Career Transition: From IT Professional to English Teacher

LIFE BEFORE MOVING ABROAD TO TEACH ENGLISH

I had a stable career in the IT sector in the United States, where I had spent roughly a decade. As a single man, I enjoyed a comfortable middle-class lifestyle, owning a modest home in the suburbs, a dependable car, and even a motorcycle. My only financial obligation was my mortgage.

While my life seemed relatively secure, I often faced long hours and considerable stress from my job responsibilities. Like many in a typical office setting, I eagerly anticipated the weekends and cherished my Paid Time Off (PTO) each year.

THE EXPERIENCE THAT SPARKED MY DESIRE

In 2007, I planned a trip to Japan, dedicating several months to research and preparation. I utilized two of my three weeks of PTO for a 12-day adventure across various cities, plus two days for travel. The trip was so enriching that I returned home with a strong desire to live and work in Japan for an extended period to truly immerse myself in the culture. This realization motivated me to explore how to make that dream a reality.

CLEAR OBJECTIVES… WHAT NEXT?

After examining different career paths that allowed for international relocation, I determined that teaching English was the most viable option. Broadly speaking, teaching English can be categorized into two main areas:

1. Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), which focuses on non-native speakers in their home countries.
2. Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL), which involves teaching non-native speakers living in English-speaking countries.

Several reasons convinced me that this direction could suit me well:

• I am a citizen of a native English-speaking country (Canada).
• My professional communication skills have always been valued by colleagues.
• My English pronunciation is neutral and easily understood by diverse teams.
• I have experience assisting non-native speakers in language exchanges, often receiving feedback about my passion for teaching.
• I come from a family that deeply respects the teaching profession.

Next, I needed to research how to obtain a work permit and residency in a foreign nation. This generally entails acquiring a proper work visa, typically linked to a residence permit.

When looking into Japan specifically, as is often the case in many developed countries, one typically needs a four-year Bachelor’s degree and a recognized TEFL certificate. At that moment, I had neither.

IMPORTANT TEFL CERTIFICATION INSIGHTS

It's crucial to navigate the vast information surrounding TEFL certifications. There are only two globally recognized certifications:

1. CELTA (Certificate of English Language Teaching to Adults), issued by the University of Cambridge.
2. CERTtesol, granted by Trinity College, London.

Both require significant time and financial investment, with costs around US$2000 for CELTA when I pursued it in Canada.

From my observations in job listings globally, CELTA was frequently the preferred certification for adult teaching positions.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR TEACHING CHILDREN

If you aim to teach children (K-12) in established schools, you will typically need a Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field, along with a formal teaching license that includes TESOL specialization.

A FINAL NOTE

The information I share stems from years of research and firsthand teaching experiences across various educational environments. Individual circumstances will vary based on target schools, immigration requirements, nationality, and language proficiency.

LAYING THE FOUNDATION FOR MY CAREER SHIFT

Initially, I lacked both a TEFL certificate and a Bachelor’s degree, which prompted me to decide whether I could achieve these goals while working full-time.

I ultimately enrolled in a reputable university, completing a Bachelor of Science in IT over four years while managing monthly payments. This also allowed me to earn valuable IT certifications, contributing to my career advancement.

After three years, I sold my home and vehicles, returning to Canada for my final year in IT. During this time, I completed the CELTA course, which included both online and in-person components, all while maintaining full-time employment. The entire process was highly stressful and required significant commitment.

In total, it took about 7.5 years of dedication, effort, and financial investment to meet the minimum qualifications for teaching English abroad, all while having no formal teaching experience.

JOB SEARCH AND TRANSITION

My job search revealed that East Asia was the most promising region to begin my new career. After nearly 8 years of pursuing my goal, I secured a position in Shanghai. At that time, China only required a Bachelor’s degree, making my CELTA certification a distinguishing factor among applicants.

My proficiency with technology and organizational skills greatly aided my success in achieving my goals.

FINAL THOUGHTS

If, after reflecting on your current career, you feel unfulfilled, remember that change is always within reach. Achieving complex goals requires strategic planning, sacrifices, and patience. With determination, I believe most aspirations can be attained.

I hope this article serves as a practical guide for those considering a transition to teaching English abroad.

Best wishes,

Pascal

PS: For insights on my trip to Japan, travel articles, personal growth content, and more about me, feel free to explore the links provided.