyone dreams about traveling and seeingyou're interested in teaching, and then do an internet
the world. What better way to do it than with asearch for schools or organizations in that area. Most
rewarding career? If you're considering teachingof them will specify on their website whether or not
English abroad, chances are good you've got thethey accept applications from foreign locales. And
wanderlust... and little fear of being gone for a gooddon't forget to frequently check job bank
period of time.databases-perhaps the best way to stay informed
If you've already weighed the pros and cons andabout current job openings.
decided that this is the career for you, chances areIf you go through a teacher's certification program,
good you know what the requirements are. You maychances are good they will offer a job placement
even be working on your degree as you read this.service that can connect you to the right people and
Nonetheless, here's a basic run-down of what typesplaces. This is why being certified really is a huge
of people are best suited for this job.benefit- it can get your foot in the door before you're
• You're free to travel. This one is obvious. Buteven done with the program.
many overseas teaching jobs require a much biggerIf, on the other hand, you're not certified to teach
time commitment than you might be expecting. BeEnglish abroad, there are still employers that may want
prepared to be overseas for at least one year at ato hire you. Consider joining the Peace Corps for a
time.chance to teach overseas, as well as possible
• You're certified to teach. Although it's not aassistance with any continuing education of your own.
requirement for every program, it'll be a hugeTalk to your college regarding teacher exchange
advantage if you are certified in teaching English as aprograms- some schools may offer you the chance to
second language. Most colleges offer programs thatbe an assistant teacher overseas for a semester or
will help you get the degrees you need. If you're nottwo while a foreign teacher visits your school.
college-inclined, you can also get your certificateThese are all good ways to get your feet wet;
through various short-term programs.however, if you plan on teaching English abroad as a
• You know what you're looking for. Not all positionscareer, you should plan on certification eventually. It's
for teaching English abroad are based in schools.the only real way to ensure a job as well as a
Although there are certainly plenty of jobs available ifpaycheck.
you want to teach children, there are also variousHowever you decide to go about it, be prepared for
programs aimed at businesses and corporatethe fact that teaching English abroad is going to be a
organizations. Lots of adults overseas want to learnchallenging experience. Chances are good it won't be
English, too!what you're expecting, so do as much research as
Finding a Jobyou can... and be sure to unpack your sense of
When it comes time to begin applying for positions, youadventure before you begin.
have a wide range of options available to you. If you'reFor tips on growing wisteria, laburnum tree and other
a certified teacher, the best place to begin is with ainformation, visit the Gardening Central website.
school search. Try to narrow the field to areas where