Update on teaching abroad

[peacetraveler22]

Some of you have written to ask about my plans to teach English abroad, which I discussed in this post. I was invited for a Skype interview tomorrow, and will let you know what transpires. This is my first interview via the laptop, and it seems strange to me but it's the only option when you're trying to recruit candidates from the other side of the globe, at least for the initial screening interview.

I have no idea what questions they will ask, but it's just an introductory session to learn more about the "Teach & Learn with Georgia" program, what they expect from me, and where I may be placed (in Tbilisi or some remote village). They will discover more about my qualifications, life goals and personality in the process...it's like a date almost, to see if we are compatible. :)

This will be my first time speaking with native Georgians, so let's see what happens. Already there were some challenges in the application process. Email addresses and forms on the official websites of The Georgian Ministry of Education and Science did not work, causing frustration and inefficiency with sending documents and applications, etc. Maybe this is done on purpose, to prepare potential teachers for the challenges they might face if they move to the country.

It's a huge life decision, but it seems the opportunity is one step closer, if I choose to seize it. Lots of balls in the air to try to juggle and balance. Stay tuned...:)

Comments

[peacetraveler22.livejournal.com]

You can never replace in-person communication, with employers, friends or family. The energy and perceptions are different. But we must make do with what we have, and it's the only option in this case. I don't get nervous during interviews, so I expect things to go fine. :)

[yacc11.livejournal.com]

You know I had a few personal communications with US managers ( when they visited Russia ) and seems to it's quite good for my duty and responsibility :) I'm not an emotional seeker :)
But real-life communication is different definetely.

[peacetraveler22.livejournal.com]

This job is focused on people, so it's different than a computer or programming job, where you sit behind a desk and screen all day. Personality, patience, and a pleasant attitude are important when dealing with children. :)) I hope the program takes care in selecting potential teachers, so these Georgian children are exposed to respectful, caring Americans. Not wild, immature and reckless ones. :)

[yacc11.livejournal.com]

In human-focused jobs in-personal interview is mandatory. So I think it's like a prerequisite before the second interview in Georgia :)

[peacetraveler22.livejournal.com]

Everything is done remotely, and there is only one interview. If they like you, you are accepted and then fly to Tbilisi for the training, which is minimal. Basically, you are thrown into the jungle, and must fend for yourself. This is my impression of the program. :) Learn as you go, and try to adjust to the new culture and circumstances. Seems to me that business relations in this part of the world are much more fluid and loosely structured compared to the U.S., at least this has been my impression to date. This is both good and bad...:)

[yacc11.livejournal.com]

I think US pays more attention to children because of more strict laws. :) Probably that is why Georgians think that you're motivated and more careful :) It was practice like that some times ago in Russia - to trust peoples from the US without any additional checks :)

[peacetraveler22.livejournal.com]

I think everyone should be trusted, until they give you a reason for doubt, or show poor character. In the context of every day relationships, I mean, not employment.

[yacc11.livejournal.com]

I would rather say 'give a chance' than 'be trusted' :)

[peacetraveler22.livejournal.com]

Well, it's just semantics, but the impact of both is the same. You open yourself up to others, with the potential to be crushed and disappointed. Or delighted and reinvigorated. :))

[yacc11.livejournal.com]

I would prefer to minimize the risk rather than being open for everyone :)

[peacetraveler22.livejournal.com]

Pessimist! :))

[yacc11.livejournal.com]

Yes I am :))))