I should probably write entries as things happen, or at least make a list of what to write about later, because time goes by and I completely forget about what That Moment was like.
I did have my first experience of American food in Korea. Near the training center was a McDonalds, and I went with one guy (Andrew, actually - he seems to feature in the adventure that was training). I was really curious as to how they serve American food, as I know that we tend to botch dishes from other cultures (New York style Chinese - that's all I have to say ;)). I had a bulgogi burger, which was a lot like moist pork. Definitely something that is missing from the Mickey's menu in America. It smelled just as bad as American McDonald's though. The other days, I stuck to the kimbop and dumplings place a few blocks down.
The rest of training was a blur. Tuesday night was definitely the worst (well, not counting my breakdown on Thursday night, but thanks to people named Andrew and Ed, it didn't end in tragedy (tragedy in this case being failing training and having to move back to America - yes, I know there are worse things)). Wednesday night, we went through this huge moment of "Screw it," and went to Lotte Mart for Korean bbq supplies. That was the first night I've actually made it to dinner - usually, I was either too busy or done with food for the day. I think all training groups go through that - the first night of complete anxiety because we have no clue what to prep, and then the second night of going, "Eh, we got this".
Fortunately, a group of April teachers cornered their trainer who admitted that unless Chungdahm had a Talk with you, you were in good shape to pass - bar any instances of showing up to final mock day inebriated, or just saying, "Yeah, I didn't prep this - let's talk about bunnies". I imagine that this moment involved a dark corner and boards with nails driven through - if I'm wrong, please don't correct me.
For those who are coming to Chungdahm later this year: the last day just involves being tested on a few class schedules they give you on the last day, and mock teaching the lessons you've been mock teaching all week. Pretty much, I think they're just looking to see if you've learned anything. I'll reassure you now, if you make a huge mistake (like if you do something like not prep the in-class quiz for answer justification.........no, that wasn't me at all ;)) but pretty much show that you have improved from your worst moments earlier in the week, you've got it. The fine-tuning is something that'll happen at your actual school - I've already been over with my Head Instructor the things I need to work on, and from what I've gotten from my coworkers, everyone pretty much sucks their first week, but it's easy to pick up on the stuff and improve.
The actual contract signing was very anti-climactic. My Chungdahm recruiter (who is different from my Aclipse recruiter) sat me down and asked how I thought training went. I was pretty honest (I even said that I wish Aclipse knew more about the training materials so I was better prepared - a small shoutout to Sean :)). Pretty much, I signed the same contract that they issued a month ago, and was told that my taxi would be there in 40 mins. We were all busy signing contracts during that last hour, so there was really no big goodbye.... I was actually the first one to realize it was time to leave..
Long cab ride later, and.....Suji.
Unlike previous promises of annotated picture posts, my day one in Suji post will actually come soon..
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Monday, January 25, 2010
"Eat My Foot, Fish!"
Day one of training brought together sixteen of us! I had no clue there were this many CDI teachers in the hotel - I guess we're all just really good at hiding from each other. Training was short - just an introduction to how the rest of training will go, and the taking of The Big Scary Test. Totally passed - despite my panic attack when I realized that I hadn't studied *anything* about the history. Definitely don't blow off that part! The reading portion made me realize why my students hate the FCAT so much - the questions do seem "trick" and you're constantly second guessing yourself. My test looked like a weather map when I was done with all of the circles and arrows all over the place.
