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Teachers Abroad Chatboard

Sweden

by David

Feb 22, 2011

Hi I don't know if this is the right place or not. I was just offered a position in Sweden, and wanted some information on salary on cost of living. I'm being offered a salary of 28,000 Kroner a month, plus relocation expenses (flight so far, and am negotiating one month salary up front), and the state health insurance. I've read that it can be very expensive to live in Sweden? Does anyone know how this salary would compare against living in the economy? Is it below, above, or right at average?

Thanks a bunch for any help.

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School Psyc Yes, I am Mary, not her headhunter.

On 2/25/11, Dave -> Everyone wrote: > Does DODEA take over everything??? I'm busy for one week and this is > what happens. > > Dave: (Can i call you Paul?), LOL. I hear where you are coming from. > I'm single too (well not married no kids, etc) and I know where your > coming from whe...See MoreYes, I am Mary, not her headhunter.

On 2/25/11, Dave -> Everyone wrote: > Does DODEA take over everything??? I'm busy for one week and this is > what happens. > > Dave: (Can i call you Paul?), LOL. I hear where you are coming from. > I'm single too (well not married no kids, etc) and I know where your > coming from when you find yourself at a school thats all couples and > families. I have to say though based on your work description, the > issue isnt really DoDDS because every teaching job is pretty much as > you describe. My job in Italy if i wanted to reduce it to bullit > points would sound the same. The problem for you is when all those > family people head home thats where they want to be. You on the other > hand I'm guessing are somewhere in your 20's and you get back to you > apartment and think do I get on my computer or watch a DVD, and what > you really want to be doing is heading out to the night life, and quit > honestly are thinking about getting laid? You might feel your living > in a senior citizens home, and being a military base where men already > out number woman 20:1 your feeling a little deprived. I'm guessing in > South Korea, that your not in Seoul, because if you were you wouldn't > be "bored". So while your DoDDS job probabley isnt bad, as a realtor > will tell you the three most important things are "location, location, > location". My advice is really simple, in your search stick to major > metro/cosmo cities. In Sweden your talking Stockholm, in Japan Tokyo, > in China Beijing, Shanghai, Goungzhou, Hong Kong, in the U.K. thats > London, in France stick with Paris, in Italy Rome's the place to be. > Lastly, everyone has their deal breakers, and they vary a lot. let me > ask you IF you had your job somewhere you wanted to be, would you > still want to leave? > > To MS Teacher: I dont think the solution to his problem is to do more > work in the form of extra curriculars. I'm sorry things are bad back > in the states I have a lot of friends that are scared out of their > mind and I get an email every week if I know about any positions. I > hope you find your eden. > > Thomas: Dont confuse me with David, no serious if this forum ever gets > a moderator I'm voting for you, your just so agreeable. How are things > going? I had to interview a perspective teacher here, and my kids are > going nuts over their IB exams coming up. pretty much my week. > > School Psyc: Are you Mary's headhunter nowand when did you change your > name on here? How are things going? > > > On 2/24/11, D. Thomas wrote: >> And there is nothing wrong with having that perspective and that >> dream. My wife and I are both teachers and our son has Autism. So >> DoDDS sounded like a way for us to work overseas and still have a >> good educational situation for our son. Fortunately, we were able >> to have all of that without DoDDS, although I would never rule it >> out for the future. >> >> On 2/24/11, MSTeacher wrote: >>> I never said it was the money. For us, it is about the quality >>> of life. The opportunity what we could give to our children that >>> they would not have stateside. Do you know how difficult things >>> are right now on this side of the world? In Detroit, they are >>> looking at closing 70 schools and classroom sizes are going to go >>> up to 60 kids. The state of RI, are looking at cutting 2000 >>> teaching jobs. Mayor Bloomberg of NYC is looking at cutting >>> another 6,000 jobs. Did you know that 400,000 teachers lost >>> their jobs nationwide last year. I don't see it getting any >>> better. So for my family, DoDDS would be the dream job. >>> >>> >>> On 2/24/11, School Psyc wrote: >>>> David, thank you for your post. I appreciate your >>>> honesty. >>>> >>>> On 2/24/11, Been there, done that wrote: >>>>> Why question someone's opinion about Dodds? It's not a >>>>> dream job. Sure...it's >>>>> a good job, pays well, has lots of benefits but for >>>>> many people (like me), it's not about the money. It's >>>>> about quality of life... enjoying where you are (like >>>>> Dave and D. Thomas). Why should someone stay where they >>>>> are just because the money is good? You can make GREAT >>>>> money teaching in Saudi but I sure would never question >>>>> your motives if you chose not to teach there! It amazes >>>>> me how so many posters here think a Dodds job is the >>>>> end all. There are some down sides...if you have kids, >>>>> unless they go to school on the economy, they will be >>>>> going to the Dodds schools, which in many cases, are >>>>> not so disimilar to inner city schools (sorry if I >>>>> offend anyone here). I had students who actually moved >>>>> back stateside because the school in which I taught was >>>>> so bad. Depending on where you are, medical facilities >>>>> may not be the best--even if they are--you are last in >>>>> line behind the soldiers. Say goodbye to being with >>>>> extended family during holidays, graduations, bar >>>>> mitvahs, etc... What are you going to do if you don't >>>>> like the school or the community or the base on which >>>>> you live? You are kind of stuck--especially if you have >>>>> decided to make Dodds your career! What if learning a >>>>> new language isn't as easy as you thought? What if your >>>>> kids hate it and refuse to acclimate? What if you live >>>>> in a community that does not particularly care for >>>>> Americans? There are lots of places that don't want the >>>>> American presence there. Sure, DoDDs pays well...but it >>>>> is not for everyone. I enjoyed my stint overseas but >>>>> have no desire to go back to teaching with Dodds--which >>>>> is why I read this board because I thought it was about >>>>> teaching in international schools other than Dodds. >>>>> >>>>> On 2/24/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>> Hey, to be fair, David was practically begged for his >>>>>> opinion/input on DoDDS and purposefully DID NOT lead >>>>>> with anything negative about DoDDS or post on the DoD >>>>>> board. I mean come on, it's not like he insulted >>>>>> someone's religion (or maybe he did). >>>>>> >>>>>> Sorry about that Dave. Obviously some people very >>>>>> strongly about DoDDS being th be all/end all of >>>>>> possible futures for them and their families. >>>>>> >>>>>> On 2/24/11, MSTeacher wrote: >>>>>>> Makes me wonder why you don't really think it is a >>>>>>> dream job. You are living overseas where everything >>>>>>> is paid for and you can travel. You are under the >>>>>>> umbrella of the Federal Government which to me >>>>>>> equals awesome benefits and a pension. I would love >>>>>>> to know how old you are. I am guessing in your >>>>>>> twenties where you don't really know about life >>>>>>> yet. Being single means no responsibilities to >>>>>>> anyone but yourself. For those of us who have >>>>>>> families, the opportunity to live overseas with all >>>>>>> of those benefits and open a world up to our >>>>>>> children about different cultures is a dream come >>>>>>> true and is definitely like winning the lottery. If >>>>>>> the way you are describing your typical day is >>>>>>> true, then I don't see what is so special about >>>>>>> your qualifications. Do you lead any extra >>>>>>> curricular groups? Are involved with anything else >>>>>>> in the school? Have you taken advantage of >>>>>>> traveling during the holidays? What is so bad about >>>>>>> living in S. Korea. I know there are many single >>>>>>> teachers over there and they are enjoying >>>>>>> themselves immensely. Well, I guess it is good you >>>>>>> are leaving because it makes room for someone who >>>>>>> REALLY wants to work for DoDDS. Good luck to you in >>>>>>> Sweden! >>>>>>> >>>>>>> >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>> What's the big obsession with being a DoDDS teacher? >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> I teach middle school science. I don't know what >>>>>>>> will happen to the position. If I had to guess It >>>>>>>> will probably be offered to a transfer. There are >>>>>>>> a bunch of people being displaced in Germany who >>>>>>>> will be shuffled around. I've read tho DOD board >>>>>>>> on here and no offense I don't have anything >>>>>>>> constructive to contribute. I haven't enjoyed my >>>>>>>> year here in S.K., and all the DOD board seems to >>>>>>>> be about is getting hired. It's not the dream job >>>>>>>> everyone seems to think it is, and I'd just be a >>>>>>>> negative source of information. The hiring >>>>>>>> process for me was pretty unspectacular, the >>>>>>>> working conditions here are like they are in any >>>>>>>> school in the U.S. You wake up, you go to work, >>>>>>>> you teach your classes, you have lunch, you do >>>>>>>> reports, you plan/grade, go to meetings, and go >>>>>>>> home. I don't have a whole lot to add beyond >>>>>>>> that. