Mandy Banks - TEFL Traveller

1. Age when you taught: 24
2. Nationality: Canada
3. Where did you teach?: Shanghai, China
4. Time spent teaching per week
   22
5. How long did you teach for?
   2 years
6. What was your pay?
   $1000 CAD per month
7. What is the biggest lesson you learned from your teaching English experience?
   1. Doublecheck your contract agreements down to the last detail.
   2. Regarding number 1, specify exactly how many hours are spent in the classroom.
   3. Also regarding number 1, ask specifically how many schools you will be teaching at and their proximity to each other.
8. What is the most common misconception about teaching English?
   That it's easy and always tons of fun. It can be fun, but it's also damn hard work, especially if you lack access to supplies, materials etc.
9. Did you get certified?: yes
   Why or why not?
   I was told you needed it. This was before I learned TESOL certification is optional in China.
10. If you were certified, what was your certification and how did you acquire it? Also, did your certification help you when trying to find a job? How?
    TESOL certificate, through teachandtravel.com
    Most schools ask that you be TESOL certified as part of THEIR requirements, not necessarily the government. But if you're willing to settle for less pay, there are plenty of school who will snap up a foreigner on a holiday visa to teach.
11. If you did not get certified, was it harder to find a job? Why?
    
12. When looking for a certification program, what are the things to look for?
    I wouldn't know. I went with the first - and cheapest - one I could find.
13. What are some common 'traps' that teachers fall into while teaching English abroad?
    1. Relying too much on a translator with grade 1's. An ESL teacher can communicate anything with enough pictures and body language. 2. Agreeing to do more then what they're paid to do. Adhere to your contract and don't let administrators or officials overwork you while making it seem like a fun and extra thing to do.
14. What do you wish you would have done differently?
    Brought more materials and supplies. Had I known I was going to be this ill-equipped, I would have brought an extra trunk filled with children's books, maps, atlas's, posters etc, etc.
15. What are the best things about teaching English abroad?
    Seeing the world from a new perspective. You're not just visiting the country - you get to live there, experience daily life and become part of the community.
16. Did you travel before or after your program? If so, where?
    A little but just throughout North America - road trips through the US and Canada mainly.
17. What would be your advice to people thinking about teaching English abroad?
    Be prepared. Nitpick over your contract down to the last detail before signing. When you think you've asked enough questions and are ready to sign, ask more. I have never seen so many loopholes in all my life. My first year of teaching was pure torture with a 13 hour a day schedule and 3 schools (with an hour commute between the three). My seonc year went a lot smoother as a result of knowing what details to haggle over. If a school official or police officer asks to see your passport for a security check regarding your residence permit, show it - but do not let them take it for whatever reason.
    Last bit of advice? Email someone who is in the country you are thinking of going to. www.daveseslcafe.com is a great way to meet people. Also ask for emails from people who have worked for your potential employer to get the dirt.

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