That first day is also the day trainees go to the health center for screening. Whomever told me that they didn't have to give blood - well, that has definitely changed! They have an awesome system at the center: there are color coded lines on the floor, and you follow one of the lines to your respective part of the hospital. It made getting lost insanely hard (I still managed to do it, but just once...you know, as opposed to each time I had to go to a different station). I won't call him out too much in this blog, but if you're in my training group - all I've got to say is, Brian with his sample cup. ;)
Typed like a madwoman to get to this part. We all went out to lunch (more like "linner" as it was so late) with each other afterwards. A native Korean in our group took us to this Bibimbap place. I think the waiter was insanely relieved to know that a few in the group did speak Korean (I've given up for now - I'm way too overwhelmed with all of the newness). The food here keeps getting better. Not only do they really showcase the flavors to their best advantage, but also the presentation is so nice. The mushroom and bulgogi dish that I got came in this bowl where all of the different vegetables were arranged like a color wheel with the meat in this neat little circle in the center. Didn't get a picture - at that point, I wasn't comfortable enough with the group to admit that I am definitely *that person* who wants to photograph everything ;)
Afterward, eight of us went to see Dr. Fish. If you're also stalking my gallery, this is where I brought out the camera. The coffee was just as overpriced as in America, but "the rest" ;) was just 2000 won (equivalent of $2). After coffee and a long wait, we were taken up to this platform, washed our feet, and then stuck them into the best foot spa EVER. Well, I make that sound much less eventful than it actually was: after washing their feet, the guys stuck theirs right in - the girls, however, sat for a bit in this awkward position with our feet poised above the water as if we were never going to see our feet again.
Imagine those old gangster movies in which a body is dangled above a piranha tank - the fish swarm around, gnashing at each other as they wait for their meal. Well, replace those scary piranha with a bunch of fish that looked like minnows' relatives, and that's about what it was like. Yes, we were afraid of minnows - I'll say it =p. After sticking in our feet with some awesome facial expressions (totally captured Lydia's and Steve's on camera), these tiny doctor fish swarm around and chow down on all of the dead skin. They were like monsters - and definitely couldn't get enough of our nasty heel crusts. I experienced both tanks and definitely liked the one with a ton of tiny fish better than the one with the bigger fish - the tickling sensation was more pleasant than "ahhh!!". Anna, you will be glad to know that afterwards, we did wash our feet again and treat them with an anti-bacterial rub. For the rest of the night, we were all so incredibly aware of our feet. Totally doing this again :)
That first day is also the day trainees go to the health center for screening. Whomever told me that they didn't have to give blood - well, that has definitely changed! They have an awesome system at the center: there are color coded lines on the floor, and you follow one of the lines to your respective part of the hospital. It made getting lost insanely hard (I still managed to do it, but just once...you know, as opposed to each time I had to go to a different station). I won't call him out too much in this blog, but if you're in my training group - all I've got to say is, Brian with his sample cup. ;)
Typed like a madwoman to get to this part. We all went out to lunch (more like "linner" as it was so late) with each other afterwards. A native Korean in our group took us to this Bibimbap place. I think the waiter was insanely relieved to know that a few in the group did speak Korean (I've given up for now - I'm way too overwhelmed with all of the newness). The food here keeps getting better. Not only do they really showcase the flavors to their best advantage, but also the presentation is so nice. The mushroom and bulgogi dish that I got came in this bowl where all of the different vegetables were arranged like a color wheel with the meat in this neat little circle in the center. Didn't get a picture - at that point, I wasn't comfortable enough with the group to admit that I am definitely *that person* who wants to photograph everything ;)
Afterward, eight of us went to see Dr. Fish. If you're also stalking my gallery, this is where I brought out the camera. The coffee was just as overpriced as in America, but "the rest" ;) was just 2000 won (equivalent of $2). After coffee and a long wait, we were taken up to this platform, washed our feet, and then stuck them into the best foot spa EVER. Well, I make that sound much less eventful than it actually was: after washing their feet, the guys stuck theirs right in - the girls, however, sat for a bit in this awkward position with our feet poised above the water as if we were never going to see our feet again.