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, School Psyc wrote: >>>>>>>>> If you don't mind my asking, what position do >>>>>>>>> you currently hold with DoDDS? Is that a >>>>>>>>> potential vacancy for next year? We have one >>>>>>>>> poster whose husband is a middle and high >>>>>>>>> school science/math teacher hoping to be hired >>>>>>>>> by DoDDS. >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>> It's a great position to retire from, I >>>>>>>>>> understand why a lot of people want in. >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> How do you like China? >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>> Wow, David. You are quite the enigma around >>>>>>>>>>> here. Leaving DoDDS to go into an >>>>>>>>>>> international teaching position. Many >>>>>>>>>>> people on this board are still hoping to >>>>>>>>>>> get in with DoDDS and are considering int'l >>>>>>>>>>> teaching only as a viable alternative to >>>>>>>>>>> the lottery like odds of DoDDS employment. >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> I'm currently teaching in Beijing and have >>>>>>>>>>> previously lived and taught in Egpyt and >>>>>>>>>>> Japan. Our first jobs we got through Search >>>>>>>>>>> Associates and the next two basically by >>>>>>>>>>> contacting schools directly. >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> We would like to end up in Europe >>>>>>>>>>> eventually, but are enjoying China and also >>>>>>>>>>> the chance to pay off bills and save some >>>>>>>>>>> money. >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>> Sorry if I seemed defensive, the message >>>>>>>>>>>> from Sam just came out of nowhere. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> The school is an independent school that >>>>>>>>>>>> offers the IB program. I will be teaching >>>>>>>>>>>> MYP 1 science. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> I'm currently teaching at a DoDDS school >>>>>>>>>>>> in S.K. and really don't want to wait 2 >>>>>>>>>>>> more years to MAYBE transfer to Europe, >>>>>>>>>>>> since people are being transfered out of >>>>>>>>>>>> Germany because several of our schools >>>>>>>>>>>> are closing there, it's just going to be >>>>>>>>>>>> harder. It's really not very fun here, a >>>>>>>>>>>> lot of people have families here, and I'm >>>>>>>>>>>> a single guy. I care less about the >>>>>>>>>>>> salary, security, support, and American >>>>>>>>>>>> comforts, and more about living life. >>>>>>>>>>>> Personally, some hot blondes would be >>>>>>>>>>>> nice. DoDDS schools are very >>>>>>>>>>>> "family" centered. Everyone has >>>>>>>>>>>> a family here, service personel, faculty, >>>>>>>>>>>> staff. It's just one big happy family, >>>>>>>>>>>> and honestly it's like living on Prozac. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> I'd love to be in Italy, how did that >>>>>>>>>>>> happen? Where are you Tom? >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, Dave -> David wrote: WOW, >>>>>>>>>>>>>> David, thats >>>>>>>>>>>>> pretty remarkable. I don't know what >>>>>>>>>>>>> your qualifications are (you must be >>>>>>>>>>>>> pretty highly qualified), but what you >>>>>>>>>>>>> describe is the "one in a >>>>>>>>>>>>> million" scenario, you were really >>>>>>>>>>>>> in the right place at the right time >>>>>>>>>>>>> with the right skill set. Most people >>>>>>>>>>>>> shoot for a top tier school (in Sweden >>>>>>>>>>>>> something like Stockholm International >>>>>>>>>>>>> School) and basically spend a lot of >>>>>>>>>>>>> effort, time, and money and never get a >>>>>>>>>>>>> "dream job", especially >>>>>>>>>>>>> considering you seem to be getting an >>>>>>>>>>>>> above average salary. Really, what you >>>>>>>>>>>>> describe is not very common, and pretty >>>>>>>>>>>>> unusual. Some people on this forum are >>>>>>>>>>>>> bound to be a little envious >>>>>>>>>>>>> (especially with the economic recession >>>>>>>>>>>>> going on). Really "europe" is >>>>>>>>>>>>> seldom a first or early posting for >>>>>>>>>>>>> anyone. Most people start in Asia or >>>>>>>>>>>>> the Middle East and work their way >>>>>>>>>>>>> towards western europe or one of the 3 >>>>>>>>>>>>> "little tigers" (Japan, Hong >>>>>>>>>>>>> Kong, Singapore) in Asia. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> Education has recruiters or "head >>>>>>>>>>>>> hunters" just like any other >>>>>>>>>>>>> profession, when they use the term >>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiter or recruiting agency they >>>>>>>>>>>>> usually mean Search Associates (SA), or >>>>>>>>>>>>> International School Services (ISS) as >>>>>>>>>>>>> an example. These companies charge >>>>>>>>>>>>> teachers a fee to access their job >>>>>>>>>>>>> database, and to attend their hiring >>>>>>>>>>>>> fairs. There's nothing wrong with Daves >>>>>>>>>>>>> ESL cafe (or any of the free services), >>>>>>>>>>>>> its just very unusual for that caliber >>>>>>>>>>>>> of a position to be advertised there. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> If you don't mind answering, are you >>>>>>>>>>>>> teaching ESL, or another subject? Is >>>>>>>>>>>>> the school an international school >>>>>>>>>>>>> (private), public school, or >>>>>>>>>>>>> independent school? What grade/age >>>>>>>>>>>>> level? I'm sure people are curious. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm in Italy actually, and have been to >>>>>>>>>>>>> Sweden although it was very briefly. >>>>>>>>>>>>> It's cold almost year round. If your >>>>>>>>>>>>> into the blonde beauty type its the >>>>>>>>>>>>> place to be. The food can be >>>>>>>>>>>>> "heavy" and a bit on the >>>>>>>>>>>>> bland side. If your a drinker you will >>>>>>>>>>>>> fit in very well. As far as >>>>>>>>>>>>> history/touristy things to do its not >>>>>>>>>>>>> Paris or Rome (I'm referring to >>>>>>>>>>>>> Stockholm). The corporate HQ for Ikea >>>>>>>>>>>>> is in Sweden. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>> What do you mean a recruiting agency, >>>>>>>>>>>>>> like a job fair recruiter? The >>>>>>>>>>>>>> position was posted on Daves ESL cafe >>>>>>>>>>>>>> just after new years in January and I >>>>>>>>>>>>>> just sent them my resume and a cover >>>>>>>>>>>>>> letter by email. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> We talk a lot on here about the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> best way to find, apply and land >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> overseas jobs. I think Sam was >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> asking how did you find out about >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the position? Did you apply >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> directly to the school or use a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiting agency etc? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I don't understand what you mean? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I applied, interviewed, and the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> principal offered me the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> position. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, sam wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> how did you get the position? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Hi I don't know if this is >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the right place or not. I was >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just offered a position in >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sweden, and wanted some >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> information on salary on cost >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> of living. I'm being offered >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> a salary of 28,000 Kroner a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> month, plus relocation >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> expenses (flight so far, and >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> am negotiating one month >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary up front), and the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> state health insurance. I've >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> read that it can be very >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> expensive to live in Sweden? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Does anyone know how this >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary would compare against >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> living in the economy? Is it >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> below, above, or right at >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> average? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Thanks a bunch for any help.

