It’s been a few days since I last blogged, I know. I’m finally settled into my apartment in Sunae. That’s after spending a week in what my coworkers call the “love motel.” I think that has something to do with the motel-provided condoms and the pay-by-the-hour rates.
I’ve enjoyed the school so far, but I won’t mention much about my actual work here on the site because I know people have gotten fired for blogging about work in the past. Nevertheless, I’m enjoying it. If you ever do want to know more details about my work, which is teaching Korean children English, you can just ask in the comments and I can e-mail you.
So far, I’ve enjoyed South Korea. Sure, after a week, I’ve felt a little homesick. But, I’m sure that’s more to do with not being able to call everyone I’m used to calling. My cell phone was like a drug, and I’m feeling some of the withdrawal pains now.
The language barrier is a little rough, but as long as you can figure out the money system, it’s easier to get around. I’ve really got to learn my numbers.
I’ve tried Korean barbeque, Korean pizza, and various cabbage-type things (I actually enjoy cabbage now, who knew?). However, I haven’t been eating as much since I’ve arrived, which may not be a bad thing considering how much weight I’ve gained in the last year.
My first week has been a little overwhelming—learning a new job, language, culture, and city. Even though it has been been overwhelming, I’ve enjoyed the experience thus far.
I plan on updating with some pictures at some point, and becoming a more frequent blogger also. Now that I’m settled in, I’m sure it’ll be easier.
Glad you are getting settled. I can imagine it being overwhelming. I’d be lost with out my cell phone..
Haven’t heard from you yet, so decided that this might be the place to get a reply. Give me an email when you get a chance. Just want to know how it’s going. Ya know… sights, smells, sounds, housepet delicacies, etc… Have fun and take it all in man. Talk to you later.
Thanks for the replies. I’ve just been really busy lately. Plus, I’ve had some problems with the computer that I’ll explain the next time I blog.
Danny, I’m glad you’re at least trying to keep in touch. And nope, I haven’t tried any housepet delicacies just yet. I’ll send you an e-mail soon.
Hi. I stumbled across your blog while I was looking for something.. and I have to tell you, your post on the rules for dating your best friend is genius! You’re a very talented writer, and honestly, I can’t stop reading your posts!
If you don’t mind, could I link you to my blog? I think my friends need to read your stuff.
And.. as an Asian, I say welcome to Asia! South Korea is a great place, and I’m sure you’ll have fun. If you can, come and visit Malaysia yeah! =)
Thanks for stopping by Sarah. You’re always welcome to link to my blog. And thank you for the compliments on my writing.
Thus far, Korea has been fun. I’ve always wanted to see what eastern culture is like, and I’m enjoying it.
Hi!
I just came across your blog while researching G’Day Korea as a valid organization. As a blogger myself, I was relieved to see that G’Day Korea did bring you to S. Korea. (Some of their communication tactics are a little awkward for being a recruiting service.)Anyhow, I would be working for a month in S. Korea in a camp for kids learning English! Do you have any comments about your job as a teacher, G’Day Korea, your University, or even the culture shock?
And, if I do go, perhaps we could meet!
Best,
Rebecca
Actually, G’Day didn’t bring me to Korea. My school, Avalon English, did. The more I talk to others doing this, the more I realize how crappy G’Day Korea is. They’re definitely a valid organization, but as you said, “their communication tactics are a little awkward.” There are definitely better agencies out there. But, I may not have had the best recruiter either. Yours may be better.
Make sure you find out every little detail before you go. I was just kind of thrust out here with no clear direction on what to do or anything.
As far as teaching goes, I think everyone’s experience is different. Thus far, it’s been fairly easy. I teach at an English academy for elementary school kids 7 hours a day, get paid well, and have free rent.
Check up on your school or organization before you go. If you can, search the South Korean message boards on Facebook for your school. I’ve found that a lot of the people using Facebook in that network are Americans and Canadians teaching English. I have met people that have had bad experiences because of their school.
The culture shock isn’t too bad. I think it has to do with where you are staying too. I live near Seoul, and it’s the most liberal area in Korea. Some of the older people tend to be a little racist sometimes, but it won’t bother you much.
My advice is ask about everything. Check on everything. G’Day will get you a job, but it’s their job to get you a job. My school pays $2,000 for every teacher G’Day brings in. Your recruiter’s job is to get paid for placing you somewhere. Remember that. Ask to talk to another foreigner that is doing what you will be doing. Get the details from them if possible.
I also hope you’re not a cheeseburger or milk fanatic because it’s hard to find good burgers or milk in Korea.
Make sure your school is paying your rent and airfare both ways. You should also make at least 2 million won a month. Anything less than this, isn’t the right job. These things are fairly standard.