Imagine those old gangster movies in which a body is dangled above a piranha tank - the fish swarm around, gnashing at each other as they wait for their meal. Well, replace those scary piranha with a bunch of fish that looked like minnows' relatives, and that's about what it was like. Yes, we were afraid of minnows - I'll say it =p. After sticking in our feet with some awesome facial expressions (totally captured Lydia's and Steve's on camera), these tiny doctor fish swarm around and chow down on all of the dead skin. They were like monsters - and definitely couldn't get enough of our nasty heel crusts. I experienced both tanks and definitely liked the one with a ton of tiny fish better than the one with the bigger fish - the tickling sensation was more pleasant than "ahhh!!". Anna, you will be glad to know that afterwards, we did wash our feet again and treat them with an anti-bacterial rub. For the rest of the night, we were all so incredibly aware of our feet. Totally doing this again :)
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Fashion / Hello From Home
Everyone who advised to bring trendy clothes were so right: Korean ladies are so freaking chic. Walking around here is like being treated to a constant fashion plate - with as efficient as these people are, I'm so not surprised that the girls get up an hour early to be sure they look slammin' on the streets. Their hair is always perfect, and Korean ladies have the most beautiful shoes. The guys are pretty trendy, too - especially with their haircuts. Totally puts a shame to the way American guys style their hair: either clippers, or totally forget to use the scissors/soap period..
Someone on the Aclipse forum made a pretty snooty comment about how Korean women don't wear purple. Being the snot that I am, I'm keeping tally, and have officially reached the double digits. These women totally rock the purple - which they should, with their pretty white skin and dark hair. Wearing purple today to Training, Day 1 just to savor the moment.
I've been digging to the bottom of my suitcase each day to find my trendiest looking clothing so I "fit in" as well as I can with my short haircut and completely un-Asian features. Saturday was this cute little red dress with black leggings and boots; yesterday, I completely rebelled against the whole dark-clothing thing and wore blue jeans and a white sweater. At one point last night, I stood up and one of the rocks from my windowsill back home fell out of my shirt. It was awesome - like a little "Hello!" from home, or a bit of good luck for today's tests. The rock is now sitting on my bedside table, and I think it's going to spend training in my pocket.
Someone on the Aclipse forum made a pretty snooty comment about how Korean women don't wear purple. Being the snot that I am, I'm keeping tally, and have officially reached the double digits. These women totally rock the purple - which they should, with their pretty white skin and dark hair. Wearing purple today to Training, Day 1 just to savor the moment.
I've been digging to the bottom of my suitcase each day to find my trendiest looking clothing so I "fit in" as well as I can with my short haircut and completely un-Asian features. Saturday was this cute little red dress with black leggings and boots; yesterday, I completely rebelled against the whole dark-clothing thing and wore blue jeans and a white sweater. At one point last night, I stood up and one of the rocks from my windowsill back home fell out of my shirt. It was awesome - like a little "Hello!" from home, or a bit of good luck for today's tests. The rock is now sitting on my bedside table, and I think it's going to spend training in my pocket.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
I've Survived....So Far..
Hello from Seoul, South Korea! Unlike previously feared, I am not the only person in training. To borrow words from a fellow trainee, we are the most mismatched, eclectic group of people, but somehow it works. My hotel roommate is from Canada, and we've bonded over Degrassi and their awesome healthcare system. The two boys are both from the northeast and have bonded over the supporting opposing baseball teams. My only experience with northeastern baseball is the episode of Sex and the City in which Carrie dated the "new Yankee". But I think I'll keep that contribution to myself.
We'll get the obvious out of the way: Seoul is GIGANTIC. It is also insanely quiet and very clean for a city of this size - which I'm sure is due not only to the diligent street workers, but also the general politeness of the people...I bet Koreans just don't litter. I still haven't figured out the whole politeness/insane road rage connection with Koreans, but am sure it must relate to the whole big-city life. I think what makes traffic work in Korea is that after they get cut off by someone, or almost rear end another, they move on and don't hold a grudge. This would never happen in America - we're famous for following people back to their houses and letting them know just how much we don't appreciate their changing lanes without signaling. If Americans drove like Koreans, there would be many many more vehicular homicides.