Feb 25, 2011

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School Psyc As for what I have been up to...

I have applied to an accredited university that offers an online masters program in special education at resident rates for nonresidents.

The house is still here and we are still saving money for a potential move.

My application is current with DoDDS and DDESS, but I plan to remain in my c...See MoreAs for what I have been up to...

I have applied to an accredited university that offers an online masters program in special education at resident rates for nonresidents.

The house is still here and we are still saving money for a potential move.

My application is current with DoDDS and DDESS, but I plan to remain in my current position unless something spectacular happens.

On 2/25/11, School Psyc wrote: > Yes, I am Mary, not her headhunter. > > > On 2/25/11, Dave -> Everyone wrote: >> Does DODEA take over everything??? I'm busy for one week and this is >> what happens. >> >> Dave: (Can i call you Paul?), LOL. I hear where you are coming from. >> I'm single too (well not married no kids, etc) and I know where your >> coming from when you find yourself at a school thats all couples and >> families. I have to say though based on your work description, the >> issue isnt really DoDDS because every teaching job is pretty much as >> you describe. My job in Italy if i wanted to reduce it to bullit >> points would sound the same. The problem for you is when all those >> family people head home thats where they want to be. You on the other >> hand I'm guessing are somewhere in your 20's and you get back to you >> apartment and think do I get on my computer or watch a DVD, and what >> you really want to be doing is heading out to the night life, and quit >> honestly are thinking about getting laid? You might feel your living >> in a senior citizens home, and being a military base where men already >> out number woman 20:1 your feeling a little deprived. I'm guessing in >> South Korea, that your not in Seoul, because if you were you wouldn't >> be "bored". So while your DoDDS job probabley isnt bad, as a realtor >> will tell you the three most important things are "location, location, >> location". My advice is really simple, in your search stick to major >> metro/cosmo cities. In Sweden your talking Stockholm, in Japan Tokyo, >> in China Beijing, Shanghai, Goungzhou, Hong Kong, in the U.K. thats >> London, in France stick with Paris, in Italy Rome's the place to be. >> Lastly, everyone has their deal breakers, and they vary a lot. let me >> ask you IF you had your job somewhere you wanted to be, would you >> still want to leave? >> >> To MS Teacher: I dont think the solution to his problem is to do more >> work in the form of extra curriculars. I'm sorry things are bad back >> in the states I have a lot of friends that are scared out of their >> mind and I get an email every week if I know about any positions. I >> hope you find your eden. >> >> Thomas: Dont confuse me with David, no serious if this forum ever gets >> a moderator I'm voting for you, your just so agreeable. How are things >> going? I had to interview a perspective teacher here, and my kids are >> going nuts over their IB exams coming up. pretty much my week. >> >> School Psyc: Are you Mary's headhunter nowand when did you change your >> name on here? How are things going? >> >> >> On 2/24/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>> And there is nothing wrong with having that perspective and that >>> dream. My wife and I are both teachers and our son has Autism. So >>> DoDDS sounded like a way for us to work overseas and still have a >>> good educational situation for our son. Fortunately, we were able >>> to have all of that without DoDDS, although I would never rule it >>> out for the future. >>> >>> On 2/24/11, MSTeacher wrote: >>>> I never said it was the money. For us, it is about the quality >>>> of life. The opportunity what we could give to our children that >>>> they would not have stateside. Do you know how difficult things >>>> are right now on this side of the world? In Detroit, they are >>>> looking at closing 70 schools and classroom sizes are going to go >>>> up to 60 kids. The state of RI, are looking at cutting 2000 >>>> teaching jobs. Mayor Bloomberg of NYC is looking at cutting >>>> another 6,000 jobs. Did you know that 400,000 teachers lost >>>> their jobs nationwide last year. I don't see it getting any >>>> better. So for my family, DoDDS would be the dream job. >>>> >>>> >>>> On 2/24/11, School Psyc wrote: >>>>> David, thank you for your post. I appreciate your >>>>> honesty. >>>>> >>>>> On 2/24/11, Been there, done that wrote: >>>>>> Why question someone's opinion about Dodds? It's not a >>>>>> dream job. Sure...it's >>>>>> a good job, pays well, has lots of benefits but for >>>>>> many people (like me), it's not about the money. It's >>>>>> about quality of life... enjoying where you are (like >>>>>> Dave and D. Thomas). Why should someone stay where they >>>>>> are just because the money is good? You can make GREAT >>>>>> money teaching in Saudi but I sure would never question >>>>>> your motives if you chose not to teach there! It amazes >>>>>> me how so many posters here think a Dodds job is the >>>>>> end all. There are some down sides...if you have kids, >>>>>> unless they go to school on the economy, they will be >>>>>> going to the Dodds schools, which in many cases, are >>>>>> not so disimilar to inner city schools (sorry if I >>>>>> offend anyone here). I had students who actually moved >>>>>> back stateside because the school in which I taught was >>>>>> so bad. Depending on where you are, medical facilities >>>>>> may not be the best--even if they are--you are last in >>>>>> line behind the soldiers. Say goodbye to being with >>>>>> extended family during holidays, graduations, bar >>>>>> mitvahs, etc... What are you going to do if you don't >>>>>> like the school or the community or the base on which >>>>>> you live? You are kind of stuck--especially if you have >>>>>> decided to make Dodds your career! What if learning a >>>>>> new language isn't as easy as you thought? What if your >>>>>> kids hate it and refuse to acclimate? What if you live >>>>>> in a community that does not particularly care for >>>>>> Americans? There are lots of places that don't want the >>>>>> American presence there. Sure, DoDDs pays well...but it >>>>>> is not for everyone. I enjoyed my stint overseas but >>>>>> have no desire to go back to teaching with Dodds--which >>>>>> is why I read this board because I thought it was about >>>>>> teaching in international schools other than Dodds. >>>>>> >>>>>> On 2/24/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>> Hey, to be fair, David was practically begged for his >>>>>>> opinion/input on DoDDS and purposefully DID NOT lead >>>>>>> with anything negative about DoDDS or post on the DoD >>>>>>> board. I mean come on, it's not like he insulted >>>>>>> someone's religion (or maybe he did). >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Sorry about that Dave. Obviously some people very >>>>>>> strongly about DoDDS being th be all/end all of >>>>>>> possible futures for them and their families. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 2/24/11, MSTeacher wrote: >>>>>>>> Makes me wonder why you don't really think it is a >>>>>>>> dream job. You are living overseas where everything >>>>>>>> is paid for and you can travel. You are under the >>>>>>>> umbrella of the Federal Government which to me >>>>>>>> equals awesome benefits and a pension. I would love >>>>>>>> to know how old you are. I am guessing in your >>>>>>>> twenties where you don't really know about life >>>>>>>> yet. Being single means no responsibilities to >>>>>>>> anyone but yourself. For those of us who have >>>>>>>> families, the opportunity to live overseas with all >>>>>>>> of those benefits and open a world up to our >>>>>>>> children about different cultures is a dream come >>>>>>>> true and is definitely like winning the lottery. If >>>>>>>> the way you are describing your typical day is >>>>>>>> true, then I don't see what is so special about >>>>>>>> your qualifications. Do you lead any extra >>>>>>>> curricular groups? Are involved with anything else >>>>>>>> in the school? Have you taken advantage of >>>>>>>> traveling during the holidays? What is so bad about >>>>>>>> living in S. Korea. I know there are many single >>>>>>>> teachers over there and they are enjoying >>>>>>>> themselves immensely. Well, I guess it is good you >>>>>>>> are leaving because it makes room for someone who >>>>>>>> REALLY wants to work for DoDDS. Good luck to you in >>>>>>>> Sweden! >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>> What's the big obsession with being a DoDDS teacher? >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> I teach middle school science. I don't know what >>>>>>>>> will happen to the position. If I had to guess It >>>>>>>>> will probably be offered to a transfer. There are >>>>>>>>> a bunch of people being displaced in Germany who >>>>>>>>> will be shuffled around. I've read tho DOD board >>>>>>>>> on here and no offense I don't have anything >>>>>>>>> constructive to contribute. I haven't enjoyed my >>>>>>>>> year here in S.K., and all the DOD board seems to >>>>>>>>> be about is getting hired. It's not the dream job >>>>>>>>> everyone seems to think it is, and I'd just be a >>>>>>>>> negative source of information. The hiring >>>>>>>>> process for me was pretty unspectacular, the >>>>>>>>> working conditions here are like they are in any >>>>>>>>> school in the U.S. You wake up, you go to work, >>>>>>>>> you teach your classes, you have lunch, you do >>>>>>>>> reports, you plan/grade, go to meetings, and go >>>>>>>>> home. I don't have a whole lot to add beyond >>>>>>>>> that. >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, School Psyc wrote: >>>>>>>>>> If you don't mind my asking, what position do >>>>>>>>>> you currently hold with DoDDS? Is that a >>>>>>>>>> potential vacancy for next year? We have one >>>>>>>>>> poster whose husband is a middle and high >>>>>>>>>> school science/math teacher hoping to be hired >>>>>>>>>> by DoDDS. >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>> It's a great position to retire from, I >>>>>>>>>>> understand why a lot of people want in. >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> How do you like China? >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>> Wow, David. You are quite the enigma around >>>>>>>>>>>> here. Leaving DoDDS to go into an >>>>>>>>>>>> international teaching position. Many >>>>>>>>>>>> people on this board are still hoping to >>>>>>>>>>>> get in with DoDDS and are considering int'l >>>>>>>>>>>> teaching only as a viable alternative to >>>>>>>>>>>> the lottery like odds of DoDDS employment. