For all those who have thought about taking the leap and working abroad, there are always a million questions. People want to know what to expect. Starting a new life abroad, even if only for a short time, can be daunting. Vanessa Lurie, Director of Pegasus Recruiting knows first hand the type of questions people have. She heads up a recruitment company that places recent university graduates in South Korea to teach English. Teaching is an incredible opportunity, she says, but one too few take the leap to do because they are overwhelmed by questions.
So yesterday, at her Vancouver office, Lurie sat down and answered a few common teacher questions.
These are the questions she says she knows are on everyone's mind about teaching in Korea, as she has heard them so many times. What is one of her most asked questions? She says it is about the pay. Recent university graduates are concerned about cash flow. They want disposable cash to do fun things such as travel, but they also often have loans to pay at home.
Here are her responses to what she has identified as the most common questions about teaching ESL in Korea.
What is the salary for teaching English in Korea?
"The salaries in Korea generally average 2 million Korean won per month and vary based on experience. Due to currency fluctuations, it is hard to exactly translate the salary to another currency. However, in the past that has roughly equalled $2000USD per month. Another great advantage about teaching in Korea is that free, furnished apartments are provided for all teachers as part of the contract. While small by North American standards, these furnished apartments are modern and equipped with most of the essentials that the teachers will need during the year. That means that most of what the teachers earn goes directly into their pockets, rather than being lost to local expenses. Airfare to Korea is also part of the package. Employers either pay the airfare up front or reimburse the airfare upon arrival. When the teacher completes the one year contract, they also get the airfare home covered. As if all of that is not enough, teachers also get an end of contract bonus for finishing the contract. The bonuses are usually the equivalent of one month’s salary. Overall, working in Korea is very lucrative and is especially attractive to recent graduates without a lot of funds to start off their travels, as they can get to Korea for free basically! For this reason, Korea is a hot destination for recent graduates, much more so than Japan and Southeast Asia these days.
Another point to consider is that usually private after school academies (hogwans) pay a little more than public schools. However, hogwan hours are in the afternoon and evenings six days a week (Monday-Saturday) while public school hours are during the day only, Monday through Friday"
What about the experience needed to teach in Korea?
"Teachers in Korea do not need a TEFL qualification or any experience. Most teachers in Korea have no teaching experience but simply have the desire to learn how to teach and adapt to Korean culture. The best qualification for teaching in Korea is enthusiasm, an open mind and a desire to learn about a new culture. TEFL qualifications will certainly help the teacher though, and may allow them a slight increase in their monthly salary. Teachers in Korea are required to have a university degree, however. It does not matter what degree teachers have, as long as it is issued from an accredited major university or college. Another requirement of the job is a criminal check."
How can teachers apply?
"The best way to apply to Pegasus is through the website at www.pegasusteachers.com or by sending a resume to info@pegasusteachers.com. Pegasus services are free for the teacher and we only place teachers at pre-screen, reputable schools.
We also have an exciting program, the Pegasus Program where we place a large group of teachers in the same city, starting the same day. They teach for the government's public schools, and we provide them with a social network and activities while they are there. We started the program in August and it has been a huge hit with the teachers. The next program is in February 2009 and will take place in the beautiful coastal city of Busan, South Korea. We are currently taking applications for this program and the deadline in mid January to apply for it.
Other than that, we take applications all year for the private academies in Seoul and other cities.
We also have a Facebook group where teachers can ask questions and connect with other Pegasus teachers.”
Is there much opportunity to travel?
"Yes. China and Japan are especially close and often teachers visit these countries during a long weekend. There are also many opportunities to travel during school vacations and most teachers go to Southeast Asia or even Australia as these places are very accessible and economical from Korea. Also, because teachers have few expenses while in Korea, it is often quite easy to save for travel and most teachers frequently travel around Korea and Asia during their year in Korea. Teachers can live a very rich life on their Korean salary package. "
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Countdown to the Pegasus Program Feb 2009!
Why go with the Pegasus Program?
Because you won't have nearly as much fun with any other placement!
-- teach in Korea's public schools
-- the best support network for the whole process (from application through to the end of the year)
-- a placement organization that really, truly cares about you, the teachers!
(JUST ASK any current Pegasus Program teacher how hard we work to make sure they are alway having a great time, with great people!)
-- the opportunity to immediately meet other teachers in your city
-- the best teaching hours anywhere; finish by 5pm every day!
-- blog and Facebook group to keep teachers connected
AND SO MUCH MORE
contract details:
300,000 KRW signing bonus ($300 USD approz)
Approx $2000/mth
apartment provided
airfare paid by Korean government (reimbursed upon arrival)
way less hours than working at a private academy!
and so much more!!
Pegasus Program Ulsan Sept 2008 photos:
~~~~
Here's what current Pegasus Program August 2008 Teachers are saying:~~~~
"I feel lucky to have been with Pegasus because other English teachers who came through another program were isolated, alone, and lost...They envied us and wanted to be a part of our crew."
"Based on what I've heard from other English teachers here and on my own experience, Pegasus is the only way to go."
"Pegasus just offers more support for its teachers than any other program I've personally heard of. Many of my other friends who didn't go through Pegasus wish they would have because Pegasus made our adjustment to life in Korea that much smoother."
"I would not hesitate to recommend Pegasus...the program is
excellent."
DEADLINES
Application Deadline: Dec 24, 2008 (tell your friends about it)
This is when we need your original application.
We WILL be interviewing over the holidays.
EPIK form deadline: ASAP after applying
Documents in Korea Deadline: January 15, 2009
This is when we need to have all of your compiled docs sent to Korea.
PROCEDURES
To ensure your spot in the program, you need to get a completed EPIK application form to us ASAP.
Once you've sent the EPIK form in, you will receive details of how to compile all of your required documents (degree, transcripts, criminal check, etc.)
Your position, if offered to you, is not secure until your documents are in Korea.
Don't worry, we'll walk you through the whole process in detail when you apply with us.
email epikpegasusprogram@gmail.com to apply!
Monday, November 10, 2008
Asia is so "cool"...
Asian technology.
In some ways, it's sooo much cooler to be a kid in Asia.
Did YOU have a teched out cell phone when YOU were 10?!?!
In some ways, it's sooo much cooler to be a kid in Asia.
Did YOU have a teched out cell phone when YOU were 10?!?!
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Accepting applications for Pegasus Program's February EPIK placements in Ulsan and Busan!
Get your friends over to Korea to join you!!
PEGASUS PROGRAM (EPIK placement) FEB 2009 IN ULSAN & BUSAN!
Pegasus Program Feb 2009 accepting applications NOW
Deadline: November 15,2008
50 spots available in Ulsan; 50 spots in Busan!!
(See our Facebook page for more details & photos of current Pegasus Program September 2008 placements having fun already!)
need info? epikpegasusprogram@gmail.com
PEGASUS PROGRAM (EPIK placement) FEB 2009 IN ULSAN & BUSAN!
Pegasus Program Feb 2009 accepting applications NOW
Deadline: November 15,2008
50 spots available in Ulsan; 50 spots in Busan!!
(See our Facebook page for more details & photos of current Pegasus Program September 2008 placements having fun already!)
need info? epikpegasusprogram@gmail.com
Why go with the Pegasus Program?
Because you won't have nearly as much fun with any other placement!
-- teach in Korea's public schools
-- the best support network for the whole process (from application through to the end of the year)
-- a placement organization that really, truly cares about you, the teachers!
(JUST ASK any current Pegasus Program teacher how hard we work to make sure they are alway having a great time, with great people!)
-- the opportunity to immediately meet other teachers in your city (30 teachers already placed in September; 50+ teachers being placed with the program in February!)
-- All Pegasus Program positions are in the same city and there will be numerous extra-curricular opportunities.
-- the best teaching hours anywhere; finish by 5pm every day!
-- blog and Facebook group to keep teachers connected
-- access to discounted travel throughout Asia – Thailand, Japan, China and more!
AND SO MUCH MORE
Because you won't have nearly as much fun with any other placement!
-- teach in Korea's public schools
-- the best support network for the whole process (from application through to the end of the year)
-- a placement organization that really, truly cares about you, the teachers!
(JUST ASK any current Pegasus Program teacher how hard we work to make sure they are alway having a great time, with great people!)
-- the opportunity to immediately meet other teachers in your city (30 teachers already placed in September; 50+ teachers being placed with the program in February!)
-- All Pegasus Program positions are in the same city and there will be numerous extra-curricular opportunities.
-- the best teaching hours anywhere; finish by 5pm every day!
-- blog and Facebook group to keep teachers connected
-- access to discounted travel throughout Asia – Thailand, Japan, China and more!
AND SO MUCH MORE
contract details:
300,000 KRW signing bonus ($300 USD approz)
300,000 KRW signing bonus ($300 USD approz)
Approx $2000/mth
apartment provided
airfare paid by Korean government (reimbursed upon arrival)
way less hours than working at a private academy!
and so much more!!
Pegasus Program Ulsan Sept 2008 photos:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=6644&l=f51bf&id=1165749826
To apply, please send your resume to epikpegasusprogram@gmail.com with a short paragraph about your international and or teaching experience thus far. (None needed, but we'd like to know about it if you have any!) Also, for the application process to the Korean government etc, we need a photo. If you can send this to me, I can start the application process and arrange an interview!
To apply, please send your resume to epikpegasusprogram@gmail.com with a short paragraph about your international and or teaching experience thus far. (None needed, but we'd like to know about it if you have any!) Also, for the application process to the Korean government etc, we need a photo. If you can send this to me, I can start the application process and arrange an interview!
More pics!
Stay tuned for Chuseok plans to amazing, historic Gyeongju!!
And meanwhile, check out more pics HERE!
And meanwhile, check out more pics HERE!