I hope this helps in at least some small way. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. We can definitely meet if you decide to come out.
Hey there! I came across your site doing research on G’Day Korea. I noticed you said there are better agencies, would your recommend PlanetESL? I have been talking to both G’Day Korea as well as PlanetESL. Are there any other companies I should look into as well.
I hope you are getting settled and things are going well. I am planning on heading over to South Korea in Jan 2008. Any other tips?
Thanks so much for you help! As well as your blog! It has def been helpful on what to expect!!
Hi Justin.
I’m doing some reading up on G’day Korea and people’s experiences. Glad there is someone with a blog to read through.
I’m guessing that this is your first out of country job right? Have you looked at any of the other web resources on ESL teaching in general or other countries? I only ask because I recently ran across GaijinPot and there seemed to be a lot of negativity over there.
Anyway, my real question is just about teaching in general. I did a bit of teaching English over the summer while I was in Japan and I found it to be pretty intimidating. Are your students motivated to learn? I found some of my kids were more interested in goofing off. What sort of training did you get? Was it through G’Day or your school?
Is this a contract position with something similar to a Japanese Eikaiwa or a public school?
Sorry to bombard you with so many questions, and I should really read the rest of your blog, but if you could let me know some of the details I’d appreciate it.
If I decide to jump aboard I might buy you a beer or something when I get there in February.
Hi, I am looking for a job through G’Day Korea and like you said, their recruiting has been awkward. Could you tell me a little about where you are, the good and bad about the country and the school? I was in Japan and I got burned by Nova. I was left homeless and stranded and I’m starting to worry that it might be similar in Korea. Any info you could give me would really help me out. Thanks a lot.
Carla, Matt, and Jamison
I just recently wrote a post covering some of the questions you’ve asked: So, you wanna teach English in South Korea? If you don’t mind, read through that. If you have any more questions afterward, ask them on that post.
This is my first job out here, and I get a lot of emails about it, so I decided to write a post on the process and what to expect when you arrive.
Hey…my girlfriend and I are considering coming to S. Korea to teach English. I’m all for it but naturally she has a lot of questions…health care? Class size? Age of students? Certifications required? If you have time just shoot me an email..thanks and I hope all is well.
Jon
I’ve written a post called So, you wanna teach English in South Korea? I think this may help answer some of your questions. I’ve been trying to redirect everyone to that post, so that we can keep an ongoing discussion there. Maybe it’ll be a good resource for everyone that stumbles upon this site.
Hi Justin. I came across your blog when searching for Avalon English. I am considering a position with them in SUNAE as well. Could u email me asap and we can talk specifics? Thanks.
What are good questions to ask elementary school students and middle-school students? I have to think of questions, but I find it’s difficult because I do not know how to frame it for their context as Korean students and the context for different age groups (such as, middle schoolers would find some different things to be more fun than elementary students and vice versa). I wish I could find a first person recounting of their life in each age group. Some games come and go, but the psychology is there. A good psychological guide for their culture and the problems and idea of fun, rewards and punishment would be good as well.
Kids are very playful here too. How they got from humorless and stiff in Confucian classes days to more playful in class than even troublemakers in American schools, I have to wonder. One good thing about middle schoolers is, they sit down; the bad thing is, they are more shy and less likely to talk to you than sleep, talk to each other in Korean or play computer games.
Thanks!
Phil
Hi Justin!
I’m thinking about teaching English in South Korea as well.
Could you email me so that I can get some more details about it from you?
Thanks a bunch.
-Lisa
The following link returns a 404. Please email me with a link so I may read up. Thank you
http://justintadlock.com/archives/2007/12/07/so-you-wanna-teach-english-in-south-korea
Hi Justin,
I am filling out my paperwork to teach over in Korea. I should be there in a few weeks. Email me at deannamhall@hotmail.com so we can talk.
Thanks for everything!
just wondered if you are still out there working for avalon, im planning to do the same this nqovember. have you any gossip?
Deanna
Sorry I missed your comment. I’m sure it’s a little late to email you now.
Jane
Nope, I’m not out there anymore. I just got back to the States last week.
hey i’m thinking about teaching at avalon school. any advice on that and how it is with social life. its a year contract. i can deal with missing my family and stuff i need to get away.
Hello Justin. I enjoyed reading your blog. I am in the process of trying to obtain a teaching position in South Korea. I would love to speak to you one-on-one to learn a little more about your experience and such. Please e-mail me so we can talk!!
Talk to you later..
P.S. I would definitely be lost without my cell phone, too!!
Hello all….I was just offered a position at Avalon in Bundang, South Korea. I have not accepted yet. I was wondering if anyone had insight on this location/program for me. I am really nervous and want to make the right decision.
Thanks!