Ask Headmaster Ken

Hello all.

I've recently returned from spending an academic year teaching English in the Republic of Georgia as a break from my university studies (I currently only have an A.A. degree). I've accumulated ten months experience teaching 3rd-12th grade English along with two months teaching adult students in a part-time job. I'm now back in the States finishing my degree, and I expect to graduate next May.

I've read that teaching experience is typically counted post-graduation. Will this year of experience benefit me when applying for teaching jobs in China, or is it negated by the fact that I accrued the experience before graduation? Will potential employers dismiss my experience because it was not in or near China?

How closely your resume is scrutinized depends upon the particular location and employer.

If you are applying to a top tier employer in a top tier city you may find your qualifications sorely lacking.

If you are applying to employers who are not so competitive in cities that are highly competitive, (e.g. Shanghai) then your qualifications may be considered acceptable.

Simply send your resume and see what results you get. The regulations are not interpreted/enforced uniformly in China so what may be impermissible with one employer or city may be permissible in the next.

Ultimately, it is the employer who accepts you and presents your documents to the local officials who determine your suitability.

State your qualifications plainly, chronologically, and honestly and send out your resume.