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Monday, September 1, 2008
MOE contract questions
Pegasus Program Teachers,
Please note that the following concerns/questions should be addressed to Scott Kim (scott@footprintsrecruiting.com) as he is essentially your Korean liaison with the MOE. All of the following issues can only be thoroughly answered by Scott and the MOE, as they are the MOE's responsibility and I have no control over the MOE process. So, if you are wondering/concerned how these issues are being handled, and when, please express your concerns to Scott. He will be able to answer you, and also will be able to alert the MOE to your concerns/questions.
Questions to ask Scott: REIMBURSEMENT, SETTLEMENT FEE, ORIENTATION, HOUSING and all MOE contract related questions...
Please remember, that you are an employee of the MOE. Unlike working in a private school, where we are able to have more contact with the individual schools and processes, when dealing with the MOE there are many more administration levels as it is the government. So, Scott is the one who understands the MOE process and knows who and how to contact the MOE and its schools about any questions/concerns. He also speaks Korean -- a big help. So, he really is your man if you have any MOE or contract questions/concerns.
Also, all of the coteachers are attending a meeting to get info to you about reimbursement, settlement fee, etc. If you still have questions after they have relayed this info to you, please contact Scott. Also know that it is in the coteacher's job description to help you in any way they can, in and out of the classroom. So, please do not worry about relying upon them, and asking them, for information. They are supposed to help you get settled -- in AND out of the classroom.
I hope this helps.
Please note that the following concerns/questions should be addressed to Scott Kim (scott@footprintsrecruiting.com) as he is essentially your Korean liaison with the MOE. All of the following issues can only be thoroughly answered by Scott and the MOE, as they are the MOE's responsibility and I have no control over the MOE process. So, if you are wondering/concerned how these issues are being handled, and when, please express your concerns to Scott. He will be able to answer you, and also will be able to alert the MOE to your concerns/questions.
Questions to ask Scott: REIMBURSEMENT, SETTLEMENT FEE, ORIENTATION, HOUSING and all MOE contract related questions...
Please remember, that you are an employee of the MOE. Unlike working in a private school, where we are able to have more contact with the individual schools and processes, when dealing with the MOE there are many more administration levels as it is the government. So, Scott is the one who understands the MOE process and knows who and how to contact the MOE and its schools about any questions/concerns. He also speaks Korean -- a big help. So, he really is your man if you have any MOE or contract questions/concerns.
Also, all of the coteachers are attending a meeting to get info to you about reimbursement, settlement fee, etc. If you still have questions after they have relayed this info to you, please contact Scott. Also know that it is in the coteacher's job description to help you in any way they can, in and out of the classroom. So, please do not worry about relying upon them, and asking them, for information. They are supposed to help you get settled -- in AND out of the classroom.
I hope this helps.
Also, as for what I personally can and will be doing: I am helping you teachers get connected with each other and familiar with the city as best I can, as this is part of the Pegasus promise to ensure you have the best time possible. The contract issues are Scott and the MOE's areas. The overall experience, the social side of teaching in Korea and communication with each other is MY area. (If you wish to alert me to any particular school/contract issues etc, that is fine. However, know that most of the time, I will simply have to pass these questions/concerns onto Scott as he is the one best equipped to handle them, and he is also the one dealing with the MOE.)
I am also still waiting to hear from Scott/MOE about the new orientation dates.
Cheers,
Tracy
I am also still waiting to hear from Scott/MOE about the new orientation dates.
Cheers,
Tracy
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Ulsan sight highlights to explore Sunday
Hey teachers!
For those who made it out to the social last night, I hope you all had a fabulous time! For those of you who couldn't make it, or who hadn't arrived yet, I will be organizing a similar social next weekend. The few with whom I've spoke this morning so far have said they had a great time. That was indeed the plan -- for you to have a great time TOGETHER your first weekend in Ulsan! (By the way, send some photos -- or tell me if you post any -- as we'd love to add them to our Ulsan album too!)
As for today:
If you want to see some of Ulsan's many cultural highlights (many of them very traditional, such as ruins and temples), then the TWO AREAS you want to explore are ULJU-GU and JUNG-GU. These areas are also right next to each other and almost overlap. Below are some the highlights. These areas have everything from dinosaur footprints and petroglyphs to one of the country's most modern sports complexes! If you decide you'd like to explore these areas today with some of the other teachers, the best area to meet would probably be Munsu Football Stadium. It is right in the middle of the two areas, and then you can decide where you'd like to go from there. Express you interest in meeting up on the Weekend Socializing Facebook group and hopefully you'll find others that are interested. (There's probably a main entrance where you could meet.)
Go to http://english.ulsan.go.kr/Tour/List.php?l=Tour&m=Mountain and click on "Tourist Guide Map." You'll be able to locate these two areas by looking for Munsu Stadium, then looking to the left (and mountain-ward) to fing Ulju-gu sites. Look to the right of the stadium, and still towards the top (most mountainous) part of the page that is least populated and you'll locate sites in the overlapping part of Ulju and then Jung-gu monuments slightly below them).
GOOD LUCK AND ENJOY THE REST OF YOUR FIRST WEEKEND!
For those who made it out to the social last night, I hope you all had a fabulous time! For those of you who couldn't make it, or who hadn't arrived yet, I will be organizing a similar social next weekend. The few with whom I've spoke this morning so far have said they had a great time. That was indeed the plan -- for you to have a great time TOGETHER your first weekend in Ulsan! (By the way, send some photos -- or tell me if you post any -- as we'd love to add them to our Ulsan album too!)
As for today:
If you want to see some of Ulsan's many cultural highlights (many of them very traditional, such as ruins and temples), then the TWO AREAS you want to explore are ULJU-GU and JUNG-GU. These areas are also right next to each other and almost overlap. Below are some the highlights. These areas have everything from dinosaur footprints and petroglyphs to one of the country's most modern sports complexes! If you decide you'd like to explore these areas today with some of the other teachers, the best area to meet would probably be Munsu Football Stadium. It is right in the middle of the two areas, and then you can decide where you'd like to go from there. Express you interest in meeting up on the Weekend Socializing Facebook group and hopefully you'll find others that are interested. (There's probably a main entrance where you could meet.)
Go to http://english.ulsan.go.kr/Tour/List.php?l=Tour&m=Mountain and click on "Tourist Guide Map." You'll be able to locate these two areas by looking for Munsu Stadium, then looking to the left (and mountain-ward) to fing Ulju-gu sites. Look to the right of the stadium, and still towards the top (most mountainous) part of the page that is least populated and you'll locate sites in the overlapping part of Ulju and then Jung-gu monuments slightly below them).
GOOD LUCK AND ENJOY THE REST OF YOUR FIRST WEEKEND!
HIGHLIGHTS IF ULJU-GU
STUPA OF CHEONGSONGSA SITE
689-861) San 107-4, Gaegok-ri, Cheongnyang-myeon, Ulju-Gun,
These three bell-shaped stupas, discovered in the Cheongsongsa site, were stone-towers to hold ashes of famous monks.
The left stupa(3 meters high) comprises Jidaeseok, Gidaeseok, a pedestal with a design of lotus petals and Tapsin(a main body).
(689-861) San 342, Gaegok-ri, Cheongnyang-myeon, Ulju-Gu,
It is located in Ul-ri, Cheongrang-myun, Ulju-gun, named after the Munsu mountain
Munsusa temple was built by Jijangulsa, priest in the period of Queen Seoduk of 27th
of Silla.
PETROGLYPHS
of Cheon-jeonri & Petroglyphs of Bangudae,
(689-841) San 207-8, Gumi-ri, Dudong-myeon, Ulju-Gun,
The designs of circles, mud snails, deer, fish, birds, snakes, human faces, etc. seen on the upper part of the rock, are interpreted as the symbols for the rite for abundance of that time, being used from the New Stone Age to the Bronze Age. The pictures of cavalry parade, sailing boats, dragons, horses, deer, and more than 300 characters on the lower part of the rock were left by people of the Three Kingdoms period and the Unified Silla, which indicates that people of Silla regarded this place holy since the Three Kingdoms Period.
SOMETHING IN THE
(this is sort of smack, right in the middle of Jung-gu and Ulju-gu. While it is technically in Nam-gu, it is the countryside/mountain-side area of Nam-gu which makes it close to Ulju-gu and Jung-gu.)
(680-843) San 5, Ok-dong, Nam-Gu, Ulsan
Acclaimed as the gem of the international football world, the Ulsan Munsu Football Stadium is the most frequented venue by Ulsan residents and tourists because of its spectacular scenery. Mts. Munsuand. Namam, and a nearby lake serve as natural backdrop.
THE AREA OF JUNG - GU
RELICS OF PARK JESANG
(689-842) San 30-2, Manhwa-ri, Dudong-myeon, Ulju-Gun, Ulsan
(this is really closer to the other sites in Jung-gu even though technically in Ulju-Gu)
Mangbuseok is a rock which involves a legend of a woman, missing her long awaited husband, who died and turned into a stone while waiting for him. There are other places with similar legends, but this is the best known.
Park Jesang was a famous loyal official during the reign of King Nulji(417~458) of Silla.
TOMBS OF DAUN-DONG
(681-340) San 147, Daun-dong, Jung-Gu,
This a large tumuli was built over the Unified Silla Period from the Bronze Age. Located at the foot of a hill between the Taehwagang(
FOSSILIZED DINOSAURS FOOTPRINT OF YUGOK-DONG
(681-310) 54-1, Yugok-dong, Jung-Gu, Ulsan
The footprints here, precious resources of natural history, are those of large and medium sized dinosaurs of the Lower Cretaceous period, about 100 million years ago.
BAEKYANGSA TEMPLE
819, Seongan-dong, Jung-Gu, Ulsan (681-300)
Baekyangsa temple is the oldest temple of those built in the period of Silla kingdom…It was built by Baeyangsansa, monk, in order to pray defense of the fatherland
ULSAN HYANGGYO
(681-240) 171-1, Gyo-dong, Jung-Gu, Ulsan
Hyanggyo (Confucian Academy) is a local public educational institution of the Joseon period. The structure includes a Confucian shrine and a school building. In the Confucian shrine, there are Daeseongjeon and Dongseomu. Daeseongjeon was dedicated to Confucius (552-479 B.C) and the Four Chinese Saints, the Two Chinese Sages, and the Eighteen Korean Sages.
