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Teaching English in Korea- FAQs
Do I need to learn how to use chopsticks before I go?
Not at all. They have forks and knives there.. guess they were expecting you. But learning new things is all part of the fun about working overseas, so you may want to give them a try after you arrive. Besides, you’ll impress your friends when you get home and provide moments of joy for your Chinese hosts as they watch you struggle, slop noodles on your lap and listen to your tummy gurgle all at the same time. I’ve heard it’s really polluted there – will that affect my health?
Indeed, China has a great deal of pollution, like many other parts of the world, like the noise pollution of Madrid or the air quality of Athens. There is a noticeable smog in the air on many days – cold or hot and you’re advised not to swim in the rivers. If you’re sensitive to it (like allergies), you may want to teach in more costal or central and rural areas, rather than big cities. Can I take up Sumo-wrestling while I’m there?
Sumo- wrestling is Japanese, so it’s highly unlikely you’ll find many takers on it. However, many martial arts come from China such as karate and kung-fu and you can enroll in schools that will teach you the steps and provide you with practicing partners. You’ll notice hundreds of Chinese doing Tai-chi in the early morning sin Chinese parks and parking lots. This is a nice way to learn Asian movements that revolve around the martial arts and prepare your bloodstream for that first gulp of coffee. What about insurance? What if I get sick?
Medical insurance is highly recommended. Although some traditional methods of Chinese medicine are considered better than western methods, they are often very esoteric for westerners and so doubtful (there’s a dependency on both herbal medicines and acupuncture). If you get sick, you need to assess the situation. If it’s something minor (a cold or similar), Chinese medicine may be beneficial for you. If it’s something major – like surgery – you should consider returning to your home country. If you are unsure, you can visit a western doctor in many big cities for a diagnosis. As there are lots of health precautions to be careful of, you should get advice if there are any persisting and flu-like symptoms. Do I have to be careful about what I say and do there?
As in anywhere you go, the smart traveler always respects his host country – the customs and policies. China’s political infrastructure is not as open as the one you come from and you are considered a “guest” there. So be forewarned, in some societies, such as this one, citizens are not supposed to question the status quo. Doing so will not only get your “guest” status revoked (and you deported) but may also be dangerous for your Chinese friends. In other words, yes be careful what you say and do. Can I buy English books there?
There are lots of English books available in larger areas and even entire English books stores in places like Beijing. However, if there is anything you thoroughly enjoy (favorite author, needed reference book), you may want to pack it along to be sure. Amazon-dot-com may not yet reach the rural areas of China. Also, keep in mind that censorship is in effect in China and if you bring in any literature deemed offensive or against political ideology, it will be taken away from you at customs. What are the chances of getting side-winded by oncoming bicycles (my mom wants to know)?
Pretty good… if you like standing in the middle of traffic as a pastime. The Chinese have built bicycle paths beside most major roads in most cities, so you’re fairly safe if you stay out of the bicycle rivers flowing next to the sidewalks. The again, crossing the road – where it’s not a crosswalk, as the Chinese are wanton to do – will be like a time warp back into a frogger video game, with cars, bicycles and who knows what else swinging around you from different directions. Tell your mom, you’ll stay mom the sidewalk and you’ll be okay. Will I be able to get by without knowing much Chinese?
That’s a tough one. You’ll definitely get some strategies in communicating in body language when you arrive. Even in hotels and touristy places, many Chinese still struggle with English so communicating can seem like a struggle some days. Patience, smiling, gestures and a good phrasebook (with Chinese characters) can help you get by. Eventually, you will meet and know Chinese who speak English and can converse freely with them. You may also want to start picking up some Chinese – definitely a skill to use in the future, either in the global village or at parties. What will I miss the most about home? Should I bring anything?
Other foreign teachers suggest bringing over-the-counter pharmaceuticals like Tylanol or Aspirin. Razors are expensive and vitamins can be worthwhile. Some say foot or medical powder is handy when it gets hot. Any food stuff you like – I filled a bag with Kraft macaroni and cheese. What will you miss?
Well, your mom of course.
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