I'm Interested...What Next?

[PAN]

Hello,

I never thought I'd write, or say, this, but I'm interested in being a teacher.
I've been searching the net for information on ESL, teaching abroad, etc. This forum seems to be a plethora of related info. So first, thank you for all the info I will learn soon (although the Chinese bathroom pics I have seen are a bit scary). Second, where do I start?

I know the first step should be getting a TESL certificate or diploma, correct? I don't have a passport yet either, so that would probably be a crucial step.
What next?

If it matters, I am from the United States, with a degree in Liberal Arts (very useful, I know). I am a single male with varied work experiences, none teaching though. I have helped coach children's sports in the past. I have a decent creative writing background. Also, I'm interested in teaching abroad anywhere, for the most part, although the higher the pay, the more I'd be interested.

Again, thanks for any help and the forum.

[gfell]

Welcome to the ESL boards PAN!

Teaching English is a wonderful experience and allows you to travel the world whilst earning good money. Let me help you with some of the steps you should be taking:

1. Complete a TESL course.
2. Decide which country you want to go to. Whilst you are doing your TESL course, start to think which countries would best suit your needs. Personally, I prefer Japanese food to Korean food, hence one of the reasons why I am in Japan. Also, I find it easier to learn Japanese than Korean.
3. Learn the language. Learning the local language will make your time so much more enjoyable overseas. I suggest getting a good text book to teach you the fundamentals before even arriving to the country. Once you arrive, try to make it a habit to have a language class once a week. A private teacher would be best for this. You could even do language exchange if funds are a bit tight at first. This would be a great way for you to meet new friends.
4. Definitely get a passport!
5. Research the country you have chosen. Will you need an international driver's license in order to ride a scooter? Will you need to bring your own medications / deodorants etc? Will you need to buy new shoes before heading abroad because your shoe size is 30cm, and in Asia, it's impossible to buy 30cm... These are some of the questions you need to ask yourself.

Don't worry about the fact that you have a Liberal Arts degree. As long as you have a degree, no matter what discipline, then the schools and visa office will be happy.

Japan, Taiwan, Korea, Singapore and Hong Kong are the best places to save money. Also look at the cost of living compared to the salary you would be earning.

[PAN]

Thanks for the simple and organized answer. I am going to take an online TESL course starting next week. The passport process has begun. Now to check out where I would like to teach. I notice there are so many openings in China! Wow!