BY: Zoe Melnyk

So you’ve graduated with a wonderful degree in a major that you’re passionate about that has absolutely no “real world” qualifications for a job, let alone a career.

You couldn’t help it, having a major in Latin was just calling your name and the thought of selling your soul by getting a practical degree made you physically ill.

But here you are and the years of condescending comments about your chosen path are starting to catch up to you as the bills roll in and the job postings for Latin tutors run increasingly low.

Well, the future might not be as dreary as your nosey conservative family fears. There is an opportunity for students of any bachelor degree, and it involves travelling practically anywhere around the world while making a pretty penny.

Teach English.

It seems like a catch, but it really is that simple.

English is valued across the globe, and if you’re lucky enough to be a native speaker, you’re in high demand to teach it.

A love of travel and discovering new territory is a given qualification, but don’t forget you’ll also have to be willing to work with children of all age groups and have a dedication to teaching.

Southeast Asia

While it’s up for debate, Southeast Asia is arguably the highest in demand for English teachers. Some countries looking for your help include:

• South Korea
• Thailand
• Taiwan
• China
• Japan

Now, this seems rather extreme. However, with some research, you’ll find that Southeast Asia has some remarkably safe areas and that most English teachers cherish their time on the other side of the world.

Several teachers have even taken to blogging about their experience, including Michigan native Nathaniel Magyar. His blog about teaching in South Korea, Korealizations, goes in depth about his experiences moving across the world and how he adapted to an entirely different culture.

“I was drawn to South Korea because I’d never been to Asia, and I was fascinated by the country’s history, culture, food and language, which is much easier for English speakers to learn than Chinese or Japanese.”

While some countries in this area require TEFL training, which can be easily attained online, there are other options that don’t require formal training, including Korea Global Connections, which provides each teacher training through the program.

Central and South America

For those of you who dream of climbing Machu Picchu or are just plain fascinated with South American culture, there’s a wide range of countries looking for English teachers:

• Mexico
• Costa Rica
• Peru
• Chile

Teachers in South America may not have the same compensation for their work as the rest of the world; however, there is still the opportunity to travel through the most remarkable travel destinations in the world while helping educate citizens and help, in part, to build a better society.

Almost all paid teaching positions in Central and South America require TEFL training, but placement websites are in place to help potential teachers find the ideal location.

Europe

Ah yes, Europe. The Holy Grail for historic breath-taking destinations and endless must-see monuments. Even here, countries are interested in attracting English teachers including places such as:

• Italy
• Czech Republic
• Spain
• Austria
• France

Much like Southeast Asia, most programs require TEFL certification, however, there are programs listed that provide training including Language Corps in Italy and North American Language and Culture Assistants in Spain.