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> I'm currently teaching in Beijing and have >>>>>>>>>>>> previously lived and taught in Egpyt and >>>>>>>>>>>> Japan. Our first jobs we got through Search >>>>>>>>>>>> Associates and the next two basically by >>>>>>>>>>>> contacting schools directly. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> We would like to end up in Europe >>>>>>>>>>>> eventually, but are enjoying China and also >>>>>>>>>>>> the chance to pay off bills and save some >>>>>>>>>>>> money. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>> Sorry if I seemed defensive, the message >>>>>>>>>>>>> from Sam just came out of nowhere. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> The school is an independent school that >>>>>>>>>>>>> offers the IB program. I will be teaching >>>>>>>>>>>>> MYP 1 science. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm currently teaching at a DoDDS school >>>>>>>>>>>>> in S.K. and really don't want to wait 2 >>>>>>>>>>>>> more years to MAYBE transfer to Europe, >>>>>>>>>>>>> since people are being transfered out of >>>>>>>>>>>>> Germany because several of our schools >>>>>>>>>>>>> are closing there, it's just going to be >>>>>>>>>>>>> harder. It's really not very fun here, a >>>>>>>>>>>>> lot of people have families here, and I'm >>>>>>>>>>>>> a single guy. I care less about the >>>>>>>>>>>>> salary, security, support, and American >>>>>>>>>>>>> comforts, and more about living life. >>>>>>>>>>>>> Personally, some hot blondes would be >>>>>>>>>>>>> nice. DoDDS schools are very >>>>>>>>>>>>> "family" centered. Everyone has >>>>>>>>>>>>> a family here, service personel, faculty, >>>>>>>>>>>>> staff. It's just one big happy family, >>>>>>>>>>>>> and honestly it's like living on Prozac. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> I'd love to be in Italy, how did that >>>>>>>>>>>>> happen? Where are you Tom? >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, Dave -> David wrote: WOW, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> David, thats >>>>>>>>>>>>>> pretty remarkable. I don't know what >>>>>>>>>>>>>> your qualifications are (you must be >>>>>>>>>>>>>> pretty highly qualified), but what you >>>>>>>>>>>>>> describe is the "one in a >>>>>>>>>>>>>> million" scenario, you were really >>>>>>>>>>>>>> in the right place at the right time >>>>>>>>>>>>>> with the right skill set. Most people >>>>>>>>>>>>>> shoot for a top tier school (in Sweden >>>>>>>>>>>>>> something like Stockholm International >>>>>>>>>>>>>> School) and basically spend a lot of >>>>>>>>>>>>>> effort, time, and money and never get a >>>>>>>>>>>>>> "dream job", especially >>>>>>>>>>>>>> considering you seem to be getting an >>>>>>>>>>>>>> above average salary. Really, what you >>>>>>>>>>>>>> describe is not very common, and pretty >>>>>>>>>>>>>> unusual. Some people on this forum are >>>>>>>>>>>>>> bound to be a little envious >>>>>>>>>>>>>> (especially with the economic recession >>>>>>>>>>>>>> going on). Really "europe" is >>>>>>>>>>>>>> seldom a first or early posting for >>>>>>>>>>>>>> anyone. Most people start in Asia or >>>>>>>>>>>>>> the Middle East and work their way >>>>>>>>>>>>>> towards western europe or one of the 3 >>>>>>>>>>>>>> "little tigers" (Japan, Hong >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Kong, Singapore) in Asia. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Education has recruiters or "head >>>>>>>>>>>>>> hunters" just like any other >>>>>>>>>>>>>> profession, when they use the term >>>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiter or recruiting agency they >>>>>>>>>>>>>> usually mean Search Associates (SA), or >>>>>>>>>>>>>> International School Services (ISS) as >>>>>>>>>>>>>> an example. These companies charge >>>>>>>>>>>>>> teachers a fee to access their job >>>>>>>>>>>>>> database, and to attend their hiring >>>>>>>>>>>>>> fairs. There's nothing wrong with Daves >>>>>>>>>>>>>> ESL cafe (or any of the free services), >>>>>>>>>>>>>> its just very unusual for that caliber >>>>>>>>>>>>>> of a position to be advertised there. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> If you don't mind answering, are you >>>>>>>>>>>>>> teaching ESL, or another subject? Is >>>>>>>>>>>>>> the school an international school >>>>>>>>>>>>>> (private), public school, or >>>>>>>>>>>>>> independent school? What grade/age >>>>>>>>>>>>>> level? I'm sure people are curious. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm in Italy actually, and have been to >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sweden although it was very briefly. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> It's cold almost year round. If your >>>>>>>>>>>>>> into the blonde beauty type its the >>>>>>>>>>>>>> place to be. The food can be >>>>>>>>>>>>>> "heavy" and a bit on the >>>>>>>>>>>>>> bland side. If your a drinker you will >>>>>>>>>>>>>> fit in very well. As far as >>>>>>>>>>>>>> history/touristy things to do its not >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Paris or Rome (I'm referring to >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Stockholm). The corporate HQ for Ikea >>>>>>>>>>>>>> is in Sweden. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> What do you mean a recruiting agency, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> like a job fair recruiter? The >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> position was posted on Daves ESL cafe >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just after new years in January and I >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just sent them my resume and a cover >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> letter by email. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> We talk a lot on here about the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> best way to find, apply and land >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> overseas jobs. I think Sam was >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> asking how did you find out about >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the position? Did you apply >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> directly to the school or use a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiting agency etc? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I don't understand what you mean? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I applied, interviewed, and the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> principal offered me the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> position. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, sam wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> how did you get the position? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Hi I don't know if this is >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the right place or not. I was >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just offered a position in >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sweden, and wanted some >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> information on salary on cost >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> of living. I'm being offered >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> a salary of 28,000 Kroner a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> month, plus relocation >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> expenses (flight so far, and >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> am negotiating one month >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary up front), and the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> state health insurance. I've >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> read that it can be very >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> expensive to live in Sweden? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Does anyone know how this >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary would compare against >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> living in the economy? Is it >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> below, above, or right at >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> average? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Thanks a bunch for any help.