One of my training buddies became an exploring buddy when we ventured out twice to get the lay of the land (and by "the land", we mean "the block around the hotel"). We got lost twice - the first time, I tried asking directions using my Pimselur-gained Korean, but I think all that resulted from that conversation was both of us understanding that the hotel was not at that particular restaurant, and that I speak awful Korean. There are American-restaurants EVERYWHERE. Despite being in a foreign country and feeling obligated to experience the food that this culture offers, I am kind of curious as to what they consider "American" food and kind of want to try it. I bet they are much closer than we are at our attempts at ethnic food. I did watch a commercial for a local Outback and saw that their shrimp were completely shell-intact. I'm kind of wary of that - do you cut off the heads and peel off the shell, or do you eat it whole? My only experience in a restaurant here tells me that Koreans have no problem explaining how the food works. Exploring buddy and I went to this Vietnamese place and needed a bit of instruction as to what to do with all of the various spices and sauces served with our Pho. The waiter flat out told me not to put the spicy peppers into my soup, which I totally appreciated. I did try a bit of the red pepper sauce and made a totally fantastic face. Thank goodness for rice noodles.
Posted some new stuff in my gallery - will make a post later explaining some of the shots (although, some do a good job of that on their own)..
We'll get the obvious out of the way: Seoul is GIGANTIC. It is also insanely quiet and very clean for a city of this size - which I'm sure is due not only to the diligent street workers, but also the general politeness of the people...I bet Koreans just don't litter. I still haven't figured out the whole politeness/insane road rage connection with Koreans, but am sure it must relate to the whole big-city life. I think what makes traffic work in Korea is that after they get cut off by someone, or almost rear end another, they move on and don't hold a grudge. This would never happen in America - we're famous for following people back to their houses and letting them know just how much we don't appreciate their changing lanes without signaling. If Americans drove like Koreans, there would be many many more vehicular homicides.
One of my training buddies became an exploring buddy when we ventured out twice to get the lay of the land (and by "the land", we mean "the block around the hotel"). We got lost twice - the first time, I tried asking directions using my Pimselur-gained Korean, but I think all that resulted from that conversation was both of us understanding that the hotel was not at that particular restaurant, and that I speak awful Korean. There are American-restaurants EVERYWHERE. Despite being in a foreign country and feeling obligated to experience the food that this culture offers, I am kind of curious as to what they consider "American" food and kind of want to try it. I bet they are much closer than we are at our attempts at ethnic food. I did watch a commercial for a local Outback and saw that their shrimp were completely shell-intact. I'm kind of wary of that - do you cut off the heads and peel off the shell, or do you eat it whole? My only experience in a restaurant here tells me that Koreans have no problem explaining how the food works. Exploring buddy and I went to this Vietnamese place and needed a bit of instruction as to what to do with all of the various spices and sauces served with our Pho. The waiter flat out told me not to put the spicy peppers into my soup, which I totally appreciated. I did try a bit of the red pepper sauce and made a totally fantastic face. Thank goodness for rice noodles.
Posted some new stuff in my gallery - will make a post later explaining some of the shots (although, some do a good job of that on their own)..
Monday, January 18, 2010
Meds Overseas..
Visited St. Augustine yesterday for a final goodbye to my various crews. It was awful, and I had to call someone on my way home to keep from totally crying. The great thing about going on a Sunday was that the entire house was off at a decent hour, so we were all able to go out to dinner. As I'm going to Asia, they decided that the thing I would probably not get over there would be Mexican, so we went to El Potro (yes, much queso was consumed ;)) and then to Village Inn because they don't have ovens to bake pie in Korea ;)
Melissa gave me a fantastic departure gift: more toothpaste than you can shake a stick at! I know that Aclipse recruiters claim that the toothpaste over there *isn't* packed with sugar, but I want to be sure... I also went to Target and picked up a ton of deodorant. Later, at the house, I made a comment about visiting my old roommates; Dereck responded, "We are old and Audrey apparently has an odor problem!" I digress - at Melissa's, we ran into her neighbor (Beck: the woman who replaced Randy Taylor) who travels overseas a lot and she gave me this long freaking pharmacy list. Now, while I'm taking all advice with a grain of salt - especially as everything I buy must be *packed*, there were a few things I listened to:
She also suggested to pick up feminine hygiene products in case what's sold over there is different - but several female Aclipse teachers have confirmed that they've been able to find Tampax, so I'm not taking that one too seriously.. I also picked up some Airborne which I will be taking religiously for the next several days as me=sick on the plane=awful.
