Why did you decide to teach abroad with Footprints Recruiting in Korea?
Alexa: An acquaintance of mine, who was teaching in Korea, recommended that I use Footprints. Since I knew very little about recruiting companies and how to go about teaching in Korea, I took his advice and went with Footprints. In hindsight, I probably needed to do more research about which recruitment organization to use, but I trusted the judgment of my acquaintance at the time.
What made this teach abroad experience unique and special?
Alexa: There are a lot of reasons why this teaching experience was unique and special. I had a lot of “firsts” teaching English in Korea. It was my first time in Asia, my first time living in the heart of a big city, and my first time teaching kids. Here are some more reasons why:
- The location: I lived right near Gangnam (just like the song by Psy). The area could not have been better. I was near several metro and bus lines, incredible authentic restaurants, great shopping, and fun nightlife. The buildings were super modern, and the city was always alive. People say Vegas is the city that never sleeps. Well, add Seoul to that list too.
- The kids: Every teacher has his/her own unique experiences with their students. I was no exception and made some very special connections with my little munchkins, especially my second year in Korea. They brought a smile to my face every day and impressed me with their ability to learn so quickly.
How has this experience impacted your future? (Personally, professionally, academically, etc.)
Alexa:I don’t even know where to begin. My experience teaching Korea impacted me on all sorts of levels. On a personal level, I fell in love for the first and only time with a fellow teacher. Who knew I’d find love in Korea? After three years, we are still together.
On a different personal level, living abroad and traveling allowed me to reflect on my interests and learn more about myself – things like how I deal with conflict, what makes me happy, how I communicate best with others, and so much more.
If it wasn’t for my time abroad, I would not have been where I am today professionally. After living in Korea, I launched my own website, web show, and podcast, AtlasSliced.com, which details life abroad. My career goals are very different than they were a few years ago, and I attribute much of the change to my experiences overseas. I am now considering going back to school to get an MA in International Education. I didn’t even know that Masters’ programs in International Education even existed up until a few months ago.
What is one piece of advice you would offer something considering teaching abroad in Korea?
Alexa: The biggest piece of advice I have is to research the work culture at schools. Keep in mind that you are in a different country, so you will have to adapt to the way they conduct their business rather than the other way around. I didn’t do enough research on the work culture and experienced major culture shock.
Understand the value of hierarchy and harmony and how they play a role when communicating with your Korean counterparts and superiors. Know that being direct can often be seen as rude. If you have an issue with something, bring it up privately and in a passive manner.
Saving face is also a very big deal in Korea. To avoid embarrassment or shame, Koreans will tell “white lies.” This is just part of the culture and should not be taken offensively. When I first witnessed a white lie, I was angry that my supervisors wouldn’t tell me the truth. But, that’s just the way it is in Korea. Sometimes concealing the whole truth is the best option.