Beyond Borders
I’m thinking about pursuing a English teaching position abroad. The pay, benefits, and living incentives for teaching in places like Korea, Japan, and the Philippines are exciting. So is it the thought of living abroad and experiencing a completely new culture. My concern is on the influence that kind of experience will have on my resume and employment marketability when I return to the US. If I take an assignment for a 2-3 years are come back home. Will employers see potential in an applicant with experience abroad or will they be uninterested out of fear of hiring someone who’s out of touch?
Perhaps you should learn the English language before you think about teaching it. Your email was full of grammatical errors and that gives me pause to think you have what it takes to teach the English language to others.
Marie: international experience is bound to enhance your resume and make you stand out from other job applicants. But if you want to teach English, look to proofread more carefully, sharpen your skills, or have a good editor read anything you plan to send out. I don't wish to discourage you, but the several grammatical errors in your e-mail do not give the strongest possible example of writing skills. Sharpen those tools!
Global experience is valued in this highly connected world. My daughter moved to Singapore for 3-years out of college. She is highly successful
teaching abroad is an advantage if you decide to go back to school for a higher degree. Most Universities rate real world experience high.
I don't think it will hurt your career back home as long as your able to make the most out of the experience. International experience always looks good on a resume but make sure your teaching credentials overseas are transferrable and considered viable experience with the education industry in the US.
Managing a class of forty students is a skill that grows with practice. Of course it will be recognized. Surviving in a foreign country also indicates bravery and tolerance. If you stay in one location, you make expect to save half of what you make, too.