Do Something Exotic With Your Degree And Teach English In China

The demand for English teachers all over the world is growing quickly. As more countries interact with each other through business and other types of communication, the need for English speakers in foreign lands is growing. And nowhere is this need greater than in China.

If you're considering teaching English in China, you've chosen a challenging and competitive field. Every day language students choose China as their career field, but the need still far outweighs the avai...

Keywords:

Teach English, Teaching English, Teaching English Overseas, ESL Jobs, ESL, TEFL, TESOL

Article Body:

The demand for English teachers all over the world is growing quickly. As more countries interact with each other through business and other types of communication, the need for English speakers in foreign lands is growing. And nowhere is this need greater than in China.

If you're considering teaching English in China, you've chosen a challenging and competitive field. Every day language students choose China as their career field, but the need still far outweighs the available teachers.

For those who plan to teach English in China, there are a few basics you should know before beginning a job search.

Qualifications

All you really need to teach English in China is a college degree and fluency in English. Many countries require language teachers to have TEFL or ESL certification; however, China does not consider this a requirement. Nonetheless, it's wise to get certified before you begin your job search. It'll put you far ahead of the pack.

Getting certified in ESL is an easy process. Many colleges and community schools offer month-long certification programs. If you're planning on teaching overseas, it's best to arm yourself with a certificate just in case the job hunt is a little more cutthroat than you had expected.

Steps to Finding a Job

1. Study the Chinese culture. Keep in mind that when you teach English in China, you'll be living in China for at least the length of a school term, so you'll want to know as much as possible about your future home.

2. Research the Chinese school system and decide what level you'd like to teach at. English is taught from grade school all the way up through university level. Some businesses will also hire you to teach their employees English skills, or you may be interested in teaching conversational skills to adults in general.

3. Make the necessary contacts. This may require some international phone calls. The Internet will be an invaluable tool at this point. Contact schools, universities, businesses and job boards to determine which jobs are right for you. Once you’ve selected some companies that you want to apply to, follow their guidelines for the application process.

4. Talk to your college. Many universities will have arrangements with Chinese schools; these "sister school" programs allow you to teach English in China while a Chinese teacher visits your school. The organization where you get your ESL certification will also most likely have a job placement assistance program.

Know What to Expect

Keep in mind that if you choose to teach English in China, it won't necessarily be the most financially rewarding career available- at least, not at first. Many Chinese universities will only require you to teach 14-15 classroom hours a week; however, you will be expected to be available for office hours and other types of responsibilities.

Don't be afraid to negotiate terms. Although your paycheck may not be very impressive, most universities or companies will provide you with airfare to and from China. Some universities will offer paid housing for foreign teachers, which eliminates the hassle of finding and paying for an apartment or house.

If you have a master's degree or a doctorate, you may qualify to work as a Foreign Expert in a Chinese university. Foreign Experts teach higher level classes and generally get a higher pay rate than Foreign Teachers.

Choosing to teach English in China is not just a career- it's a major commitment, so it’s important to think carefully before making your final decision! If you love the Chinese culture; if teaching English is your passion; if you're unafraid of new and challenging situations- then you've quite possibly found the right career field.

Do I Need A Degree To Be A Fashion Designer?

Do I need an education to be a fashion designer? You might be asking yourself this question at the end of high school or sixth form. The answer is preferably yes, as a degree in fashion will give you the practical tools and training and creative stimulation to follow your dream. But if the thought of spending money and time at school or university puts you off, the answer could be an Internet course in fashion training.

A career in the glamorous world of fashion must be on...

Keywords:

fashion, fashion training, textiles, fashion degree, fashion education, fashion school

Article Body:

Do I need an education to be a fashion designer? You might be asking yourself this question at the end of high school or sixth form. The answer is preferably yes, as a degree in fashion will give you the practical tools and training and creative stimulation to follow your dream. But if the thought of spending money and time at school or university puts you off, the answer could be an Internet course in fashion training.

A career in the glamorous world of fashion must be one of the most exciting and lusted after jobs in the world. The field attracts people who have high levels of creativity, an eye for matching colours and designs and an interest in popular and designer fashion. Your course will build on these abilities and teach you much more.

Throughout your training you will learn about the different talents that are necessary for you to get the best start in this highly competitive career. Options taught include how to design and present your ideas, and more practical essentials such as textiles and garment making basics.

A degree may also equip you with the knowledge, skills and attitude you will need to succeed in the business side of fashion. You might want your qualification to lead to a job with an established clothing design company- anywhere from Prada to Primark. Or maybe you fancy using your talent and training to start your own business. Individual courses may give you extra training in options such as business studies and media and advertising.

Other complementary courses include Pattern, Cutting and Design training, Dress Making or Textiles courses and related subjects like Free Hand Drawing or Art and Design. Wherever you choose to follow your interest, whether at college or on the net, the education providers should help you choose which combination of fashion degree options is best for you.

An Internet course has the added benefit that you can complete it in your own home, at your own pace. This means you can complete you training without having to give up your current job or even move away to study. These online courses vary in expense and quality, so it is important to think carefully about you decision before committing to anything.

In an online course you will still benefit from the expertise of knowledgeable tutors who should have lots of experience in the fashion business. These tutors will work with you individually, guiding you through your studies via email and interactive websites. There may even be options such as virtual lectures or message boards where you can discuss your ideas with other students.

Most fashion training courses will end with some form of coursework or outside assessment. Upon completion, you should find yourself with the skills, ability and confidence to use your talent and make your mark on the streets and on the dance floor. Good luck!