NO-CAR STREET
[not really “traditional” but in the Jung-gu area, and worth checking out]
(681-210) Seongnam-dong, Jung-Gu, Ulsan
No-car Street was built in June 1998 in the area along the Hyundai Department Store, Seongnam Branch, which is the busiest street in Ulsan, to the four-way junction in front of the old Munhwatang. It was built as a cultural and shopping space that is 315 meters long and 10 meters wide. It was completed after three years.
** These highlights are excerpts from ulsan.go.kr **
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Saturday, August 30 Welcome Dinner Social
So, here are the plans for Saturday!
For those of you who would like to spend time exploring
Saturday's daytime exploration has been organized around the theme of "Modern
Korea." I'll send another guide later tonight which will give you ideas about what to see on Sunday. Sunday is organized around the opposite theme of "Traditional
Korea." This email has the “Modern Korea” day highlights, and towards the end of the email you find the details of the Welcome Dinner Social I have organized. It will be at a great, local Korean restaurant Saturday night.
If you don’t want to spend the day exploring, that is okay. I’m just providing an opportunity for you to meet the other teachers and hang out for the day. It's a
pretty casual meet up. No obligation. Although, I know it will be a lot of fun for those who attend!
However, I’ve made dinner
plans for Saturday night though and I’d love for you all to be there. So, if you like, you can simply meet all of the teachers at 5.45pm for the Welcome Dinner Social (dinner
details at the end of this email).
Saturday MORNING, August 30
Meet your fellow
Pegasus Teachers under the FERRIS WHEEL inside the
benches there).
This is a casual meet up without any signs. So, hopefully you'll recognize each other from the flight or Facebook. But, you'll likely
be the only group of teachers hanging out under the Ferris Wheel, "waiting."
Address : (680-815) 1480-1,
The best way to get here is by taxi. It shouldn’t be more then about $5 from where most of you are located and you can share with others in your area.
You start your day's explorations here because this department store calls itself the "best and
the biggest department store in
"Ferris Wheel that allows you to catch the
store, and shopping culture in
keep you busy for the afternoon. So, you will easily be able to spend a lot of time here! (Many of the banks are in this area too, if you happen to have any
banking inquiries, you can pop into one of them).
When you are ready to move on, you can check out the following other department stores and shopping
experiences in the same area. And don’t worry, you don’t need to plan on spending any money either. These shopping institutions are simply great
spectacles to behold!!
E-Mart
Address : (680-815) 1646 Samsan-dong,
This has no connection to Wal-Mart. This is an electronic-mart and it is like nothing you have experienced before. It's like a
mega IKEA of Electronics!! This "mall" (it's not a mall according to
of our department stores on steroids) is massive. It includes more electronics than you can imagine!! In addition to electronics, the
place includes: food/beverages, services, fashion, toys, a bea
uty salon, pet shop, pharmacy, travel agency, and an automobile repair shop...
Hyundai Department Store
Address : 1521-1,
It's not just a car anymore.
It's a whole shopping experience. In addition to a shopping mecca, this 13 story department store is the full meal deal -- it has a McDonalds within it.
Saturday EVENING, August 30, 5.45pm
Meet back under the FERRIS WHEEL in the
Anyone who wasn’t wandering the town with the group during the day can catch up with the
group again here.
Ann Katherine Sterrett
(a Pegasus Teacher who has been in
will get you directed to the restaurant.
You’ll all share taxis to the restaurant, at the cost of about 50cents-$1 a person, as the restaurant is not far. Ann will get you all directed there though. (But write the address down too, so that you call also show it to your taxi driver).
THE RESTAURANT:
Hamyangjip (Hamyang House).
Location : 579-4 Sinjeong3-dong, Nam-gu,
Reservations have been made for about 25 teachers for 6.00pm.
(To help locate it, it is also less than 100 meters from a “White Castle Motel” that looks like a funny Disney-ish castle hotel and there is also a Japanese restaurant, “Mancheong Japanese Food,” close-by on the corner of the block).
Why I’ve picked this restaurant:
It is THE OLDEST TRADITIONAL BIBIMBAP RESTAURANT IN ULSAN.
It’s been operating for 80 years, and its signature dish is the owner’s very traditional and delicious “bibimbap” Korean dish. Everyone should try it once, and it’s a great intro to Korean cuisine. AND what better place to try it than the establishment that is famous for it? It’s a small little restaurant and seats only about 50 people. I’ve reserved half the restaurant for you teachers! (By the way, seating is traditional style, on the floor…)
What is bibimbap? It is served as a bowl of warm white rice topped with namul (sautéed and seasoned vegetables) and gochujang (chili pepper paste). You can eat it without adding the gochujang if you don’t like spice. A raw or fried egg and sliced meat (usually beef) are common additions. The ingredients are stirred together thoroughly just before eating. It can be sometimes served cold and sometimes hot.These the two types. (It is also served with everything on top, and then you stir it before eating. If there is an ingredient you do not fancy, just pick it out before stirring it all together.)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bibimbap
Bulgogi (BBQ) is also a highly recommended dish and may be a good choice for the less adventurous.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bulgogi
There should also be a few other menu options, and the menu will likely be at least partly/mostly translated into English.
If you’d like to try the local beverage of choice, ask for SOJU.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soju
Here’s a snapshot of the menu:
Cheoyong Bibimbap: 5,000 Won
Traditional Style Bibimbap: 6,000 Won
Gomtang (a thick broth) made with Korean Beef : 5,000 Won
Hanwoo Seoksoe Bulgogi (Korean Beef Bulgogi grilled on a gridiron) : 18,000 Won (likely enough to share)
Joseonpa Pajeong (Fried mixture of flour and Korean onion): 8,000 Won
The restaurant closes at 10.00pm, and it IS acceptable in Korea to hang around eating and drinking for hours. When you are done eating and drinking, if you so choose, you can head out to check out the local night scene. Ann knows many of the local night spots. There’s a lot of nightlife in Samsandong (the same area as the Lotte Dept Store) or in surrounding areas. Ann will give you a ton of ideas if you’re up for continuing the day’s adventures on into the night!
Have fun! And just promise to post photos!!
Also, email me if you plan on going to the dinner, as it will allow me to tell Ann how many people to expect to be waiting for at Lotte. I’ve made reservations for 25. I’d LOVE it if everyone attended, of course!!
By the way, a photo of Ann is attached so you know who to look for at the Ferris Wheel Sat at 5.45! J
Orientation etc
Here's what happened with orientation...
It is NOW confirmed. In Sept. The cancellation was not indeed a cancellation at all, and this was a miscommunication from the MOE rep who spoke to you. Further details to follow asap as I get them from the MOE. I promise. As soon as I know them, you will know them. Hang in there... Once you know the orientation dates, you will feel much more settled and comfortable with your new teaching responsibilities. I know. So, have patience and I will get them to you just as soon as I know them! It's important to us that you feel settled! Stay tuned! I won't leave you hanging.
Your teaching expectations now that you are all arriving at your schools...
I've been assured that your assigned co-teachers are to help you out for the first couple weeks with lesson ideas and preparation. So, you are not on your own! They are the ones with experience. Ask them many questions. Let them take the lead. While they are co-teachers, they can take most of the load in the beginning, and you should be able to watch and learn. If you have problems with your co-teacher, let us know. Also, Scott Kim, in Korea, is more than happy to help you with any concerns that may come up with the placement. He's also in your time zone. So, he will quickly and easily be able to get back to you. He's asked me to ensure that you have his email address and do feel free to send him your questions.(cc me though too, and we'll both work together to get your needs met)...
WELCOME PARTY THIS WEEKEND
Also, I am looking at getting a Pegasus Teacher social gathering happening this weekend.
I'll let you know asap about this too. It will be a great way to mingle and unwind after your intense week of leaving/arrival.
It is NOW confirmed. In Sept. The cancellation was not indeed a cancellation at all, and this was a miscommunication from the MOE rep who spoke to you. Further details to follow asap as I get them from the MOE. I promise. As soon as I know them, you will know them. Hang in there... Once you know the orientation dates, you will feel much more settled and comfortable with your new teaching responsibilities. I know. So, have patience and I will get them to you just as soon as I know them! It's important to us that you feel settled! Stay tuned! I won't leave you hanging.
Your teaching expectations now that you are all arriving at your schools...
I've been assured that your assigned co-teachers are to help you out for the first couple weeks with lesson ideas and preparation. So, you are not on your own! They are the ones with experience. Ask them many questions. Let them take the lead. While they are co-teachers, they can take most of the load in the beginning, and you should be able to watch and learn. If you have problems with your co-teacher, let us know. Also, Scott Kim, in Korea, is more than happy to help you with any concerns that may come up with the placement. He's also in your time zone. So, he will quickly and easily be able to get back to you. He's asked me to ensure that you have his email address and do feel free to send him your questions.(cc me though too, and we'll both work together to get your needs met)...
WELCOME PARTY THIS WEEKEND
Also, I am looking at getting a Pegasus Teacher social gathering happening this weekend.
I'll let you know asap about this too. It will be a great way to mingle and unwind after your intense week of leaving/arrival.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Some Korea Inspiration for your Arrival
TOP TEN THINGS YOU'LL LOVE ABOUT TEACHING ENGLISH IN KOREA
10. 24 hour food/take-out services.
