Curiosity...

Hiya.

I'm super interested in ancient chinese culture and history. I have read so much about it. Even more interested in Japanese culture and history!!

Not a problem.  Sorry it's kind of long and not quite just one tip... lol

That's perfect - thanks very much Kiki!

(continued....)  And the biggest thing to always remember is always believe you'll find something. Your first or second TEFL job might not be the paradise you wanted to start in, but if you don't give up, you'll get to your dream destination.  I didn't want to teach in Ukraine, but I couldn't find work in Serbia.  I took the next best thing. I know that my time in Ukraine will pave my way for getting a job in Serbia after my contract is over.  So just remember that you'll always end up where you want to, but sometimes you have to take a different path than you intend.

Tips:  Since you're digging on your own... never give up the search.  Realize it's not always roses and it's much harder to do on your own than to get someone else, but it's much more rewarding knowing you are the one who busted your ass to get where you are.  When you're searching jobs delve into the darkened depths of the internet, using every search phrase or keyword possible for the locations you want.  If you know the native language, search using it also.  You'll usually find more results.  If you have friends in that country, have them ask around about certain language schools.  If you don't know anyone, then stick to researching on forums and google in general.  Email, email, email.  Email a basic letter with a CV and cover letter.  Make sure the cover letter stands out.  You never know how many they will look at.  But don't lie.. They will figure it out.  Just let them know you're determined and passionate about your work. Do as much research about the companies as possible.  Use google, forums, facebook.. anything and everything.  I had a hit from a Kuwaiti school and loved the school's website, school even wrote me back, but when I googled the school to find more out I read nothing about blog and forum page after forum page about all this HORRIBLE things like teachers being threatened and such... make sure you find that out before you start getting emails. ;)

Yeah, that'd be great, or you can whack it on here - whichever!

Look forward to seeing what you come up with!

Do you want them private messaged to you for ease of location?

Yeah no probs - whenever you get a chance :)

I have them written down ... just let me do some uni homework and I'll post them in a bit. That okay?

Sounds cool - you'll have to keep us posted on all the Ukrani myths and legends you learn while you're there!

Oh, meant to ask, did you get a chance to come up with a quick job-hunting tip for me?

For me, I've always been one to study mythology.  I love it. I love seeing how certain myths and superstitions and the ways of their ancestors shape who they are today.  In Slavic countries, it is really prominent.  Definitely here in Serbia, for sure.  We will see about Ukraine once I'm there for a while.

When I headed to China, I didn't really give it a second thought, but got really into it while I was there - how about you?