Things to Beware of When Working in China

[son of coco]

Hello all!

I've recently been applying for jobs all over the place, some of which have been in China.

I was wondering if anyone who has or is currently working there has any tips for the prospective employee. I've applied to EF Urumqi, and while the area itself looks amazing I've read some bad things former teachers have written about working at the school. It's hard to know what to believe when these stories pop up so I thought I'd ask for some tips.

Thank you in advance!

[waixingren]

Most people steer clear of EF in Asia. However, I have heard that some of their schools are pretty good. I personally like Urumqi and the surrounding areas--there are some quiet, small cities nearby and the whole province is very inexpensive.

Just be sure to ask lots of questions when you get interviewed (on phone, in person, or by e-mail). If your contact doesn't answer the questions or answers in roundabout ways, move on to somewhere else. It is especially important to ask for contact information for current and/or former employees.

When you hear horror stories you need to use your own judgment. It depends on what you're looking for. If you're ok simply being entertainment for children and not really educating students in any way, then you'll have a much easier time at most schools.