Got hunger? Get take-out. Anytime, anywhere. Many Korean establishments operate around the clock and they almost always offer delivery. An easy phone call and TADA! A few minutes later, a little man on a scooter will arrive at your doorstep offering almost anything your grumbling stomach may have desired. (You may want to brush up on a few ordering phrases though to ensure you get what you want. You’ll likely have to order in Korean.) You can also find a plethora of cool snacks and drinks in vending machines around the city or in the ubiquitous 24 hour convenience stores such as LG. I fell in love with Lotte’s vending machine canned coffee drinks!
9. Bluntness is a-okay when talking to Koreans.
Single and looking? There’s no tip-toeing around the subject of age and relationship status here. If you’re single, and happen to have your eye on a Korean, your can acceptably ask them, point blank -- “how old are you? Are you single?” Koreans don’t like guessing games. So ask away! They’ll answer. Also, be prepared to be asked. All Koreans will be curious about your age and status, even if they have no interest in dating you. It's about as commonly asked as "how are you?"
8. Korean dramas/soaps.
You don’t need to know much of the language to get in on the fun. Oh, the facial expressions… and the tears!! They say it all!! You may be tuning in every night, and even Youtubing for more!
7. Trust.
Koreans are very trusting people in public places, and can also be trusted. At Starbucks, you’ll notice people leave things on the table, without worry, while they go outside to smoke, leave for the bathroom, etc. The best part is that I’ve never heard of anything going missing either.
6. “Konglish”
Konglish is how Koreans speak English words. It’s derived from their adoption of some English into their language. However, the pronunciation carries over into how they speak English. At first it might be confusing listening to Koreans speak English, but you’ll quickly get the hang of it. It can actually be a lot of fun translating English words to Korean sounds to understand what Koreans are saying to you, and to communicate back to them (or, as a teacher, to correct them back into actual English). In Konglish, Fs are pronounced p or h, Vs are pronounced b and Rs are pronounced l.
5. Technology.
You’ll be the envy of all your friends when you brag about the cool cell phone you have in
4. The food.
If you like spicy, spicy food, you’ll love Korean food, that is. I do, so I was in heaven. Ko-chue-jung (HOT chile paste) can be added to almost any dish. Kim chi is also great for people who love spicy foods, although as it is also a cabbage side-dish, it is certainly an acquired taste. There are also many great foods for those averse to spice. Korean BBQ cannot be missed. Ask a Korean where the best Korean BBQ restaurant is and try it out!
3. Side-dishes.
Oh, the side dish selection when you eat out in
2. You’ll be bowed to frequently.
No, you may not be royalty, but you will be bowed to… Bowing is a gesture of respect, and you’ll notice all Koreans giving a little bow of the head as they say hello, thank you, goodbye, among other expressions. It is a culture thing. It has nothing to do with your Rockstar status as a foreigner. (If you would like to be polite, and show respect back, return a little bow of your head.)
1. Your Rockstar Status at Home.
You’ll be the envy of all of your friends when they hear about the grand life you are living, not to mention your AMAZINGLY cool gadgets. They don’t need to know how cheaply you are able to live this Rockstar life! They’ll hear about the fabulous time your are having, the money you are saving/spending, your cool gadgets, your many travels, and no one will look at you the same again. Forget
Monday, August 25, 2008
Korean internet access when you get there
Some of you have expressed concern over getting on to the internet right away in Korea. While you are waiting to get your apartment's internet set up, never fear!! You will be able to email family right away and really easily!
PC bongs are everywhere! What, you ask, are they? Well, internet cafes, of course! PC, is of course referring to computers, and bong is the Korean word for room!! (For example: Noree bong is singing room, Korean karaoke).So, just look for a PC bong, and you'll be away to the internet/email/Facebook races!! These PC bongs are located everywhere -- literally on every corner, in every neighborhood, you'll find one. They have high speed internet and are cheap -- about $1 per hour usually! Around you, you'll find instant noodle eating Korean youth logged into gaming sites outnumbering foreigners logged into Facebook but Koreans are used to English teachers using them as internet cafes. These rooms have sprung up as a way to relieve the stresses of Korean youth, who when at home are encouraged to study not play. So, they escape to a PC bong for their pleasure. Most PC bongs are 24 hours as some youth game all through the night! You will also find an occasional cafe that has internet too, which will be more like a North American internet cafe -- where you can either use a computer there or log into a wifi network. So, no matter what, you'll definitely be covered until you get your own at home internet!!You should also have a computer room in your school which you will be able to use during breaks.
Hope this helps you!
PS -- if you are ever looking for something, like a PC bong, and can't find it, just say this to a Korean -- "PC bong, ody -- ee -- soy - yo?" What you have just said is, "Where is the PC room?" They should point you in the right direction! "Ody-ee-soy-yo?" is a very good phrase to know!! "Ody" is the main word in this phrase. It means "where." Sometimes Koreans shorten the phrase to just "Ody?"... If you hear it, they are not calling a dog! They are asking "where?"... Also, "Ody-ga?" is also a short form for asking, where are you going?
Hope you enjoyed this mini Korean lesson! Once you get into it, the language can be really fun to learn!!
PC bongs are everywhere! What, you ask, are they? Well, internet cafes, of course! PC, is of course referring to computers, and bong is the Korean word for room!! (For example: Noree bong is singing room, Korean karaoke).So, just look for a PC bong, and you'll be away to the internet/email/Facebook races!! These PC bongs are located everywhere -- literally on every corner, in every neighborhood, you'll find one. They have high speed internet and are cheap -- about $1 per hour usually! Around you, you'll find instant noodle eating Korean youth logged into gaming sites outnumbering foreigners logged into Facebook but Koreans are used to English teachers using them as internet cafes. These rooms have sprung up as a way to relieve the stresses of Korean youth, who when at home are encouraged to study not play. So, they escape to a PC bong for their pleasure. Most PC bongs are 24 hours as some youth game all through the night! You will also find an occasional cafe that has internet too, which will be more like a North American internet cafe -- where you can either use a computer there or log into a wifi network. So, no matter what, you'll definitely be covered until you get your own at home internet!!You should also have a computer room in your school which you will be able to use during breaks.
Hope this helps you!
PS -- if you are ever looking for something, like a PC bong, and can't find it, just say this to a Korean -- "PC bong, ody -- ee -- soy - yo?" What you have just said is, "Where is the PC room?" They should point you in the right direction! "Ody-ee-soy-yo?" is a very good phrase to know!! "Ody" is the main word in this phrase. It means "where." Sometimes Koreans shorten the phrase to just "Ody?"... If you hear it, they are not calling a dog! They are asking "where?"... Also, "Ody-ga?" is also a short form for asking, where are you going?
Hope you enjoyed this mini Korean lesson! Once you get into it, the language can be really fun to learn!!
Congrats Pegasus Program (Ulsan) Teachers! You've made it!
Okay. A HUGE congratulations is in order! Here's a virtual high five for you!!. Okay, that may have been cheesy. But seriously...YOU'VE MADE IT! You've pulled it all together. You may have had your moments when you doubted it would all work out, moments when your patience was tested... but it has all worked out! You have your contract, you've got your entry visa, your flight is booked, your bags are packed, and now? Now you just need to get thee to the airport! Now is the really easy part. So, take a deep breath, and just think about the incredible journey you have created for yourself, and the incredible year you are about to have!
Nerves may be kicking in right about now. Until now, you've been running on adrenalin, getting everything together. But, now you can feel the nerves. Don't worry, it's all part of the process. And once you get to the airport, you'll be running on adrenalin again. Trust me. These are exciting times! For many of you, it will be the first time you have travelled so far from home. Friends and family will surely be missed. But that's what internet, email and Skype are for, right? And maybe you can encourage them to come visit!
So, how can I speak so confidently about how easy it is to leave everything behind? Well, as you know, at Pegasus we've all been in your shoes. We've all taught in Korea. What you may not know though is that for me (Tracy), specifically, Korea was not only my first time traveling internationally alone, it was my very first international experience, period. I had never been outside of North America at all. And this may be the case for many of you. Basically, I had been so focussed on university, and working during my summers, that I never really had a chance to get away. All I really knew was Canada and the US... Then came Korea...
Nerves may be kicking in right about now. Until now, you've been running on adrenalin, getting everything together. But, now you can feel the nerves. Don't worry, it's all part of the process. And once you get to the airport, you'll be running on adrenalin again. Trust me. These are exciting times! For many of you, it will be the first time you have travelled so far from home. Friends and family will surely be missed. But that's what internet, email and Skype are for, right? And maybe you can encourage them to come visit!
So, how can I speak so confidently about how easy it is to leave everything behind? Well, as you know, at Pegasus we've all been in your shoes. We've all taught in Korea. What you may not know though is that for me (Tracy), specifically, Korea was not only my first time traveling internationally alone, it was my very first international experience, period. I had never been outside of North America at all. And this may be the case for many of you. Basically, I had been so focussed on university, and working during my summers, that I never really had a chance to get away. All I really knew was Canada and the US... Then came Korea...
Korea will be an amazing experience. For me, it was an amazing experience that lead to many more amazing experiences. In Korea, you will be exposed to an entirely new culture and way of life. Although it is also a very modern society. You will have many of the conveniences that have become a part of your everyday life -- like computers, cell phones, and high speed internet. Even with these constants though, everyday life will be slightly different. So, the most important thing is that you maintain an open mind.
The people that have the best experiences in Korea are the ones who keep an open mind about what they are seeing and experiencing. You will learn a lot about yourself and the world around you. While some things are different, so many simple things -- like human kindness -- are the same the world around. And if you are like me, you will be inspired to do more travelling. Since leaving Korea, I have traveled through more than 25 countries, and I'm nowhere near done yet. Experiencing new cultures is one of my greatest joys. During school holidays in Korea, I traveled around Korea (you must visit Jeju island -- we'll help organize a Pegasus trip there) and around Asia. I had traveled around Thailand, had been to Beijing and the Great Wall of China, and had seen most corners of Korea! Then, with the money I was still able to save teaching in Korea, I purchased an around the world (RTW) ticket when I left Korea, rather than flying home. You might want to do the same at the end of your contract! I travelled through parts of Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia, and Europe, all on one ticket, for about $2500 (2,500,000 won). Teaching in Korea is not the only part of the experience that will be great for your resume. In fact, many employers highly value travel on a resume. So, when the travel bug bites and your start planning all those trips, just tell people you are "resume building"!
