Hi Jon,

Yes, you have my permission to post it.


Terry Pruett-Said
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After 15 years in ESL in various capacities it seems to me that all ESL
positions have good points and bad points.  ESL in community college-usually
requires a Master's, some states require certification--lots of part-time
positions at CC (I've also seen the number of 64%).  But if you can get a
full-time job seems like a good deal. 

ESL in IEP's at universities--nearly always requires a Master's, some jobs
especially directorship's now require PhD's. Not a lot of new positions
opening up at this time in US as countries realize it is cheaper to improve
English skills of students in-country. But there are still some new
positions just not growing at the rate they once were. More and more IEP's
are diversifying into the university as a whole which may make it more
likely to need a PhD in the future. 

Private language programs and IEP's--may hire BA's or Master's--seem to hire
more part-time to control costs.  Most jobs on a temporary basis.  Often
required to teach from a set curriculum. 

Adult Education ESL--doesn't necessarily require an advanced degree.  But
most positions part-time except for coordinators.  Can pay quite poorly but
seems to epend on state. Two years ago in Kansas $20 p hr. in Iowa $8.75 p
hr. 

ESL in public schools--requires a BA/BS with ESL certification and a
teacher's license. Jobs can vary greatly.  Full-time positions a good
deal--good pay relatively speaking and some job security. But too many ESL
positions paid at aid pay or done in some other questionable way to defray
costs. 

EFL outside of US --can vary greatly from horrid exploitation to incredibly
plum positions. Thus, requirements can vary greatly to to ability to speak
English to a PhD in Linguistics. Looks good on a resume and usually an
invaluable experience but can be difficult to be available for jobs in the
States. Some people have very difficult time readjusting to life in States
also. 

In sum, you are unlikely to get rich teaching ESL but will quite possibly be
immensely satisfied with what you do everyday. But people do leave the field
because they have to pay the rent. This has been my experience and think it
would be valuable to get other input. 

Terry Pruett-Said