Extracts from an email sent by Joanne to another student considering South Korea.

Joanne has been teaching in South Korea since 1st April 2000.

I felt the same as you before I came, ie. apprehensive, slightly nervous and worried that this was the maddest thing I've ever done. Added to this everyone I told about my coming to South Korea were very negative to say the least...

Anyway I've been here for about 12 weeks and it's taken a while to settle in (getting used to the culture, the work schedule and my lack of proper teaching experience). I still can't speak Korean which is a bit of a pain, but I've really started to enjoy myself.

I teach both kindergarten and Hag Won (afternoon lessons for kids). At times I want to kill the kids, other times I have a real laugh. Like anything, there are pros and cons, but the Western teachers are treated really well at my institute so I can't complain.
I came here on my own but I live with a female teacher so I felt that made it easier, but most of the teachers are very friendly.

Joanne Hope
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Drew Talbot

I have been here in Seoul for 5 weeks now, teaching English at a private language institute. The students range from 5 to 17 years, and they are very well behaved, as respect for your elder is a big part of the Korean culture. My monthly wage is good, and the free accommodation provided by the institute is excellent.

I find the Korean culture very interesting, and the people themselves are warm and friendly. If you like spicy food, then this is the place to be, but there are also many western food outlets if you prefer the taste of home. As with the western foods there are also many shops selling western clothes and goods - and it's so cheap out here!

The night life in Seoul is great, I have got to know a few of the western teachers here, and we often go out on the town together. Clubs, bars or cinema, Seoul has got it all.

Before I sign off I would like to thank you for the TEFL course I attended prior to getting my teaching post out here in Korea. Having not had any formal training or experience in teaching before I took part in the course, the knowledge and techniques I learned over the intensive weekend have been invaluable. Your TEFL course has given me the confidence I needed, and I would recommend the course to anyone thinking about becoming an English teacher. I am going to head back to my flat now to get ready for a night on the town.

So thanks again Sue, not just for the course but also for the support and help you gave me through our many telephone conversations. Cheers! Please tell your TEFL students about Korea. It's a wonderful place to live and work, and I recommend it to anyone. The institutes here are crying out for new teachers, so what are you waiting for? Come on! - why not try a Korea-change.