Feb 25, 2011

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Dave -> Thomas Well it goes without saying hiring would be a lot easier with an unlimited budget and no limitations.

I have to say DoDDS does seem to have fewer debbie downers then a majority of other schools.

If you make it to Italy let me know when your in Rome, would love to share a meal and some wine. I was going to go to Thailand this Sum...See MoreWell it goes without saying hiring would be a lot easier with an unlimited budget and no limitations.

I have to say DoDDS does seem to have fewer debbie downers then a majority of other schools.

If you make it to Italy let me know when your in Rome, would love to share a meal and some wine. I was going to go to Thailand this Summer my friend Greg works there and we were going just have fun, but Amelia does not approve, so maybe he's going to come here and hang out. Rome is just so expensive, and Bangkok is so cheap.

On 2/25/11, D. Thomas wrote: > Yes, I'm actually having to add staff as we have added > some new students, > which is a good thing. There are some good people in > the area, but it's just a matter of getting a match for > my needs and my budget. > > It interesting to hear the other side of DoDDS. All we > usually hear are the positives from "actual" > DoDDS employees and those looking to join them. > > We are both in the middle of two year contracts here so > will be sticking around at least another year. I'm > leaning towards a 3rd year as we have had to use some > potential savings to pay for relocation expenses that > weren't covered and debts back in the states. We could > really use a 3rd year of pure savings before moving > again. But thanks for thinking of me. We would like to > spend some time in Europe eventually. > > Actually, we have decided not to go back to the US this > summer. We are thinking about Europe during the summer, > itinarary to be decided. I'm leaning towards Italy > since we did Ireland, England, Belgium and Germany on > the way to Egypt a few years back. > > > >> On 2/25/11, Dave -> Thomas wrote: When I was hiring >> in China, if I didnt have someone by the time New >> Year was done I gave up, unless they literally fell >> on my doorstep. Seriously, it's almost March you've >> got 3 months of instruction left and if you can only >> hire locals, it means your looking at the people that >> didn't work out for someone else the first semester. >> >> Well a lot of the chatrooms, this one, the DOD room >> and a lot of the other chat rooms are either obsessed >> with the state budget cuts or else nothing is going >> on. Usually the DOD room is flooded with Job Fair >> questions by now, and the renew date for next year is >> coming up. >> >> I have to say I admire the moxie of that David guy. >> To just walk away from a DODEA position? He either >> doesn't know what he's walking away from (I mean >> money has to count for something, even if only a >> little) or he's really got to be in an unhappy place. >> Honestly, when I was in South Korea, (and it was >> Seoul) I had a pretty exciting, fun time. >> >> Making summer plans yet? Are you staying with your >> current school or looking for another position? I ask >> because were looking for a learning resource/home >> bound/counselor position (consolidating 3 part time >> positions), though the learning resource is more >> technology resources (running a learning instruction >> computer lab). I put in for a position at our sister >> school in Paris (our other sister schools are in >> London, and Hong Kong) but otherwise I've gotten to >> like it here, and I'm really starting to feel a deep >> love for Amelia, I honestly thought I'd have always >> married an asian girl. Never thought I'd fall for a >> european girl. >> >> On 2/25/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>> Yes, it is a bit scary when I come off as the voice >>> of reason. >>> >>> There has been a bit of mission creep over here >>> lately. Which is ironic given it took so long for >>> Mary to get her wish and have us talking int'l >>> teaching here and all things DoDDS over there. >>> >>> I've been interviewing here for mid-year positions >>> and given that I am pretty much limited to people >>> already here, it's been a bit frustrating so far. >>> >>>> On 2/25/11, Dave -> Everyone wrote: Does DODEA >>>> take over everything??? I'm busy for one week and >>>> this is what happens. >>>> >>>> Dave: (Can i call you Paul?), LOL. I hear where >>>> you are coming from. I'm single too (well not >>>> married no kids, etc) and I know where your >>>> coming from when you find yourself at a school >>>> thats all couples and families. I have to say >>>> though based on your work description, the issue >>>> isnt really DoDDS because every teaching job is >>>> pretty much as you describe. My job in Italy if i >>>> wanted to reduce it to bullit points would sound >>>> the same. The problem for you is when all those >>>> family people head home thats where they want to >>>> be. You on the other hand I'm guessing are >>>> somewhere in your 20's and you get back to you >>>> apartment and think do I get on my computer or >>>> watch a DVD, and what you really want to be doing >>>> is heading out to the night life, and quit >>>> honestly are thinking about getting laid? You >>>> might feel your living in a senior citizens home, >>>> and being a military base where men already out >>>> number woman 20:1 your feeling a little deprived. >>>> I'm guessing in South Korea, that your not in >>>> Seoul, because if you were you wouldn't be >>>> "bored". So while your DoDDS job >>>> probabley isnt bad, as a realtor will tell you >>>> the three most important things are >>>> "location, location, location". My >>>> advice is really simple, in your search stick to >>>> major metro/cosmo cities. In Sweden your talking >>>> Stockholm, in Japan Tokyo, in China Beijing, >>>> Shanghai, Goungzhou, Hong Kong, in the U.K. thats >>>> London, in France stick with Paris, in Italy >>>> Rome's the place to be. Lastly, everyone has >>>> their deal breakers, and they vary a lot. let me >>>> ask you IF you had your job somewhere you wanted >>>> to be, would you still want to leave? >>>> >>>> To MS Teacher: I dont think the solution to his >>>> problem is to do more work in the form of extra >>>> curriculars. I'm sorry things are bad back in the >>>> states I have a lot of friends that are scared >>>> out of their mind and I get an email every week >>>> if I know about any positions. I hope you find >>>> your eden. >>>> >>>> Thomas: Dont confuse me with David, no serious if >>>> this forum ever gets a moderator I'm voting for >>>> you, your just so agreeable. How are things >>>> going? I had to interview a perspective teacher >>>> here, and my kids are going nuts over their IB >>>> exams coming up. pretty much my week. >>>> >>>> School Psyc: Are you Mary's headhunter nowand >>>> when did you change your name on here? How are >>>> things going? >>>> >>>> >>>> On 2/24/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>> And there is nothing wrong with having that >>>>> perspective and that dream. My wife and I are >>>>> both teachers and our son has Autism. So DoDDS >>>>> sounded like a way for us to work overseas and >>>>> still have a good educational situation for our >>>>> son. Fortunately, we were able to have all of >>>>> that without DoDDS, although I would never rule >>>>> it out for the future. >>>>> >>>>> On 2/24/11, MSTeacher wrote: >>>>>> I never said it was the money. For us, it is >>>>>> about the quality of life. The opportunity >>>>>> what we could give to our children that they >>>>>> would not have stateside. Do you know how >>>>>> difficult things are right now on this side >>>>>> of the world? In Detroit, they are looking at >>>>>> closing 70 schools and classroom sizes are >>>>>> going to go up to 60 kids. The state of RI, >>>>>> are looking at cutting 2000 teaching jobs. >>>>>> Mayor Bloomberg of NYC is looking at cutting >>>>>> another 6,000 jobs. Did you know that 400,000 >>>>>> teachers lost their jobs nationwide last >>>>>> year. I don't see it getting any better. So >>>>>> for my family, DoDDS would be the dream job. >>>>>> >>>>>> >>>>>> On 2/24/11, School Psyc wrote: >>>>>>> David, thank you for your post. I >>>>>>> appreciate your honesty. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 2/24/11, Been there, done that wrote: >>>>>>>> Why question someone's opinion about >>>>>>>> Dodds? It's not a dream job. Sure...it's >>>>>>>> a good job, pays well, has lots of >>>>>>>> benefits but for many people (like me), >>>>>>>> it's not about the money. It's about >>>>>>>> quality of life... enjoying where you are >>>>>>>> (like Dave and D. Thomas). Why should >>>>>>>> someone stay where they are just because >>>>>>>> the money is good? You can make GREAT >>>>>>>> money teaching in Saudi but I sure would >>>>>>>> never question your motives if you chose >>>>>>>> not to teach there! It amazes me how so >>>>>>>> many posters here think a Dodds job is >>>>>>>> the end all. There are some down >>>>>>>> sides...if you have kids, unless they go >>>>>>>> to school on the economy, they will be >>>>>>>> going to the Dodds schools, which in many >>>>>>>> cases, are not so disimilar to inner city >>>>>>>> schools (sorry if I offend anyone here). >>>>>>>> I had students who actually moved back >>>>>>>> stateside because the school in which I >>>>>>>> taught was so bad. Depending on where you >>>>>>>> are, medical facilities may not be the >>>>>>>> best--even if they are--you are last in >>>>>>>> line behind the soldiers. Say goodbye to >>>>>>>> being with extended family during >>>>>>>> holidays, graduations, bar mitvahs, >>>>>>>> etc... What are you going to do if you >>>>>>>> don't like the school or the community or >>>>>>>> the base on which you live? You are kind >>>>>>>> of stuck--especially if you have decided >>>>>>>> to make Dodds your career! What if >>>>>>>> learning a new language isn't as easy as >>>>>>>> you thought? What if your kids hate it >>>>>>>> and refuse to acclimate? What if you live >>>>>>>> in a community that does not particularly >>>>>>>> care for Americans? There are lots of >>>>>>>> places that don't want the American >>>>>>>> presence there. Sure, DoDDs pays >>>>>>>> well...but it is not for everyone. I >>>>>>>> enjoyed my stint overseas but have no >>>>>>>> desire to go back to teaching with >>>>>>>> Dodds--which is why I read this board >>>>>>>> because I thought it was about teaching >>>>>>>> in international schools other than >>>>>>>> Dodds. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> On 2/24/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>> Hey, to be fair, David was practically >>>>>>>>> begged for his opinion/input on DoDDS >>>>>>>>> and purposefully DID NOT lead with >>>>>>>>> anything negative about DoDDS or post >>>>>>>>> on the DoD board. I mean come on, it's >>>>>>>>> not like he insulted someone's religion >>>>>>>>> (or maybe he did). >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> Sorry about that Dave. Obviously some >>>>>>>>> people very strongly about DoDDS being >>>>>>>>> th be all/end all of possible futures >>>>>>>>> for them and their families. >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> On 2/24/11, MSTeacher wrote: >>>>>>>>>> Makes me wonder why you don't really >>>>>>>>>> think it is a dream job. You are >>>>>>>>>> living overseas where everything is >>>>>>>>>> paid for and you can travel. You are >>>>>>>>>> under the umbrella of the Federal >>>>>>>>>> Government which to me equals awesome >>>>>>>>>> benefits and a pension. I would love >>>>>>>>>> to know how old you are. I am >>>>>>>>>> guessing in your twenties where you >>>>>>>>>> don't really know about life yet. >>>>>>>>>> Being single means no >>>>>>>>>> responsibilities to anyone but >>>>>>>>>> yourself. For those of us who have >>>>>>>>>> families, the opportunity to live >>>>>>>>>> overseas with all of those benefits >>>>>>>>>> and open a world up to our children >>>>>>>>>> about different cultures is a dream >>>>>>>>>> come true and is definitely like >>>>>>>>>> winning the lottery. If the way you >>>>>>>>>> are describing your typical day is >>>>>>>>>> true, then I don't see what is so >>>>>>>>>> special about your qualifications. Do >>>>>>>>>> you lead any extra curricular groups? >>>>>>>>>> Are involved with anything else in >>>>>>>>>> the school? Have you taken advantage >>>>>>>>>> of traveling during the holidays? >>>>>>>>>> What is so bad about living in S. >>>>>>>>>> Korea. I know there are many single >>>>>>>>>> teachers over there and they are >>>>>>>>>> enjoying themselves immensely. Well, >>>>>>>>>> I guess it is good you are leaving >>>>>>>>>> because it makes room for someone who >>>>>>>>>> REALLY wants to work for DoDDS. Good >>>>>>>>>> luck to you in Sweden! >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>> What's the big obsession with being >>>>>>>>>>> a DoDDS teacher? >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> I teach middle school science. I >>>>>>>>>>> don't know what will happen to the >>>>>>>>>>> position. If I had to guess It will >>>>>>>>>>> probably be offered to a transfer. >>>>>>>>>>> There are a bunch of people being >>>>>>>>>>> displaced in Germany who will be >>>>>>>>>>> shuffled around. I've read tho DOD >>>>>>>>>>> board on here and no offense I >>>>>>>>>>> don't have anything constructive to >>>>>>>>>>> contribute. I haven't enjoyed my >>>>>>>>>>> year here in S.K., and all the DOD >>>>>>>>>>> board seems to be about is getting >>>>>>>>>>> hired. It's not the dream job >>>>>>>>>>> everyone seems to think it is, and >>>>>>>>>>> I'd just be a negative source of >>>>>>>>>>> information. The hiring process for >>>>>>>>>>> me was pretty unspectacular, the >>>>>>>>>>> working conditions here are like >>>>>>>>>>> they are in any school in the U.S. >>>>>>>>>>> You wake up, you go to work, you >>>>>>>>>>> teach your classes, you have lunch, >>>>>>>>>>> you do reports, you plan/grade, go >>>>>>>>>>> to meetings, and go home. I don't >>>>>>>>>>> have a whole lot to add beyond >>>>>>>>>>> that. >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, School Psyc wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>> If you don't mind my asking, what >>>>>>>>>>>> position do you currently hold >>>>>>>>>>>> with DoDDS? Is that a potential >>>>>>>>>>>> vacancy for next year? We have >>>>>>>>>>>> one poster whose husband is a >>>>>>>>>>>> middle and high school >>>>>>>>>>>> science/math teacher hoping to be >>>>>>>>>>>> hired by DoDDS. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>> It's a great position to retire >>>>>>>>>>>>> from, I understand why a lot of >>>>>>>>>>>>> people want in. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> How do you like China? >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Wow, David. You are quite the >>>>>>>>>>>>>> enigma around here. Leaving >>>>>>>>>>>>>> DoDDS to go into an >>>>>>>>>>>>>> international teaching >>>>>>>>>>>>>> position. Many people on this >>>>>>>>>>>>>> board are still hoping to get >>>>>>>>>>>>>> in with DoDDS and are >>>>>>>>>>>>>> considering int'l teaching >>>>>>>>>>>>>> only as a viable alternative >>>>>>>>>>>>>> to the lottery like odds of >>>>>>>>>>>>>> DoDDS employment. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm currently teaching in >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Beijing and have previously >>>>>>>>>>>>>> lived and taught in Egpyt and >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Japan. Our first jobs we got >>>>>>>>>>>>>> through Search Associates and >>>>>>>>>>>>>> the next two basically by >>>>>>>>>>>>>> contacting schools directly. