Coming To Taiwan

[rohan]

Hi Everyone,

I'm new here and wanted to say hello and ask a few questions as I'm soon to arrive in Tawian at the end of August 06.

(Before starting I hope these questions aren't too daft but this is a whole new world to me which I am exploring for the first time).

I have a Masters Degree in Marketing Management (was awarded the University award for academic excellence) but DON'T have an undergrad I was accepted into the Masters course from my management experience. NOR do I have CELTA etc. I have been told by some organisations that just having a Masters Degree is enough but; (Question 1) will not having an undergrad degree or CELTA prevent me from getting certain jobs? Will I be limited to the lower end of the employment spectrum. (I'm not sure if it helps but I have lots of corporate training experience and used to be managing editor for several magazines).

Question 2
I have been in contact with the John Dewey Education consultants. Does anyone know anything about them and their professionalism and integrity? I must say that to date I have found them very keen and helpful (but that's only email).

Question 3
From experience is it better to wait till I get to Taiwan before meeting recruitment agents or is lining something up first better? Normally I would wait till I got there but it seems a little problematic with getting the correct VISA if I dont have a job first. IE I need to arrive, get a job, leave again to get the right VISA, come back again. Is this the correct process (pick the seasoned traveller *lol*).

Okie guys, I hope these questions aren't too daft, Im sure they must have been asked a thousand times but any insights would be so much appreciated.

I can't wait to start this new adventure and might see you in Taiwan.

Hope all are well
Rohan

[Antonio]

(Question 1) will not having an undergrad degree or CELTA prevent me from getting certain jobs?

Definitely. Some employers will only recruit those with a TESL or CELTA certificate. It's starting to become the norm in the teaching industry.

As you have a Master's degree instead of a Bachelor's degree, you wont be disadvanted in this respect. It's only the lack of a TESL or CELTA certificate that I would be worried about.

Question 2
I have been in contact with the John Dewey Education consultants. Does anyone know anything about them and their professionalism and integrity? I must say that to date I have found them very keen and helpful (but that's only email).

Haven't heard anything bad about them. They do always seem to have a heap of jobs available whether this means anything to you. Give them a go, why not, but still have backup plans. Take a job with them if you like, and if they start to take too much of an advantage of you, drop them and go elsewhere.

Question 3
From experience is it better to wait till I get to Taiwan before meeting recruitment agents or is lining something up first better?

I would line something up before you arrive. Agents will bend over backwards to answer your questions, and help arrange everything for you, so why not take advantage of this invaluable service. As long as the agent doesn't rip you off, then you are fine. Many times, whether you go direct to a school or via an agent, the salary will be the same for the teacher.

Let me know if you need further help Rohan!

[rohan]

Hi Antonio,

many thanks for your speedy reply, your insights are a huge help. I will make contact with a few placement agents and take it form there.

I must say this is just a fantastic site, for what is a huge change in career direction for me there is obviously some trepidation and having this forum for feedback is just brilliant.

Many thanks, Im sure Im going to have loads more questions as I get into this.

Rohan

[Antonio]

Glad to be of help. If you have further questions, just fire away. Thanks for your kind words!