After you've arrived in Korea, check the blog on Thursday (28th) for the Letterman inspired "TOP 10 REASONS YOU'LL LOVE TEACHING IN KOREA!" I've saved putting them up until now. I decided it would be something neat for you to read once you are in Korea, as a bit more of it will make sense then.
The people that have the best experiences in Korea are the ones who keep an open mind about what they are seeing and experiencing. You will learn a lot about yourself and the world around you. While some things are different, so many simple things -- like human kindness -- are the same the world around. And if you are like me, you will be inspired to do more travelling. Since leaving Korea, I have traveled through more than 25 countries, and I'm nowhere near done yet. Experiencing new cultures is one of my greatest joys. During school holidays in Korea, I traveled around Korea (you must visit Jeju island -- we'll help organize a Pegasus trip there) and around Asia. I had traveled around Thailand, had been to Beijing and the Great Wall of China, and had seen most corners of Korea! Then, with the money I was still able to save teaching in Korea, I purchased an around the world (RTW) ticket when I left Korea, rather than flying home. You might want to do the same at the end of your contract! I travelled through parts of Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia, and Europe, all on one ticket, for about $2500 (2,500,000 won). Teaching in Korea is not the only part of the experience that will be great for your resume. In fact, many employers highly value travel on a resume. So, when the travel bug bites and your start planning all those trips, just tell people you are "resume building"!
After you've arrived in Korea, check the blog on Thursday (28th) for the Letterman inspired "TOP 10 REASONS YOU'LL LOVE TEACHING IN KOREA!" I've saved putting them up until now. I decided it would be something neat for you to read once you are in Korea, as a bit more of it will make sense then.
Okay, now I'll just cut to the important reminders...
If you are on the Pegasus Flight through Tokyo, remember the rendez-vous details. I still haven't had any volunteers for putting a sign up. So, hopefully someone will print or write a sign! I want you all to find each other! The details have been posted here: http://pegasusconnection.blogspot.com/2008/08/tokyo-airport-rendez-vous-430pm-august.html
For ALL of you, general arrival details in Pusan are posted here. This info applies to anyone arriving any time of the day on the 27th: http://pegasusconnection.blogspot.com/2008/08/pusan-aug-27th-arrival-info.html
(If you are arriving after the 27th, make direct arrangements with Guy/Scott to ensure someone is there to meet you).
Here's the 10 day weather forecast for Ulsan. It looks like it will still be around 70F/20C at night, when most of you arrive, so dress accordingly for your arrival. [Also, just a friendly reminder that deodorant -- at least the kind your are probably used to, is hard to find cheaply in Korea... So, especially with these temperatures, you may want to stock up!]
The daytime high is around 80-82F (28C) most days right now. It seems to have just cooled down a tad after a month averaging highs of 90F/32C. http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/tenday/KSXX0029?from=36hr_fcst10DayLink_business
Finally, remember to have pertinent docs with you on the flight.
Please ensure that you have any and all original documents that you have yet to submit to the
Also, in order to facilitate the reimbursement of your airfare, make sure you hold on to: your ticket receipt, boarding pass, and ticket or e-ticket. And, of course, don’t forget your passport!
Ok, that's it...
Have a safe flight, and don't forget to send us a message when you have arrived. We want to hear from you!
Have a safe flight, and don't forget to send us a message when you have arrived. We want to hear from you!
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Pusan Aug 27th Arrival info
You may have already gotten an email about this...but here it is again to ensure everyone gets it! If you will be arriving after 27th, due to visa concerns, not a problem... just let Guy know so that he can make arrangements!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Scott Kim will be at the airport on August 27th to meet you all and ensure that everyone has arrived safely.
There is a designated spot for all teachers to meet. A prominent sign will indicate this spot. If you cannot find it, please follow these instructions:
*** Meeting Point- The Meeting Point is on the first floor of the domestic terminal of the Gimhae Airport – if you are arriving on an international flight (i.e. from Tokyo or Beijing), you will need to go to the domestic terminal it is a short walk (3-5 minutes) and there are baggage carts available to move your luggage. At the center of the terminal there are long benches (chairs) in front of the information desk. The Gimhae airport is a pretty small airport, so you can’t miss the meeting point.
*** Scott’s Cell Phone - Scott Kim will be at the airport to meet you. Please call his cell phone number, 017-252-4595 if you have any problems. Also, Ms. Mallay Oh, the supervisor at the Ulsan MOE, will be at the airport. If you are unable to get a hold of Scott, her cell phone number is 011-592-3415.
***Arrival Procedure - You will meet Ms. Mallay Oh, the supervisor of the Ulsan MOE, at the Meeting Point – you must check in with Ms. Mallay Oh. She will call your co-teachers to prepare them to pick you up when you arrive in Ulsan via the airport bus. The tickets for the bus will be purchased by Ms. Mallay Oh. She will instruct you where to catch the bus. Your co-teachers will be waiting for you in Ulsan to pick you up and take you to either your school or your accommodations, depending on what time you arrive. Those of you arriving in Pusan at 8.45pm on the NW will likely all be on the same bus to Ulsan!! :) And your co-teachers will be taking you to your new accommodations when you arrive in Ulsan.
Website for the Gimhae airport - http://gimhae.airport.co.kr/eng/index.jsp
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Scott Kim will be at the airport on August 27th to meet you all and ensure that everyone has arrived safely.
There is a designated spot for all teachers to meet. A prominent sign will indicate this spot. If you cannot find it, please follow these instructions:
*** Meeting Point- The Meeting Point is on the first floor of the domestic terminal of the Gimhae Airport – if you are arriving on an international flight (i.e. from Tokyo or Beijing), you will need to go to the domestic terminal it is a short walk (3-5 minutes) and there are baggage carts available to move your luggage. At the center of the terminal there are long benches (chairs) in front of the information desk. The Gimhae airport is a pretty small airport, so you can’t miss the meeting point.
*** Scott’s Cell Phone - Scott Kim will be at the airport to meet you. Please call his cell phone number, 017-252-4595 if you have any problems. Also, Ms. Mallay Oh, the supervisor at the Ulsan MOE, will be at the airport. If you are unable to get a hold of Scott, her cell phone number is 011-592-3415.
***Arrival Procedure - You will meet Ms. Mallay Oh, the supervisor of the Ulsan MOE, at the Meeting Point – you must check in with Ms. Mallay Oh. She will call your co-teachers to prepare them to pick you up when you arrive in Ulsan via the airport bus. The tickets for the bus will be purchased by Ms. Mallay Oh. She will instruct you where to catch the bus. Your co-teachers will be waiting for you in Ulsan to pick you up and take you to either your school or your accommodations, depending on what time you arrive. Those of you arriving in Pusan at 8.45pm on the NW will likely all be on the same bus to Ulsan!! :) And your co-teachers will be taking you to your new accommodations when you arrive in Ulsan.
Website for the Gimhae airport - http://gimhae.airport.co.k
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Tokyo airport rendez-vous, 4.30pm August 27
Okay, so...here is the rendez-vous point in Tokyo for teachers leaving on Tokyo-Pusan NW flight @6.20pm, August 27:
[anyone else connecting through Tokyo airport at this time is welcome to pop by too]
4.30pm at CafeLeo 5 in Terminal 1 of Tokyo Narita Airport.
It's AFTER the passport control. But you should be arriving to Terminal 1 from your international flight already anyway.
http://www.narita-airport.jp/en/guide/rest_shop/rest/floor_list/shop_page/t1_4_41_cafe5.html
If your flight doesn't arrive until after 4.30, that is ok too. Some of the teachers will be arriving in Tokyo as early as 3pm. At least one teacher will be at the table (with the sign on it) still when you get there! And hopefully everyone will be at the table by 5.30 so that you can meet each other before all heading to your boarding gate! If nothing else, just pass by this cafe on the way to your boarding gate to see if any teachers are hanging out there. If you are pressed for time, just head to the gate. All teachers will be at the NW boarding gate by 5.50pm. (Can someone volunteer to hold up a sign there for Pegasus stragglers?)
There are a ton of tables at the cafe, so you should be able to pull together tables, and pull up chairs! It would be cool if someone could volunteer to arrive there right away at 4.30, and have a sign to place/tape on the table so that everyone can be sure it is the right group when they get there. :) Any volunteers?
We hope you are getting exciting about your upcoming departure! We sure are!
[anyone else connecting through Tokyo airport at this time is welcome to pop by too]
4.30pm at CafeLeo 5 in Terminal 1 of Tokyo Narita Airport.
It's AFTER the passport control. But you should be arriving to Terminal 1 from your international flight already anyway.
http://www.narita-airport.
If your flight doesn't arrive until after 4.30, that is ok too. Some of the teachers will be arriving in Tokyo as early as 3pm. At least one teacher will be at the table (with the sign on it) still when you get there! And hopefully everyone will be at the table by 5.30 so that you can meet each other before all heading to your boarding gate! If nothing else, just pass by this cafe on the way to your boarding gate to see if any teachers are hanging out there. If you are pressed for time, just head to the gate. All teachers will be at the NW boarding gate by 5.50pm. (Can someone volunteer to hold up a sign there for Pegasus stragglers?)
There are a ton of tables at the cafe, so you should be able to pull together tables, and pull up chairs! It would be cool if someone could volunteer to arrive there right away at 4.30, and have a sign to place/tape on the table so that everyone can be sure it is the right group when they get there. :) Any volunteers?
We hope you are getting exciting about your upcoming departure! We sure are!