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> We would like to end up in >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Europe eventually, but are >>>>>>>>>>>>>> enjoying China and also the >>>>>>>>>>>>>> chance to pay off bills and >>>>>>>>>>>>>> save some money. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sorry if I seemed >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> defensive, the message from >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sam just came out of >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> nowhere. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> The school is an >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> independent school that >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> offers the IB program. I >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> will be teaching MYP 1 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> science. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm currently teaching at a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> DoDDS school in S.K. and >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> really don't want to wait 2 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> more years to MAYBE >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> transfer to Europe, since >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> people are being transfered >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> out of Germany because >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> several of our schools are >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> closing there, it's just >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> going to be harder. It's >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> really not very fun here, a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> lot of people have families >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> here, and I'm a single guy. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I care less about the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary, security, support, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> and American comforts, and >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> more about living life. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Personally, some hot >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> blondes would be nice. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> DoDDS schools are very >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> "family" >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> centered. Everyone has a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> family here, service >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> personel, faculty, staff. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> It's just one big happy >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> family, and honestly it's >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> like living on Prozac. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I'd love to be in Italy, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> how did that happen? Where >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> are you Tom? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, Dave -> David wrote: WOW, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> David, thats >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> pretty remarkable. I >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> don't know what your >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> qualifications are (you >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> must be pretty highly >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> qualified), but what you >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> describe is the "one >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> in a million" >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> scenario, you were really >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> in the right place at the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> right time with the right >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> skill set. Most people >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> shoot for a top tier >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> school (in Sweden >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> something like Stockholm >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> International School) and >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> basically spend a lot of >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> effort, time, and money >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> and never get a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> "dream job", >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> especially considering >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> you seem to be getting an >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> above average salary. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Really, what you describe >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> is not very common, and >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> pretty unusual. Some >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> people on this forum are >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> bound to be a little >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> envious (especially with >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the economic recession >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> going on). Really >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> "europe" is >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> seldom a first or early >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> posting for anyone. Most >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> people start in Asia or >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the Middle East and work >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> their way towards western >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> europe or one of the 3 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> "little tigers" >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (Japan, Hong Kong, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Singapore) in Asia. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Education has recruiters >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> or "head >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> hunters" just like >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> any other profession, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> when they use the term >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiter or recruiting >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> agency they usually mean >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Search Associates (SA), >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> or International School >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Services (ISS) as an >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> example. These companies >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> charge teachers a fee to >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> access their job >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> database, and to attend >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> their hiring fairs. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> There's nothing wrong >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> with Daves ESL cafe (or >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> any of the free >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> services), its just very >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> unusual for that caliber >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> of a position to be >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> advertised there. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> If you don't mind >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> answering, are you >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> teaching ESL, or another >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> subject? Is the school an >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> international school >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (private), public school, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> or independent school? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> What grade/age level? I'm >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> sure people are curious. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm in Italy actually, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> and have been to Sweden >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> although it was very >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> briefly. It's cold almost >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> year round. If your into >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the blonde beauty type >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> its the place to be. The >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> food can be >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> "heavy" and a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> bit on the bland side. If >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> your a drinker you will >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> fit in very well. As far >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> as history/touristy >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> things to do its not >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Paris or Rome (I'm >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> referring to Stockholm). >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> The corporate HQ for Ikea >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> is in Sweden. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> What do you mean a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiting agency, like >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> a job fair recruiter? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> The position was posted >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> on Daves ESL cafe just >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> after new years in >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> January and I just sent >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> them my resume and a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> cover letter by email. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> We talk a lot on here >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> about the best way to >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> find, apply and land >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> overseas jobs. I >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> think Sam was asking >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> how did you find out >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> about the position? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Did you apply >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> directly to the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> school or use a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiting agency >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> etc? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I don't understand >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> what you mean? I >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> applied, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> interviewed, and >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the principal >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> offered me the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> position. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, sam wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> how did you get the position? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Hi I don't know >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> if this is the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> right place or >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> not. I was just >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> offered a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> position in >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sweden, and >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> wanted some >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> information on >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary on cost >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> of living. I'm >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> being offered a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary of >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> 28,000 Kroner a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> month, plus >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> relocation >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> expenses >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (flight so far, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> and am >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> negotiating one >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> month salary up >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> front), and the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> state health >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> insurance. I've >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> read that it >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> can be very >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> expensive to >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> live in Sweden? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Does anyone >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> know how this >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary would >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> compare against >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> living in the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> economy? Is it >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> below, above, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> or right at >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> average? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Thanks a bunch for any help.

Feb 25, 2011

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Dave -> School Psyc Ah, so you are Mary's alter ego???, LOL it's good to hear from you. Yes May is coming around time to confirm my application with DODEA again.

How are the economic forces in your state and district going??? I keep hearing on BBC about the Madison teachers in Wisconsin, and how all the public schools are broke.

