Considering a Return to Indonesia

[Joko MacKenna]

Hi there.

I first fell in love with Indonesia in '86/87 while studying as a high school exchange student in Jakarta. Not really having the opportunity to see the country as much as I'd like, I returned in 90'/91', again studying abroad at UGM in Yogya and IKIP Malang.

In the 20 years since, life has happened. I've worked in lots of different settings, but some recent changes at my employer have me pining for a big move. Back to Indonesia, I'm thinking. I know I'd be proficient at teaching English and have been exploring schools to earn my CTEFL.

I'm joining this forum to gleam whatever advice or suggestions I can find for someone whose still a "pat" and looking to become an expat.

Regards,
"Joko"

[Hombre de Maiz]

Well, the country is no longer under Suharto. For some, the country is worse off for it. My wife left Jakarta in the 90s. When she returned she could no longer bear to live there.

I'm actually looking to move out after a decade-plus here. Were I single and adventurous, I'd head to Myanmar and see what I could drum up there.

[Abook looty]

You're going to be a scrap landmines merchants, Homs? There's plnty of oil and gold too at Myanmar

[lantern]

Back to Indonesia, I'm thinking. I know I'd be proficient at teaching English and have been exploring schools to earn my CTEFL.

Do some further research here on the subject of teaching English as a degree in English is now required plus experience.

[Joko MacKenna]

Do some further research here on the subject of teaching English as a degree in English is now required plus experience.

Please forgive me if I'm mistaken, but from my research so far, it seems that the requirements to teach at an established ESL school for a native English speaker now include a 4 year degree (mine happens to be in sociology) and a CTEFL. I didn't find anywhere that required one's degree specifically be in English. That said, I do have minors in creative writing and Asian studies. Saya bisa bicara Bahasa Indonesia juga. I'm hoping those factors, along with my long professional history will make me an attractive candidate for a good position.

LOL! Sounds like I'm already working on my cover letter.

[lantern]

I'm hoping those factors, along with my long professional history will make me an attractive candidate for a good position.

Others can chime in but, as far as I understand, the English degree may be a requirement for the work visa and has nothing to do with you being an attractive candidate for a teaching position.