Friday, August 15, 2008
optional Ulsan after school teaching (if you want to make even more money)
We have just been made aware of some great optional programs offered and run by the Ulsan Metropolitan Office of Education:
The Sarangbang English Program
* in-school, evening classes; three times a week from 6:00-8:00pm
* 12 students per class
* co-teaching with Korean English teacher
* total of 24 hours a month at 30,000won/hour = 720,000won extra
Camp Program
* offered during the summer semester break
* you can earn about 1,800,000won extra
* a great way to get some extra money before you take your paid vacation time!
Both of these programs have a high participation rate among current English teachers with the Ulsan MOE with great reviews all around. They are excellent ways to legally increase your pay and boost your teaching experience in a well-establish, government-run program.
You are not required to participate in either of these programs, but the opportunities are there should you wish to. The details of how to sign up will be made known to you after you have arrived in Ulsan.
If you have any questions, please contact Guy Duke - guy@footprintsrecruiting.com
The Sarangbang English Program
* in-school, evening classes; three times a week from 6:00-8:00pm
* 12 students per class
* co-teaching with Korean English teacher
* total of 24 hours a month at 30,000won/hour = 720,000won extra
Camp Program
* offered during the summer semester break
* you can earn about 1,800,000won extra
* a great way to get some extra money before you take your paid vacation time!
Both of these programs have a high participation rate among current English teachers with the Ulsan MOE with great reviews all around. They are excellent ways to legally increase your pay and boost your teaching experience in a well-establish, government-run program.
You are not required to participate in either of these programs, but the opportunities are there should you wish to. The details of how to sign up will be made known to you after you have arrived in Ulsan.
If you have any questions, please contact Guy Duke - guy@footprintsrecruiting.com
Some of your PEGASUS PROGRAM questions answered:
TOKYO RENDEZ-VOUS POINT:
For those of you on the same flight from Tokyo to Ulsan, arriving at 8pm, we will be organizing a rendezvous for you all before boarding your new flight in Tokyo, so that you can meet and mingle. We'll let you know the details asap! Keep checking here and on the Facebook group!
PLACEMENT:
It looks like most of the schools are elementary schools with a few middle schools thrown in as well. Other than that, we don't have any information about the age of the students or the specific schools/apartment locations. That will all be disclosed at orientation.
AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION:
Scott Kim, Footprints Korean Office Manager in Daegu, is organizing the pick-up from the airport. Once you have booked your flight, Tamra will let us know your itin and we will forward it to Scott. However, if you have for some reason booked through somewhere other than Tamra, PLEASE SEND US YOUR ITIN DETAILS (canyouteach@gmail.com) so that we can ensure that you will be picked up at the airport!
DRESS CODE:
we generally recommend "smart casual" (i.e. khakis/slacks with a collared shirt/blouse). They don't need business attire, but also shouldn't be in jeans and a t-shirt. In general, bright/unnatural hair colours are frowned upon as are facial piercings, but as long as it is tasteful (small nose/eyebrow ring) or easily hidden (tongue ring) then there won't be a problem. Tattoos should be covered up, though.
For those of you on the same flight from Tokyo to Ulsan, arriving at 8pm, we will be organizing a rendezvous for you all before boarding your new flight in Tokyo, so that you can meet and mingle. We'll let you know the details asap! Keep checking here and on the Facebook group!
PLACEMENT:
It looks like most of the schools are elementary schools with a few middle schools thrown in as well. Other than that, we don't have any information about the age of the students or the specific schools/apartment locations. That will all be disclosed at orientation.
AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION:
Scott Kim, Footprints Korean Office Manager in Daegu, is organizing the pick-up from the airport. Once you have booked your flight, Tamra will let us know your itin and we will forward it to Scott. However, if you have for some reason booked through somewhere other than Tamra, PLEASE SEND US YOUR ITIN DETAILS (canyouteach@gmail.com) so that we can ensure that you will be picked up at the airport!
DRESS CODE:
we generally recommend "smart casual" (i.e. khakis/slacks with a collared shirt/blouse). They don't need business attire, but also shouldn't be in jeans and a t-shirt. In general, bright/unnatural hair colours are frowned upon as are facial piercings, but as long as it is tasteful (small nose/eyebrow ring) or easily hidden (tongue ring) then there won't be a problem. Tattoos should be covered up, though.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Countdown to Ulsan has begun!!
As you countdown to your arrival in Ulsan on August 27th, the Pegasus Team has brainstormed a list of cool things to look forward to in Korea! Not that you need another reason to get excited...but...
Watch this blog over the next few days as we post the TOP 10 coolest things about living/teaching in Korea! One will be popping up almost everyday until the 25th!
Watch this blog over the next few days as we post the TOP 10 coolest things about living/teaching in Korea! One will be popping up almost everyday until the 25th!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Exciting flight news!!
We're very excited to see you finalizing your flights to Pusan. It means you are THAT MUCH CLOSER to your adventures in Korea!
We are also very excited to see that many of you will be on the SAME FLIGHT. If you are arrving into Pusan at 8.45pm on August 27th, on the Northwestern flight that connects through Tokyo, then you are on the flight with numerous other teachers!! Many of you will also have a layover in Tokyo before that last leg of the flight. A great opportunity for you to meet and mingle with your fellow Pegasus Teachers!
We are SOOO excited for you all!
**Also, Tamra at Flight Centre wanted to pass on her new number. It will always connect you directly to her, as the other number sometimes routes through Toronto. Call Tamra at 1-866-420-4410 to book your flights.
We are also very excited to see that many of you will be on the SAME FLIGHT. If you are arrving into Pusan at 8.45pm on August 27th, on the Northwestern flight that connects through Tokyo, then you are on the flight with numerous other teachers!! Many of you will also have a layover in Tokyo before that last leg of the flight. A great opportunity for you to meet and mingle with your fellow Pegasus Teachers!
We are SOOO excited for you all!
**Also, Tamra at Flight Centre wanted to pass on her new number. It will always connect you directly to her, as the other number sometimes routes through Toronto. Call Tamra at 1-866-420-4410 to book your flights.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Ulsan Flights!
We will be organizing flights through Flight Centre, and working to keep the costs down on your flight. In most cases, the flights are right around $1000, but depending on where you are flying from, it could be as high as $1300. It really depends. However, to get the $1000 reimbursed, it is important that you let us arrange the flight booking and then forward you the details to confirm and pay. This is important for record keeping purposes for the Korean Ministry and we also have a special arrangement with Flight Centre that will get you the best prices on flights. The Korean Ministry has strict and finicky regulations about reimbursement, as the flight has to have a specific path (ie -- stopover in Japan or direct to Pusan) in order for the max amount to be refunded. So, it is really important that you let us get the flights organized. We want you to get your money back!
When possible, we will try to get more than one Pegasus Teacher on the same flight, when teachers are leaving from the same gateway. We want you to make friends so that you can share this exciting experience!
We also recommend that you do not get a roundtrip ticket so that you can capitalize on the contract-end bonuses. So, the flights we are organizing are one-way.
To help get things moving, please email Tracy (see email below) with the location from which you will be leaving for Korea. Also, specify whether you want to be leaving early. Otherwise, we will be coordinating for your arrival on August 27th, when the majority of the Ministry teachers will be arriving in Korea and beginning training. (There will be buses waiting for all you eager teachers at the airport). If you plan to arrive early, you will be responsible for your accommodation until the 27th, and we will have to make special transportation arrangements for you on the 27th.
Questions about flights? Email Tracy, Pegasus Communications Coordinator -- canyouteach@gmail.com
When possible, we will try to get more than one Pegasus Teacher on the same flight, when teachers are leaving from the same gateway. We want you to make friends so that you can share this exciting experience!
We also recommend that you do not get a roundtrip ticket so that you can capitalize on the contract-end bonuses. So, the flights we are organizing are one-way.
To help get things moving, please email Tracy (see email below) with the location from which you will be leaving for Korea. Also, specify whether you want to be leaving early. Otherwise, we will be coordinating for your arrival on August 27th, when the majority of the Ministry teachers will be arriving in Korea and beginning training. (There will be buses waiting for all you eager teachers at the airport). If you plan to arrive early, you will be responsible for your accommodation until the 27th, and we will have to make special transportation arrangements for you on the 27th.
Questions about flights? Email Tracy, Pegasus Communications Coordinator -- canyouteach@gmail.com
Monday, July 14, 2008
Reassurance and questions about Korea answered
1. As I have been discussing this opportunity with family members and friends, one of the main concerns/questions they have is, will I be safe? Is the area/school I will be teaching in safe? I know danger exists everywhere, but I am looking for some reassurance in regards to quality of life in Ulsan. Will my apartment be located in a safe part of the city? How are foreigners regarded by locals? How well are foreigners received? What dangers, if any do you expect I may encounter, or what dangers exist that I should be aware of?
Safety is truly the least of your concerns while in Korea. I can understand where you are coming from with this concern. When I first went to Korea, none of my family and friends knew much about Korea -- nor did I really. It's one of those places that seems to go unregistered on any radars. Everyone hears about Japan, China, Thailand and other such places, but hears little about Korea. So, I was really stepping into the unknown. The good news for you, though, is that at Pegasus we have all been there, done that, and got the t-shirt. :)
So, we can help you understand what you are getting into... and rest assured, you really do not have to worry.