On 2/25/11, School ...See MoreAh, so you are Mary's alter ego???, LOL it's good to hear from you. Yes May is coming around time to confirm my application with DODEA again.

How are the economic forces in your state and district going??? I keep hearing on BBC about the Madison teachers in Wisconsin, and how all the public schools are broke.

On 2/25/11, School Psyc wrote: > Yes, I am Mary, not her headhunter. > > > On 2/25/11, Dave -> Everyone wrote: >> Does DODEA take over everything??? I'm busy for one week and this is >> what happens. >> >> Dave: (Can i call you Paul?), LOL. I hear where you are coming from. >> I'm single too (well not married no kids, etc) and I know where your >> coming from when you find yourself at a school thats all couples and >> families. I have to say though based on your work description, the >> issue isnt really DoDDS because every teaching job is pretty much as >> you describe. My job in Italy if i wanted to reduce it to bullit >> points would sound the same. The problem for you is when all those >> family people head home thats where they want to be. You on the other >> hand I'm guessing are somewhere in your 20's and you get back to you >> apartment and think do I get on my computer or watch a DVD, and what >> you really want to be doing is heading out to the night life, and quit >> honestly are thinking about getting laid? You might feel your living >> in a senior citizens home, and being a military base where men already >> out number woman 20:1 your feeling a little deprived. I'm guessing in >> South Korea, that your not in Seoul, because if you were you wouldn't >> be "bored". So while your DoDDS job probabley isnt bad, as a realtor >> will tell you the three most important things are "location, location, >> location". My advice is really simple, in your search stick to major >> metro/cosmo cities. In Sweden your talking Stockholm, in Japan Tokyo, >> in China Beijing, Shanghai, Goungzhou, Hong Kong, in the U.K. thats >> London, in France stick with Paris, in Italy Rome's the place to be. >> Lastly, everyone has their deal breakers, and they vary a lot. let me >> ask you IF you had your job somewhere you wanted to be, would you >> still want to leave? >> >> To MS Teacher: I dont think the solution to his problem is to do more >> work in the form of extra curriculars. I'm sorry things are bad back >> in the states I have a lot of friends that are scared out of their >> mind and I get an email every week if I know about any positions. I >> hope you find your eden. >> >> Thomas: Dont confuse me with David, no serious if this forum ever gets >> a moderator I'm voting for you, your just so agreeable. How are things >> going? I had to interview a perspective teacher here, and my kids are >> going nuts over their IB exams coming up. pretty much my week. >> >> School Psyc: Are you Mary's headhunter nowand when did you change your >> name on here? How are things going? >> >> >> On 2/24/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>> And there is nothing wrong with having that perspective and that >>> dream. My wife and I are both teachers and our son has Autism. So >>> DoDDS sounded like a way for us to work overseas and still have a >>> good educational situation for our son. Fortunately, we were able >>> to have all of that without DoDDS, although I would never rule it >>> out for the future. >>> >>> On 2/24/11, MSTeacher wrote: >>>> I never said it was the money. For us, it is about the quality >>>> of life. The opportunity what we could give to our children that >>>> they would not have stateside. Do you know how difficult things >>>> are right now on this side of the world? In Detroit, they are >>>> looking at closing 70 schools and classroom sizes are going to go >>>> up to 60 kids. The state of RI, are looking at cutting 2000 >>>> teaching jobs. Mayor Bloomberg of NYC is looking at cutting >>>> another 6,000 jobs. Did you know that 400,000 teachers lost >>>> their jobs nationwide last year. I don't see it getting any >>>> better. So for my family, DoDDS would be the dream job. >>>> >>>> >>>> On 2/24/11, School Psyc wrote: >>>>> David, thank you for your post. I appreciate your >>>>> honesty. >>>>> >>>>> On 2/24/11, Been there, done that wrote: >>>>>> Why question someone's opinion about Dodds? It's not a >>>>>> dream job. Sure...it's >>>>>> a good job, pays well, has lots of benefits but for >>>>>> many people (like me), it's not about the money. It's >>>>>> about quality of life... enjoying where you are (like >>>>>> Dave and D. Thomas). Why should someone stay where they >>>>>> are just because the money is good? You can make GREAT >>>>>> money teaching in Saudi but I sure would never question >>>>>> your motives if you chose not to teach there! It amazes >>>>>> me how so many posters here think a Dodds job is the >>>>>> end all. There are some down sides...if you have kids, >>>>>> unless they go to school on the economy, they will be >>>>>> going to the Dodds schools, which in many cases, are >>>>>> not so disimilar to inner city schools (sorry if I >>>>>> offend anyone here). I had students who actually moved >>>>>> back stateside because the school in which I taught was >>>>>> so bad. Depending on where you are, medical facilities >>>>>> may not be the best--even if they are--you are last in >>>>>> line behind the soldiers. Say goodbye to being with >>>>>> extended family during holidays, graduations, bar >>>>>> mitvahs, etc... What are you going to do if you don't >>>>>> like the school or the community or the base on which >>>>>> you live? You are kind of stuck--especially if you have >>>>>> decided to make Dodds your career! What if learning a >>>>>> new language isn't as easy as you thought? What if your >>>>>> kids hate it and refuse to acclimate? What if you live >>>>>> in a community that does not particularly care for >>>>>> Americans? There are lots of places that don't want the >>>>>> American presence there. Sure, DoDDs pays well...but it >>>>>> is not for everyone. I enjoyed my stint overseas but >>>>>> have no desire to go back to teaching with Dodds--which >>>>>> is why I read this board because I thought it was about >>>>>> teaching in international schools other than Dodds. >>>>>> >>>>>> On 2/24/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>> Hey, to be fair, David was practically begged for his >>>>>>> opinion/input on DoDDS and purposefully DID NOT lead >>>>>>> with anything negative about DoDDS or post on the DoD >>>>>>> board. I mean come on, it's not like he insulted >>>>>>> someone's religion (or maybe he did). >>>>>>> >>>>>>> Sorry about that Dave. Obviously some people very >>>>>>> strongly about DoDDS being th be all/end all of >>>>>>> possible futures for them and their families. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 2/24/11, MSTeacher wrote: >>>>>>>> Makes me wonder why you don't really think it is a >>>>>>>> dream job. You are living overseas where everything >>>>>>>> is paid for and you can travel. You are under the >>>>>>>> umbrella of the Federal Government which to me >>>>>>>> equals awesome benefits and a pension. I would love >>>>>>>> to know how old you are. I am guessing in your >>>>>>>> twenties where you don't really know about life >>>>>>>> yet. Being single means no responsibilities to >>>>>>>> anyone but yourself. For those of us who have >>>>>>>> families, the opportunity to live overseas with all >>>>>>>> of those benefits and open a world up to our >>>>>>>> children about different cultures is a dream come >>>>>>>> true and is definitely like winning the lottery. If >>>>>>>> the way you are describing your typical day is >>>>>>>> true, then I don't see what is so special about >>>>>>>> your qualifications. Do you lead any extra >>>>>>>> curricular groups? Are involved with anything else >>>>>>>> in the school? Have you taken advantage of >>>>>>>> traveling during the holidays? What is so bad about >>>>>>>> living in S. Korea. I know there are many single >>>>>>>> teachers over there and they are enjoying >>>>>>>> themselves immensely. Well, I guess it is good you >>>>>>>> are leaving because it makes room for someone who >>>>>>>> REALLY wants to work for DoDDS. Good luck to you in >>>>>>>> Sweden! >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>> What's the big obsession with being a DoDDS teacher? >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> I teach middle school science. I don't know what >>>>>>>>> will happen to the position. If I had to guess It >>>>>>>>> will probably be offered to a transfer. There are >>>>>>>>> a bunch of people being displaced in Germany who >>>>>>>>> will be shuffled around. I've read tho DOD board >>>>>>>>> on here and no offense I don't have anything >>>>>>>>> constructive to contribute. I haven't enjoyed my >>>>>>>>> year here in S.K., and all the DOD board seems to >>>>>>>>> be about is getting hired. It's not the dream job >>>>>>>>> everyone seems to think it is, and I'd just be a >>>>>>>>> negative source of information. The hiring >>>>>>>>> process for me was pretty unspectacular, the >>>>>>>>> working conditions here are like they are in any >>>>>>>>> school in the U.S. You wake up, you go to work, >>>>>>>>> you teach your classes, you have lunch, you do >>>>>>>>> reports, you plan/grade, go to meetings, and go >>>>>>>>> home. I don't have a whole lot to add beyond >>>>>>>>> that. >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, School Psyc wrote: >>>>>>>>>> If you don't mind my asking, what position do >>>>>>>>>> you currently hold with DoDDS? Is that a >>>>>>>>>> potential vacancy for next year? We have one >>>>>>>>>> poster whose husband is a middle and high >>>>>>>>>> school science/math teacher hoping to be hired >>>>>>>>>> by DoDDS. >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>> It's a great position to retire from, I >>>>>>>>>>> understand why a lot of people want in. >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> How do you like China? >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>> Wow, David. You are quite the enigma around >>>>>>>>>>>> here. Leaving DoDDS to go into an >>>>>>>>>>>> international teaching position. Many >>>>>>>>>>>> people on this board are still hoping to >>>>>>>>>>>> get in with DoDDS and are considering int'l >>>>>>>>>>>> teaching only as a viable alternative to >>>>>>>>>>>> the lottery like odds of DoDDS employment. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> I'm currently teaching in Beijing and have >>>>>>>>>>>> previously lived and taught in Egpyt and >>>>>>>>>>>> Japan. Our first jobs we got through Search >>>>>>>>>>>> Associates and the next two basically by >>>>>>>>>>>> contacting schools directly. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> We would like to end up in Europe >>>>>>>>>>>> eventually, but are enjoying China and also >>>>>>>>>>>> the chance to pay off bills and save some >>>>>>>>>>>> money. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>> Sorry if I seemed defensive, the message >>>>>>>>>>>>> from Sam just came out of nowhere. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> The school is an independent school that >>>>>>>>>>>>> offers the IB program. I will be teaching >>>>>>>>>>>>> MYP 1 science. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm currently teaching at a DoDDS school >>>>>>>>>>>>> in S.K. and really don't want to wait 2 >>>>>>>>>>>>> more years to MAYBE transfer to Europe, >>>>>>>>>>>>> since people are being transfered out of >>>>>>>>>>>>> Germany because several of our schools >>>>>>>>>>>>> are closing there, it's just going to be >>>>>>>>>>>>> harder. It's really not very fun here, a >>>>>>>>>>>>> lot of people have families here, and I'm >>>>>>>>>>>>> a single guy. I care less about the >>>>>>>>>>>>> salary, security, support, and American >>>>>>>>>>>>> comforts, and more about living life. >>>>>>>>>>>>> Personally, some hot blondes would be >>>>>>>>>>>>> nice. DoDDS schools are very >>>>>>>>>>>>> "family" centered. Everyone has >>>>>>>>>>>>> a family here, service personel, faculty, >>>>>>>>>>>>> staff. It's just one big happy family, >>>>>>>>>>>>> and honestly it's like living on Prozac. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> I'd love to be in Italy, how did that >>>>>>>>>>>>> happen? Where are you Tom? >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, Dave -> David wrote: WOW, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> David, thats >>>>>>>>>>>>>> pretty remarkable. I don't know what >>>>>>>>>>>>>> your qualifications are (you must be >>>>>>>>>>>>>> pretty highly qualified), but what you >>>>>>>>>>>>>> describe is the "one in a >>>>>>>>>>>>>> million" scenario, you were really >>>>>>>>>>>>>> in the right place at the right time >>>>>>>>>>>>>> with the right skill set. Most people >>>>>>>>>>>>>> shoot for a top tier school (in Sweden >>>>>>>>>>>>>> something like Stockholm International >>>>>>>>>>>>>> School) and basically spend a lot of >>>>>>>>>>>>>> effort, time, and money and never get a >>>>>>>>>>>>>> "dream job", especially >>>>>>>>>>>>>> considering you seem to be getting an >>>>>>>>>>>>>> above average salary. Really, what you >>>>>>>>>>>>>> describe is not very common, and pretty >>>>>>>>>>>>>> unusual. Some people on this forum are >>>>>>>>>>>>>> bound to be a little envious >>>>>>>>>>>>>> (especially with the economic recession >>>>>>>>>>>>>> going on). Really "europe" is >>>>>>>>>>>>>> seldom a first or early posting for >>>>>>>>>>>>>> anyone. Most people start in Asia or >>>>>>>>>>>>>> the Middle East and work their way >>>>>>>>>>>>>> towards western europe or one of the 3 >>>>>>>>>>>>>> "little tigers" (Japan, Hong >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Kong, Singapore) in Asia. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Education has recruiters or "head >>>>>>>>>>>>>> hunters" just like any other >>>>>>>>>>>>>> profession, when they use the term >>>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiter or recruiting agency they >>>>>>>>>>>>>> usually mean Search Associates (SA), or >>>>>>>>>>>>>> International School Services (ISS) as >>>>>>>>>>>>>> an example. These companies charge >>>>>>>>>>>>>> teachers a fee to access their job >>>>>>>>>>>>>> database, and to attend their hiring >>>>>>>>>>>>>> fairs. There's nothing wrong with Daves >>>>>>>>>>>>>> ESL cafe (or any of the free services), >>>>>>>>>>>>>> its just very unusual for that caliber >>>>>>>>>>>>>> of a position to be advertised there. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> If you don't mind answering, are you >>>>>>>>>>>>>> teaching ESL, or another subject? Is >>>>>>>>>>>>>> the school an international school >>>>>>>>>>>>>> (private), public school, or >>>>>>>>>>>>>> independent school? What grade/age >>>>>>>>>>>>>> level? I'm sure people are curious. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm in Italy actually, and have been to >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sweden although it was very briefly. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> It's cold almost year round. If your >>>>>>>>>>>>>> into the blonde beauty type its the >>>>>>>>>>>>>> place to be. The food can be >>>>>>>>>>>>>> "heavy" and a bit on the >>>>>>>>>>>>>> bland side. If your a drinker you will >>>>>>>>>>>>>> fit in very well. As far as >>>>>>>>>>>>>> history/touristy things to do its not >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Paris or Rome (I'm referring to >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Stockholm). The corporate HQ for Ikea >>>>>>>>>>>>>> is in Sweden. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> What do you mean a recruiting agency, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> like a job fair recruiter? The >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> position was posted on Daves ESL cafe >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just after new years in January and I >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just sent them my resume and a cover >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> letter by email. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> We talk a lot on here about the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> best way to find, apply and land >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> overseas jobs. I think Sam was >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> asking how did you find out about >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the position? Did you apply >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> directly to the school or use a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiting agency etc? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I don't understand what you mean? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I applied, interviewed, and the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> principal offered me the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> position. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, sam wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> how did you get the position? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Hi I don't know if this is >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the right place or not. I was >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just offered a position in >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sweden, and wanted some >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> information on salary on cost >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> of living. I'm being offered >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> a salary of 28,000 Kroner a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> month, plus relocation >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> expenses (flight so far, and >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> am negotiating one month >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary up front), and the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> state health insurance. I've >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> read that it can be very >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> expensive to live in Sweden? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Does anyone know how this >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary would compare against >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> living in the economy? Is it >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> below, above, or right at >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> average? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Thanks a bunch for any help.

