William-Harper

Stepping into an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) teaching position in China is an exciting career move. While your general ESL experience is a fantastic foundation, EAP requires a specific shift in focus. You’re not just teaching language; you’re equipping students with the critical tools for academic success in English-speaking higher education environments. Understanding the Core Shift: From...[Read More]

So, you’re feeling the pull toward teaching in China? It’s an incredible opportunity for cultural immersion and professional growth. But when you’re new to the world of international education, figuring out where to start can feel overwhelming, especially with mixed reviews about large organizations. Let’s break down your first steps. Your Experience is an Asset First, don’t discount your backgrou...[Read More]

So, you’re building a future that combines your academic journey with a dream of teaching abroad. You’re focused, you’re planning, but a big question looms: will an online degree be a hurdle when applying to teach in places like Japan or Taiwan? Let’s break down the reality, separate the myths from the facts, and craft a plan that keeps your momentum going. The Flexibility ...[Read More]

So, you’ve got your sights set on teaching English in East Asia, but your journey to a bachelor’s degree is taking a non-traditional route. You’re not alone. Many aspiring educators find themselves considering online degrees for their flexibility and pace, especially during life’s transitional phases. The big question lingers: Will an online degree hold you back from landin...[Read More]

Dreaming of swapping your classroom for a sun-drenched plaza in Spain? You’re not alone. The idea of teaching English amidst the rich culture, incredible food, and vibrant life of Spain is a powerful draw for many. However, for non-EU citizens, the path can seem shrouded in mystery and bureaucratic hurdles. Let’s clear the air and map out your journey. It’s entirely possible, but it requires strat...[Read More]

So, you’ve made the big decision. Your time teaching English abroad is coming to an end, and you’re preparing to head home. It’s an exciting yet daunting step, filled with logistical puzzles. One of the biggest challenges is navigating the departure process with your employer, especially when it comes to contracts, apartments, and final pay. Understanding Your Contract is Key You...[Read More]

Remember sitting in a high school language class, repeating verb conjugations and memorizing vocabulary lists for a test? For many, that’s the extent of the experience. Years of study culminate in little more than the ability to ask where the library is or order a simple meal—hardly a foundation for a real conversation. This is a widespread, quiet disappointment. Students dedicate hundreds of clas...[Read More]

Walking into a new classroom can feel like stepping onto a stage. The air is thick with anticipation, and dozens of curious eyes silently assess you. In that pivotal first moment, before a single lesson plan is enacted, you have a powerful tool at your disposal. It’s not your textbook, your whiteboard markers, or your meticulously prepared slides. It’s a simple, genuine greeting. Why the First Wor...[Read More]

So, you’ve aced the interview. The conversation flowed, your enthusiasm shone through, and to your surprise, an offer lands in your inbox almost immediately—complete with a salary that exceeds your initial expectations. While this is undoubtedly exciting, it’s also perfectly normal to feel a wave of cautious optimism. Is this standard practice, or does it seem too good to be true? Let’s demystify ...[Read More]

So, you’re ready to take the plunge and teach English abroad. You’ve got your TEFL certificate, your sense of adventure is packed, and you’re scrolling through endless lists of potential employers. Then, you hit a wall of confusion. You see the same letters popping up everywhere, but they seem to mean completely different things. One list recommends “EF,” while anothe...[Read More]

Landing a teaching position in Japan is a dream come true for many. The excitement of a new contract, however, can be quickly tempered by practical questions about the year ahead. One of the most common concerns for instructors on academic-year contracts revolves around the unpaid months between semesters. This period, often lasting around three months, requires careful financial and logistical pl...[Read More]

Walking into a classroom in a new country can be intimidating. The air is thick with the unknown—unfamiliar sounds, different social cues, and a sea of faces waiting to see what you’ll do. You’ve prepared your lesson plan, you know your grammar points, but sometimes the most powerful tool isn’t in your teaching arsenal; it’s on your face. A smile is a universal welcome mat. It’s a non-verbal signa...[Read More]