The fact is that you could hardly be choosing to go to a safer country. I say this now having traveled around the world since living in Korea, and I definitely know what it is like to feel unsafe. Korea is far safer than anywhere else you could possibly work as an English teacher. It is safer than working anywhere in Central or South America, safer than anywhere in Europe, and it is by far the safest place to teach in Asia. I have been to many international cities and wandered through some very shady areas, let me tell you. I have been to Bangkok, and other parts of Thailand, where you have to watch your bag from being snatched right off of your back, or where you can't trust most taxi drivers as they might take you for a ride somewhere to get you to buy into some scam. I've been to Beijing, where in certain heavily touristed areas the street children may swarm foreigners, grabbing onto their legs with their very filthy hands, until they are thrown some money. I've been to Hong Kong where in certain areas you cannot avoid the shady salesman always trying to drag you into their stores, to sell you some overpriced electronics. I have been followed through the streets of Cairo, having to fake calling the police to be left alone. I lived for a while in East London, where I ran home from the subway everyday as I felt so unnerved walking those streets, even in daylight. So, I definitely know how it feels to be in various types of danger. Yet, in all of my months in Korea, I never once felt threatened on any level. As far as the threat spectrum is concerned, Korea doesn't even register on it. It is a very law abiding society and I never heard of any real threats to foreigners. There are no areas that I would have felt unsafe walking around, even in the middle of the night. At first, this amazed me, as there are many places in Canada where I would definitely not walk at night. However, it is absolutely true that I would walk anywhere in Korea. It is a bit hard to describe, especially coming from North America, where cities do definitely have areas both good and bad. In fact, most cities in the world have bad areas, it would seem. Yet, truly, Korea is a rare gem of a place in that it really has no such areas. Everywhere is the same. Everywhere is safe. Once you get there, you will know exactly what we mean by this. It is a strange feeling to describe. In fact, the only other place I felt as safe was when I was in Singapore, as it too is a very law-abiding, respectful society.
I should mention that there are, indeed, a few slightly poorer areas, but they are not the same as poor areas in North America or in any other place for that matter. These areas are generally on the outskirts of the towns, more than in the centre. You will definitely not be living in these areas, as these small areas do not have apartments, which is the standard teacher accommodation. In the main parts of the cities, it is all big, tall, concrete apartment buildings everywhere, and this is where you will be. Every neighborhood is essentially the same. So, it doesn't matter what part of the city you live, it will all be the same. Korea is a very homogenous country. There are no real defined areas the way there is in other countries. Korea simply has sprawling, homogenous cities. Korea is truly a country of new money. There are absolutely no "ghettos" or "wrong side of the tracks." It is also important to know that in the few poorer areas on the outskirts, there are no "scary" or threatening people. There are simple hard working people, who work selling vegetables and the like at streetside booths or in the big city markets. These Koreans are not at all aggressive or thieving as they sometimes are in other Asian cities. Chances are, though, you will probably not have any reason to be near one of these lower class areas, and your only experience with the lower classes will be through dealing with them as vendors at markets. However, when you do meet poorer Koreans, you will find that these people are very genuine. They were some of the nicest people I met while in Korea. Especially if you attempt to speak to them in Korean, as their English is the most limited of any Koreans, they will really warm up to you.
Koreans are generally very happy to meet you. You'll have many Koreans wanting to be your friend right away. Many of them want to be your friend to learn about your culture, others really want to practice their English. Either way, they are genuine and have no ill-intentions whatsoever. You'll also have many people looking at you, in fascination more than anything. Koreans, especially children, love seeing foreigners in the flesh. You'll notice that many advertisements include foreign celebrities. So, they are very receptive to and fascinated with Westerners. So, when they meet one, they are very happy. If they only look at you (or perhaps stare), it is merely that they are too shy to say hello. Children may actually point, as this is acceptable in their culture. Often their parents will then encourage them to say "hello" to you, to practice their English. This happened to me wherever I went, whether I was in the grocery line-up, at Starbucks, or just walking down the street. You may also hear them say, "meguk saram." Do not worry, if you hear this. They are merely saying, in awe of the sighting, "foreigner!" They are excited to see you, and not meaning any harm or insult. The words directly translate to American person. If you want to say Canadian, for instance, you can say "Canada saram." However, they generalize all foreigners as "meguk saram" similar to the way westerners generalize them as Asian. To them, we all seem the same.
2. In regards to living arrangements. Will my apartment be housed amongst other Pegasus recruitments or ESL teachers?
You will have standard teacher housing. In most cases, you are not the only foreigner in the building, as the common type of housing is the officetel (studio apartments) which is favored by foreigners and companies housing foreigners. However, there is no gaurantee that there will be other ESL teachers. It is only likely. There is a good chance that you will be near other teachers though. However, they may not be in the same building. This is for the school board to confirm and arrange. You will also be really close to the school. They are usually a short walk from the school. However, be assured that you will be instantly tapped into the network of other Ulsan teachers, and we will be organizing events for you throughout the year.
Safety is truly the least of your concerns while in Korea. I can understand where you are coming from with this concern. When I first went to Korea, none of my family and friends knew much about Korea -- nor did I really. It's one of those places that seems to go unregistered on any radars. Everyone hears about Japan, China, Thailand and other such places, but hears little about Korea. So, I was really stepping into the unknown. The good news for you, though, is that at Pegasus we have all been there, done that, and got the t-shirt. :)
So, we can help you understand what you are getting into... and rest assured, you really do not have to worry.
The fact is that you could hardly be choosing to go to a safer country. I say this now having traveled around the world since living in Korea, and I definitely know what it is like to feel unsafe. Korea is far safer than anywhere else you could possibly work as an English teacher. It is safer than working anywhere in Central or South America, safer than anywhere in Europe, and it is by far the safest place to teach in Asia. I have been to many international cities and wandered through some very shady areas, let me tell you. I have been to Bangkok, and other parts of Thailand, where you have to watch your bag from being snatched right off of your back, or where you can't trust most taxi drivers as they might take you for a ride somewhere to get you to buy into some scam. I've been to Beijing, where in certain heavily touristed areas the street children may swarm foreigners, grabbing onto their legs with their very filthy hands, until they are thrown some money. I've been to Hong Kong where in certain areas you cannot avoid the shady salesman always trying to drag you into their stores, to sell you some overpriced electronics. I have been followed through the streets of Cairo, having to fake calling the police to be left alone. I lived for a while in East London, where I ran home from the subway everyday as I felt so unnerved walking those streets, even in daylight. So, I definitely know how it feels to be in various types of danger. Yet, in all of my months in Korea, I never once felt threatened on any level. As far as the threat spectrum is concerned, Korea doesn't even register on it. It is a very law abiding society and I never heard of any real threats to foreigners. There are no areas that I would have felt unsafe walking around, even in the middle of the night. At first, this amazed me, as there are many places in Canada where I would definitely not walk at night. However, it is absolutely true that I would walk anywhere in Korea. It is a bit hard to describe, especially coming from North America, where cities do definitely have areas both good and bad. In fact, most cities in the world have bad areas, it would seem. Yet, truly, Korea is a rare gem of a place in that it really has no such areas. Everywhere is the same. Everywhere is safe. Once you get there, you will know exactly what we mean by this. It is a strange feeling to describe. In fact, the only other place I felt as safe was when I was in Singapore, as it too is a very law-abiding, respectful society.
I should mention that there are, indeed, a few slightly poorer areas, but they are not the same as poor areas in North America or in any other place for that matter. These areas are generally on the outskirts of the towns, more than in the centre. You will definitely not be living in these areas, as these small areas do not have apartments, which is the standard teacher accommodation. In the main parts of the cities, it is all big, tall, concrete apartment buildings everywhere, and this is where you will be. Every neighborhood is essentially the same. So, it doesn't matter what part of the city you live, it will all be the same. Korea is a very homogenous country. There are no real defined areas the way there is in other countries. Korea simply has sprawling, homogenous cities. Korea is truly a country of new money. There are absolutely no "ghettos" or "wrong side of the tracks." It is also important to know that in the few poorer areas on the outskirts, there are no "scary" or threatening people. There are simple hard working people, who work selling vegetables and the like at streetside booths or in the big city markets. These Koreans are not at all aggressive or thieving as they sometimes are in other Asian cities. Chances are, though, you will probably not have any reason to be near one of these lower class areas, and your only experience with the lower classes will be through dealing with them as vendors at markets. However, when you do meet poorer Koreans, you will find that these people are very genuine. They were some of the nicest people I met while in Korea. Especially if you attempt to speak to them in Korean, as their English is the most limited of any Koreans, they will really warm up to you.
Koreans are generally very happy to meet you. You'll have many Koreans wanting to be your friend right away. Many of them want to be your friend to learn about your culture, others really want to practice their English. Either way, they are genuine and have no ill-intentions whatsoever. You'll also have many people looking at you, in fascination more than anything. Koreans, especially children, love seeing foreigners in the flesh. You'll notice that many advertisements include foreign celebrities. So, they are very receptive to and fascinated with Westerners. So, when they meet one, they are very happy. If they only look at you (or perhaps stare), it is merely that they are too shy to say hello. Children may actually point, as this is acceptable in their culture. Often their parents will then encourage them to say "hello" to you, to practice their English. This happened to me wherever I went, whether I was in the grocery line-up, at Starbucks, or just walking down the street. You may also hear them say, "meguk saram." Do not worry, if you hear this. They are merely saying, in awe of the sighting, "foreigner!" They are excited to see you, and not meaning any harm or insult. The words directly translate to American person. If you want to say Canadian, for instance, you can say "Canada saram." However, they generalize all foreigners as "meguk saram" similar to the way westerners generalize them as Asian. To them, we all seem the same.
2. In regards to living arrangements. Will my apartment be housed amongst other Pegasus recruitments or ESL teachers?
You will have standard teacher housing. In most cases, you are not the only foreigner in the building, as the common type of housing is the officetel (studio apartments) which is favored by foreigners and companies housing foreigners. However, there is no gaurantee that there will be other ESL teachers. It is only likely. There is a good chance that you will be near other teachers though. However, they may not be in the same building. This is for the school board to confirm and arrange. You will also be really close to the school. They are usually a short walk from the school. However, be assured that you will be instantly tapped into the network of other Ulsan teachers, and we will be organizing events for you throughout the year.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Teaching in Korea poll results
Here's what you answered:
66% of you answered that you wanted to teach in Korea to experience a new culture
16% of you answered that you wanted to teach in Korea for the money
16% of you answered that you wanted to teach in Korea to meet other teachers/travelers
66% of you answered that you wanted to teach in Korea to experience a new culture
16% of you answered that you wanted to teach in Korea for the money
16% of you answered that you wanted to teach in Korea to meet other teachers/travelers
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Pegasus site temporarily down
We are in the process of re-doing our website and relocating our server. So, the site will be down for a day or so.
