u/Neflighm

Hey everyone, as I prepare for my first hiring season, I find myself becoming a bit nervous.

For context, Ive been teaching ESL for almost 7 years in South Korea. I've finally got my certification, am about to start a M. Ed (University of the People), and am excited to finally become a "real" teacher.

However, ESL classes are quite different than a primary education environment. Theres more students, more responsibilities, and generally more pressure to ensure competence.

I love teaching, I've had many positive experiences with student rapport, and have made strong impressions at my hagwons with management and study body. I am very enthusiastic about finally making this change. But I'm just getting a bit nervous when I think of the difference between my "after-school ESL" experience versus a bona fide educational environment.

So, I'm just looking for experiences people have had making the switch. How did you find the class sizes? Did you find it harder to engage with the classes? Did you notice a difference between coworkers?

Any of your insight would be great to hear! Thank you!

I'm curious if anyone has a degree from here or has heard of it?--I suppose it would be more likely for people working in Korea or Asia. I live in Korea and the long term plan is to live on Jeju with my wife (Korean native) and daughter.

I'm looking into doing their IBEC program, but I'm curious if the Masters would be a worth-while investment, especially for schools like JKIS or Branksome Hall. By chance, if there are any folks working at one of these schools, have you heard of this degree or school?

The IBEC program can be completed mostly online, which is idea, where as the masters program takes 2 years (~9 credits / semester).

I'd hate to do the masters and it turn out to be a nothing burger when the IBEC has a stronger obvious return on investment.