Indian national Priti shares her success story - securing a job teaching English in China. We asked her more about the process and for advice on teaching prospects for those considered non-native English speakers.
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Hi Priti - please tell us more about you and why you chose a TESOL course
I’m Priti Rai and I am from India. I have a master’s degree in education from Andrews University, Michigan, US. I chose the Global English TESOL course because I thought it genuine and helpful for me and also because it is recognized. I had already contacted Louisa three years ago regarding TEFL jobs and she answered all my queries.
Why did you apply to teach English in China?
I had always wanted to teach English, but my first preference was Japan. However I didn’t get through the interviews, so I thought of China. Since I had the Global English level 4 TESOL, I was offered many interview options and I passed two interviews.
Who are you working for and what was the interview process like?
I have secured a job working as a language instructor with Sunshine Foreign Language Institute, Mudanjiang city in Heilongjiang province, China. I will be teaching English to kids and also to adults in a language school.
The process of interviewing was different from Japan and India: after an initial interview, the first round was with the agency, then I was required to make a 5 minute video and send it to them. Then, after the video round I was given a final interview with the school. And then I signed the contract.
How did you manage to get a visa to teach legally? We understand it is difficult for those classed as non-native English speakers?
I got the z visa from China. My employer in China sent me the work permit and I applied for the visa from India. One of the requirements for this job was that my degree should be from the US or UK. Since I had a US degree it was easier for me to get this job. However, some other interviewers didn’t mention this requirement as long as you have a good spoken English and a non-Indian accent.
What is your advice to other non-native English speakers who are thinking of doing a TESOL course with us?
I have been teaching for 5 years now, but I learnt a lot more when I did TESOL with Global English. The course is very helpful for other countries too. My advice to non-native speakers is definitely go for this course and believe that you can do it. During my interviews I was able to answer many questions about teaching methods because of this course. It was also cost-effective way to obtain recognized certification.
Good luck, Priti - and keep in touch.
Interested in taking a TESOL course with us but not a native-English speaker? No problem! Read our FAQ on studying with us here.
The Global English Team
Got a question about teaching in China or TESOL course training options? Email the author Louisa Walsh
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* The 150-hour Global English TESOL course Priti took with Global English
* More stories and advice on teaching English in China
* Can I find teaching work as a non-native English speaker?
* Employers recruiting Global English trainees for English teaching jobs in China
* How to get your documents legalised to gain the Z visa for China
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