Feb 25, 2011

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School Psyc I don't think we will be losing school psyc positions and if we do, one will be moving out of the area. I wouldn't expect us to lose more than one position, but you never know.

On 2/25/11, Dave -> School Psyc wrote: > Ah, so you are Mary's alter ego???, LOL it's good to hear from you. Yes May > is coming around time to confirm my ...See MoreI don't think we will be losing school psyc positions and if we do, one will be moving out of the area. I wouldn't expect us to lose more than one position, but you never know.

On 2/25/11, Dave -> School Psyc wrote: > Ah, so you are Mary's alter ego???, LOL it's good to hear from you. Yes May > is coming around time to confirm my application with DODEA again. > > How are the economic forces in your state and district going??? I keep > hearing on BBC about the Madison teachers in Wisconsin, and how all the > public schools are broke. > > > On 2/25/11, School Psyc wrote: >> Yes, I am Mary, not her headhunter. >> >> >> On 2/25/11, Dave -> Everyone wrote: >>> Does DODEA take over everything??? I'm busy for one week and this is >>> what happens. >>> >>> Dave: (Can i call you Paul?), LOL. I hear where you are coming from. >>> I'm single too (well not married no kids, etc) and I know where your >>> coming from when you find yourself at a school thats all couples and >>> families. I have to say though based on your work description, the >>> issue isnt really DoDDS because every teaching job is pretty much as >>> you describe. My job in Italy if i wanted to reduce it to bullit >>> points would sound the same. The problem for you is when all those >>> family people head home thats where they want to be. You on the other >>> hand I'm guessing are somewhere in your 20's and you get back to you >>> apartment and think do I get on my computer or watch a DVD, and what >>> you really want to be doing is heading out to the night life, and quit >>> honestly are thinking about getting laid? You might feel your living >>> in a senior citizens home, and being a military base where men already >>> out number woman 20:1 your feeling a little deprived. I'm guessing in >>> South Korea, that your not in Seoul, because if you were you wouldn't >>> be "bored". So while your DoDDS job probabley isnt bad, as a realtor >>> will tell you the three most important things are "location, location, >>> location". My advice is really simple, in your search stick to major >>> metro/cosmo cities. In Sweden your talking Stockholm, in Japan Tokyo, >>> in China Beijing, Shanghai, Goungzhou, Hong Kong, in the U.K. thats >>> London, in France stick with Paris, in Italy Rome's the place to be. >>> Lastly, everyone has their deal breakers, and they vary a lot. let me >>> ask you IF you had your job somewhere you wanted to be, would you >>> still want to leave? >>> >>> To MS Teacher: I dont think the solution to his problem is to do more >>> work in the form of extra curriculars. I'm sorry things are bad back >>> in the states I have a lot of friends that are scared out of their >>> mind and I get an email every week if I know about any positions. I >>> hope you find your eden. >>> >>> Thomas: Dont confuse me with David, no serious if this forum ever gets >>> a moderator I'm voting for you, your just so agreeable. How are things >>> going? I had to interview a perspective teacher here, and my kids are >>> going nuts over their IB exams coming up. pretty much my week. >>> >>> School Psyc: Are you Mary's headhunter nowand when did you change your >>> name on here? How are things going? >>> >>> >>> On 2/24/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>> And there is nothing wrong with having that perspective and that >>>> dream. My wife and I are both teachers and our son has Autism. So >>>> DoDDS sounded like a way for us to work overseas and still have a >>>> good educational situation for our son. Fortunately, we were able >>>> to have all of that without DoDDS, although I would never rule it >>>> out for the future. >>>> >>>> On 2/24/11, MSTeacher wrote: >>>>> I never said it was the money. For us, it is about the quality >>>>> of life. The opportunity what we could give to our children that >>>>> they would not have stateside. Do you know how difficult things >>>>> are right now on this side of the world? In Detroit, they are >>>>> looking at closing 70 schools and classroom sizes are going to go >>>>> up to 60 kids. The state of RI, are looking at cutting 2000 >>>>> teaching jobs. Mayor Bloomberg of NYC is looking at cutting >>>>> another 6,000 jobs. Did you know that 400,000 teachers lost >>>>> their jobs nationwide last year. I don't see it getting any >>>>> better. So for my family, DoDDS would be the dream job. >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> On 2/24/11, School Psyc wrote: >>>>>> David, thank you for your post. I appreciate your >>>>>> honesty. >>>>>> >>>>>> On 2/24/11, Been there, done that wrote: >>>>>>> Why question someone's opinion about Dodds? It's not a >>>>>>> dream job. Sure...it's >>>>>>> a good job, pays well, has lots of benefits but for >>>>>>> many people (like me), it's not about the money. It's >>>>>>> about quality of life... enjoying where you are (like >>>>>>> Dave and D. Thomas). Why should someone stay where they >>>>>>> are just because the money is good? You can make GREAT >>>>>>> money teaching in Saudi but I sure would never question >>>>>>> your motives if you chose not to teach there! It amazes >>>>>>> me how so many posters here think a Dodds job is the >>>>>>> end all. There are some down sides...if you have kids, >>>>>>> unless they go to school on the economy, they will be >>>>>>> going to the Dodds schools, which in many cases, are >>>>>>> not so disimilar to inner city schools (sorry if I >>>>>>> offend anyone here). I had students who actually moved >>>>>>> back stateside because the school in which I taught was >>>>>>> so bad. Depending on where you are, medical facilities >>>>>>> may not be the best--even if they are--you are last in >>>>>>> line behind the soldiers. Say goodbye to being with >>>>>>> extended family during holidays, graduations, bar >>>>>>> mitvahs, etc... What are you going to do if you don't >>>>>>> like the school or the community or the base on which >>>>>>> you live? You are kind of stuck--especially if you have >>>>>>> decided to make Dodds your career! What if learning a >>>>>>> new language isn't as easy as you thought? What if your >>>>>>> kids hate it and refuse to acclimate? What if you live >>>>>>> in a community that does not particularly care for >>>>>>> Americans? There are lots of places that don't want the >>>>>>> American presence there. Sure, DoDDs pays well...but it >>>>>>> is not for everyone. I enjoyed my stint overseas but >>>>>>> have no desire to go back to teaching with Dodds--which >>>>>>> is why I read this board because I thought it was about >>>>>>> teaching in international schools other than Dodds. >>>>>>> >>>>>>> On 2/24/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>> Hey, to be fair, David was practically begged for his >>>>>>>> opinion/input on DoDDS and purposefully DID NOT lead >>>>>>>> with anything negative about DoDDS or post on the DoD >>>>>>>> board. I mean come on, it's not like he insulted >>>>>>>> someone's religion (or maybe he did). >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> Sorry about that Dave. Obviously some people very >>>>>>>> strongly about DoDDS being th be all/end all of >>>>>>>> possible futures for them and their families. >>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> On 2/24/11, MSTeacher wrote: >>>>>>>>> Makes me wonder why you don't really think it is a >>>>>>>>> dream job. You are living overseas where everything >>>>>>>>> is paid for and you can travel. You are under the >>>>>>>>> umbrella of the Federal Government which to me >>>>>>>>> equals awesome benefits and a pension. I would love >>>>>>>>> to know how old you are. I am guessing in your >>>>>>>>> twenties where you don't really know about life >>>>>>>>> yet. Being single means no responsibilities to >>>>>>>>> anyone but yourself. For those of us who have >>>>>>>>> families, the opportunity to live overseas with all >>>>>>>>> of those benefits and open a world up to our >>>>>>>>> children about different cultures is a dream come >>>>>>>>> true and is definitely like winning the lottery. If >>>>>>>>> the way you are describing your typical day is >>>>>>>>> true, then I don't see what is so special about >>>>>>>>> your qualifications. Do you lead any extra >>>>>>>>> curricular groups? Are involved with anything else >>>>>>>>> in the school? Have you taken advantage of >>>>>>>>> traveling during the holidays? What is so bad about >>>>>>>>> living in S. Korea. I know there are many single >>>>>>>>> teachers over there and they are enjoying >>>>>>>>> themselves immensely. Well, I guess it is good you >>>>>>>>> are leaving because it makes room for someone who >>>>>>>>> REALLY wants to work for DoDDS. Good luck to you in >>>>>>>>> Sweden! >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>> What's the big obsession with being a DoDDS teacher? >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> I teach middle school science. I don't know what >>>>>>>>>> will happen to the position. If I had to guess It >>>>>>>>>> will probably be offered to a transfer. There are >>>>>>>>>> a bunch of people being displaced in Germany who >>>>>>>>>> will be shuffled around. I've read tho DOD board >>>>>>>>>> on here and no offense I don't have anything >>>>>>>>>> constructive to contribute. I haven't enjoyed my >>>>>>>>>> year here in S.K., and all the DOD board seems to >>>>>>>>>> be about is getting hired. It's not the dream job >>>>>>>>>> everyone seems to think it is, and I'd just be a >>>>>>>>>> negative source of information. The hiring >>>>>>>>>> process for me was pretty unspectacular, the >>>>>>>>>> working conditions here are like they are in any >>>>>>>>>> school in the U.S. You wake up, you go to work, >>>>>>>>>> you teach your classes, you have lunch, you do >>>>>>>>>> reports, you plan/grade, go to meetings, and go >>>>>>>>>> home. I don't have a whole lot to add beyond >>>>>>>>>> that. >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, School Psyc wrote: >>>>>>>>>>> If you don't mind my asking, what position do >>>>>>>>>>> you currently hold with DoDDS? Is that a >>>>>>>>>>> potential vacancy for next year? We have one >>>>>>>>>>> poster whose husband is a middle and high >>>>>>>>>>> school science/math teacher hoping to be hired >>>>>>>>>>> by DoDDS. >>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>> It's a great position to retire from, I >>>>>>>>>>>> understand why a lot of people want in. >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> How do you like China? >>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>> Wow, David. You are quite the enigma around >>>>>>>>>>>>> here. Leaving DoDDS to go into an >>>>>>>>>>>>> international teaching position. Many >>>>>>>>>>>>> people on this board are still hoping to >>>>>>>>>>>>> get in with DoDDS and are considering int'l >>>>>>>>>>>>> teaching only as a viable alternative to >>>>>>>>>>>>> the lottery like odds of DoDDS employment. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm currently teaching in Beijing and have >>>>>>>>>>>>> previously lived and taught in Egpyt and >>>>>>>>>>>>> Japan. Our first jobs we got through Search >>>>>>>>>>>>> Associates and the next two basically by >>>>>>>>>>>>> contacting schools directly. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> We would like to end up in Europe >>>>>>>>>>>>> eventually, but are enjoying China and also >>>>>>>>>>>>> the chance to pay off bills and save some >>>>>>>>>>>>> money. >>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sorry if I seemed defensive, the message >>>>>>>>>>>>>> from Sam just came out of nowhere. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> The school is an independent school that >>>>>>>>>>>>>> offers the IB program. I will be teaching >>>>>>>>>>>>>> MYP 1 science. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm currently teaching at a DoDDS school >>>>>>>>>>>>>> in S.K. and really don't want to wait 2 >>>>>>>>>>>>>> more years to MAYBE transfer to Europe, >>>>>>>>>>>>>> since people are being transfered out of >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Germany because several of our schools >>>>>>>>>>>>>> are closing there, it's just going to be >>>>>>>>>>>>>> harder. It's really not very fun here, a >>>>>>>>>>>>>> lot of people have families here, and I'm >>>>>>>>>>>>>> a single guy. I care less about the >>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary, security, support, and American >>>>>>>>>>>>>> comforts, and more about living life. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> Personally, some hot blondes would be >>>>>>>>>>>>>> nice. DoDDS schools are very >>>>>>>>>>>>>> "family" centered. Everyone has >>>>>>>>>>>>>> a family here, service personel, faculty, >>>>>>>>>>>>>> staff. It's just one big happy family, >>>>>>>>>>>>>> and honestly it's like living on Prozac. >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> I'd love to be in Italy, how did that >>>>>>>>>>>>>> happen? Where are you Tom? >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, Dave -> David wrote: WOW, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> David, thats >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> pretty remarkable. I don't know what >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> your qualifications are (you must be >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> pretty highly qualified), but what you >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> describe is the "one in a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> million" scenario, you were really >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> in the right place at the right time >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> with the right skill set. Most people >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> shoot for a top tier school (in Sweden >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> something like Stockholm International >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> School) and basically spend a lot of >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> effort, time, and money and never get a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> "dream job", especially >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> considering you seem to be getting an >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> above average salary. Really, what you >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> describe is not very common, and pretty >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> unusual. Some people on this forum are >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> bound to be a little envious >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (especially with the economic recession >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> going on). Really "europe" is >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> seldom a first or early posting for >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> anyone. Most people start in Asia or >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the Middle East and work their way >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> towards western europe or one of the 3 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> "little tigers" (Japan, Hong >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Kong, Singapore) in Asia. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Education has recruiters or "head >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> hunters" just like any other >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> profession, when they use the term >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiter or recruiting agency they >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> usually mean Search Associates (SA), or >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> International School Services (ISS) as >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> an example. These companies charge >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> teachers a fee to access their job >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> database, and to attend their hiring >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> fairs. There's nothing wrong with Daves >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> ESL cafe (or any of the free services), >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> its just very unusual for that caliber >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> of a position to be advertised there. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> If you don't mind answering, are you >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> teaching ESL, or another subject? Is >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the school an international school >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> (private), public school, or >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> independent school? What grade/age >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> level? I'm sure people are curious. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I'm in Italy actually, and have been to >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sweden although it was very briefly. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> It's cold almost year round. If your >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> into the blonde beauty type its the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> place to be. The food can be >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> "heavy" and a bit on the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> bland side. If your a drinker you will >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> fit in very well. As far as >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> history/touristy things to do its not >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Paris or Rome (I'm referring to >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Stockholm). The corporate HQ for Ikea >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> is in Sweden. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/23/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> What do you mean a recruiting agency, >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> like a job fair recruiter? The >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> position was posted on Daves ESL cafe >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just after new years in January and I >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just sent them my resume and a cover >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> letter by email. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, D. Thomas wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> We talk a lot on here about the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> best way to find, apply and land >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> overseas jobs. I think Sam was >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> asking how did you find out about >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the position? Did you apply >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> directly to the school or use a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> recruiting agency etc? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I don't understand what you mean? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I applied, interviewed, and the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> principal offered me the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> position. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, sam wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> how did you get the position? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> On 2/22/11, David wrote: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Hi I don't know if this is >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the right place or not. I was >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> just offered a position in >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Sweden, and wanted some >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> information on salary on cost >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> of living. I'm being offered >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> a salary of 28,000 Kroner a >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> month, plus relocation >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> expenses (flight so far, and >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> am negotiating one month >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary up front), and the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> state health insurance. I've >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> read that it can be very >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> expensive to live in Sweden? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Does anyone know how this >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> salary would compare against >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> living in the economy? Is it >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> below, above, or right at >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> average? >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Thanks a bunch for any help.

Feb 25, 2011

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