Any applications can be sent in via email to pegasusteachers@shaw.ca.
Any applications can be sent in via email to pegasusteachers@shaw.ca.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
9 Days of Mud!! Boryeong Mud Fest 2008!
"Escape your routine life with the experience of Mud!"Time to get dirty. We mean REALLY REALLY dirty!!
Teachers, if you can make it out to this event, we're sure you'll be writing home about it! Boryeong is famed for its mud beauty products, but this event takes this to a whole other level!!
This festival is right up there with Spain's La Tomatina Festival!!
It IS that much fun!
It's the 11th annual Mud Fest!!!
in Boryeong City,
at Daecheon Beach,
July 12-20.
Boryeong is about 2hrs southwest of Seoul.
in Boryeong City,
at Daecheon Beach,
July 12-20.
Boryeong is about 2hrs southwest of Seoul.
Sounds like soooo much fun!!
There's will be so many fun events taking place everyday!!
Check out this video of last year's festivities!
There's will be so many fun events taking place everyday!!
Check out this video of last year's festivities!
Last year's festival attracted about 32,000 foreigners. With various performances and events throughout the day and into the night along with free shuttle bus services going to and from famous tourist spots in Boryeong, everyone was guaranteed to have a fun time.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Canadian, eh? Well, Canada Day is coming!!
Hey all you Canadians!! As Canada Day approaches, your thoughts may be wandering back to the homeland... So, we thought we'd make sure everyone knows about the excellent Canada Day festivities taking place around Korea!korea4expats.com reports that this year the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Korea is putting on yet another great event, with more than 1000 Canadians expected to turn out! They call it "the biggest outdoor event in the foreigner community." At the event, they say there will be "a tug of war, three-legged races and frisbee toss - all reminiscent of the festivities of Canada Day back home."
Korea4expats.com has also posted the following information about the upcoming Canada Day Fest 2008 in Seoul:
"The price of admission gets you through the gates and access to the games, door prizes, live music and the other afternoon festivities.
Tickets for the event can be purchased before Tuesday, June 24th through the CCCK website (http://www.ccck.org/). There are NO ticket sales at the door!
Sunday, June 29, 200812:00pm - 6:00pm
Nanji Campground (near Worldcup Stadium Subway Station - Line #6)
shuttle bus available from Exit #1
TIX: 25,000KRW (plus food & drinks)
*Buy 5 tix, get 1 free
Pita Time Beef/Chicken/Garden Pita (6,500won)
Outback Steakhouse Burger Meal (15,000won*)
Outback Steakhouse Rib-eye Steak (25,000won*)
*includes salad, fixings & dessert
Hey, there will even be a Canadian Idol Korea competition at Canada Fest!!
According to the Korea Times, "two bands [who have been] selected on May 31... will then perform live on a large outdoor stage in front of 1,000 roaring fans." Apparently, as quoted in the Korea Times, Canadian Chamber of Commerce Korea chairman, Simon Bureau, says that ``the CCCK felt it would be a good idea to have some local talent for our annual Canada Day Fest."
That sounds like fun to us!! We hope you'll check it out!!!
We've also heard that Club FF in the Hongdae area of Seoul is putting on "Summer Tribute Party" Saturday, June 28, and many Canadians will likely be there. It sounds like a good time.
Or, if you are in the Suwon area, there's festivities going on too... Check out this Facebook event, about the local pub activities this coming weekend!!
Near Incheon? Check out this Facebook event posting!
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
More of your questions answered
I'm debating whether to go to Japan (with JET) or Korea. What are your recommendations?
We are currently running a program with excellent terms. It's called the Pegasus Program, and if you want to know more info about it, check out this other blog post. In fact, it is a lot like the JET program in Japan, but WAY better.
Japan's JET program, according to its website, places teachers "with local government organisations throughout Japan in every imaginable locality, including large cities, small and medium-sized towns, and rural farming and fishing villages."
The Pegasus Program, on the other hand, ONLY places is major centers. Our Pegasus Program does not place teachers in small towns, rural farming or fishing villages.
Another difference is the application timeline. The Pegasus Program has TWO placements each year, as opposed to one: late August and late February. The application process is also much shorter. Applicants can start apply as late as 2 months prior to placement. That means, you can apply in June for August placement, or December for February placement. With the JET program, applications are taken up to year in advance and their application deadline ends 9 months before placement. For teachers, this means a lot of planning ahead. At Pegasus, we realize that graduating university students often cannot plan that far in advance. So, the Pegasus Program is uniquely geared towards the new graduate's needs.
Also, with JET, placements may vary. The Pegasus Program, however, only places you at a public school, and you get MANY paid prep hours. You will work no more than 22 hours teaching a week, and the other 18 hours are for prep and meetings within the school. There are no unpaid hours. Anything beyond the contract hours will be paid as overtime. There is no split shifts either... just the standard 8-4 Mon-Fri. Every single week. (This is a key difference between working for the public schools versus private hogwans in Korea too) Also, the career prospects are really good when you teach at public schools in Korea! You may even be able to use the experience on your teaching resume in your home country!
How much will I save when I am in Korea? Will I have enough to travel
As for costs, no matter where you
work in Korea, you can save save save. As all your major costs are provided for, and the cost of living is really quite low (you can go out and have a GREAT time on well under $20 to give you an idea; $50 would be splashing right out!). And don't forget, the most expensive thing in Korea is accommodation, and that is provided free to you! Also, flights to many destination are much cheaper from Korea. I went somewhere every month while I was in Korea (on weekends and/or holidays) and still sent money home to my bank. I went to Thailand, China, Japan, and all around Korea while working in Korea! Not only that, but by the end of my contract, I had enough saved in Korea (not including money I sent home) to buy an around the world ticket and travel though Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa for a few months! So, the options for travel and saving are definitely all there for you when you choose to teach in Korea!
What can I expect being placed in Korea with Pegasus?
As for working with Pegasus. We are all past teachers. So, we have great relationships with our schools and only place teachers at schools where we would personally want to work... So, you can rest assured that you have chosen the right company to work with for placement in Korea. Not only that, but we pride ourselves in maintaining a great bond with, and support network for, our teachers throughout the year. So, you are never really on your own!
What's "the best" location to work in Korea?
As for choice of place in Korea, no matter where you work, you will have a great time. Every city/town is vibrant and thriving, and you will have a great cultural experience no matter what. We don't like to state where would be "the best" as each teacher has different ideas about what they would like in a place. Some people are better in smaller places, and some only feel comfortable with a big city. We have written another great FAQ section on our blog about the homogeneity of Korea, however, which may help you understand our point as well.
We are currently running a program with excellent terms. It's called the Pegasus Program, and if you want to know more info about it, check out this other blog post. In fact, it is a lot like the JET program in Japan, but WAY better.
Japan's JET program, according to its website, places teachers "with local government organisations throughout Japan in every imaginable locality, including large cities, small and medium-sized towns, and rural farming and fishing villages."
The Pegasus Program, on the other hand, ONLY places is major centers. Our Pegasus Program does not place teachers in small towns, rural farming or fishing villages.
Another difference is the application timeline. The Pegasus Program has TWO placements each year, as opposed to one: late August and late February. The application process is also much shorter. Applicants can start apply as late as 2 months prior to placement. That means, you can apply in June for August placement, or December for February placement. With the JET program, applications are taken up to year in advance and their application deadline ends 9 months before placement. For teachers, this means a lot of planning ahead. At Pegasus, we realize that graduating university students often cannot plan that far in advance. So, the Pegasus Program is uniquely geared towards the new graduate's needs.
Also, with JET, placements may vary. The Pegasus Program, however, only places you at a public school, and you get MANY paid prep hours. You will work no more than 22 hours teaching a week, and the other 18 hours are for prep and meetings within the school. There are no unpaid hours. Anything beyond the contract hours will be paid as overtime. There is no split shifts either... just the standard 8-4 Mon-Fri. Every single week. (This is a key difference between working for the public schools versus private hogwans in Korea too) Also, the career prospects are really good when you teach at public schools in Korea! You may even be able to use the experience on your teaching resume in your home country!
How much will I save when I am in Korea? Will I have enough to travel
As for costs, no matter where you
work in Korea, you can save save save. As all your major costs are provided for, and the cost of living is really quite low (you can go out and have a GREAT time on well under $20 to give you an idea; $50 would be splashing right out!). And don't forget, the most expensive thing in Korea is accommodation, and that is provided free to you! Also, flights to many destination are much cheaper from Korea. I went somewhere every month while I was in Korea (on weekends and/or holidays) and still sent money home to my bank. I went to Thailand, China, Japan, and all around Korea while working in Korea! Not only that, but by the end of my contract, I had enough saved in Korea (not including money I sent home) to buy an around the world ticket and travel though Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa for a few months! So, the options for travel and saving are definitely all there for you when you choose to teach in Korea!What can I expect being placed in Korea with Pegasus?
As for working with Pegasus. We are all past teachers. So, we have great relationships with our schools and only place teachers at schools where we would personally want to work... So, you can rest assured that you have chosen the right company to work with for placement in Korea. Not only that, but we pride ourselves in maintaining a great bond with, and support network for, our teachers throughout the year. So, you are never really on your own!
What's "the best" location to work in Korea?
As for choice of place in Korea, no matter where you work, you will have a great time. Every city/town is vibrant and thriving, and you will have a great cultural experience no matter what. We don't like to state where would be "the best" as each teacher has different ideas about what they would like in a place. Some people are better in smaller places, and some only feel comfortable with a big city. We have written another great FAQ section on our blog about the homogeneity of Korea, however, which may help you understand our point as well.