While on this adventure, Jess tossed some wet ones in my basket. She said that her airplane ran out of water and it was nice to have *something* to was her hands with after going potty. Also, she said I may want them for things like wiping down surfaces before I sit down..
Back to this awful beast that is packing. I've eliminated the space bags because they just aren't flexible once the air is gone. Crossing my fingers in hope that I actually can fit it all x.x
But this time I have the Glee soundtrack!
Melissa gave me a fantastic departure gift: more toothpaste than you can shake a stick at! I know that Aclipse recruiters claim that the toothpaste over there *isn't* packed with sugar, but I want to be sure... I also went to Target and picked up a ton of deodorant. Later, at the house, I made a comment about visiting my old roommates; Dereck responded, "We are old and Audrey apparently has an odor problem!" I digress - at Melissa's, we ran into her neighbor (Beck: the woman who replaced Randy Taylor) who travels overseas a lot and she gave me this long freaking pharmacy list. Now, while I'm taking all advice with a grain of salt - especially as everything I buy must be *packed*, there were a few things I listened to:
- Culturelle - a probiotic. This was the only thing I listened to with the whole "Get a 3 month supply" advice..
- Immodium - still with this whole Audrey will probably get sick idea
- Monistat - TMI, I know, but in case any female is reading this who is also going overseas, their toilet paper may be a bit different than what we're used to..
- Benadryl
- Cold medicine in case you pick up something on the plane and don't know enough about the culture to get something
She also suggested to pick up feminine hygiene products in case what's sold over there is different - but several female Aclipse teachers have confirmed that they've been able to find Tampax, so I'm not taking that one too seriously.. I also picked up some Airborne which I will be taking religiously for the next several days as me=sick on the plane=awful.
While on this adventure, Jess tossed some wet ones in my basket. She said that her airplane ran out of water and it was nice to have *something* to was her hands with after going potty. Also, she said I may want them for things like wiping down surfaces before I sit down..
Back to this awful beast that is packing. I've eliminated the space bags because they just aren't flexible once the air is gone. Crossing my fingers in hope that I actually can fit it all x.x
But this time I have the Glee soundtrack!
Saturday, January 16, 2010
I Don't Think I can Take It All...
Welcome to the world I call "Trying to Pack". I thought that leaving my previous high stress job had the whole panic attack thing licked.... Well, that was until I tried to pack everything I thought I might need in the next year or so into two suitcases with a 50 lb limit each. As shipping costs are a nightmare, especially if you want something like a tracking number, I'm trying to keep the amount Mom has to send me way down.
I'm taking more shoes than I care to admit on here - mostly because I'm sure my parents will read this one day and I can hear it all now. I believe that actually only one person knows the true number. Despite this, they're not taking up too much room in my suitcase (I'm actually shocked at how compact all *hmmhmmhmm* pairs became). I now only need to make room for one more Space Bag, and I'm beginning to think that it may actually be easier to try to pack in the clothes sans bag. Still need to transfer a few things from my carryon as, for some reason, I tried to pack *everything* I'd need for training week in that thing. Don't ask - I don't understand my strangeness either.
So of all the questions I've asked, I feel that this one is the most important: how many times can you reuse a space bag before the thing gives up and says, "Honey, just pack less"?
Resuming packing on Monday. If I can fit it all, I will be one very *very* happy Audrey.
I'm taking more shoes than I care to admit on here - mostly because I'm sure my parents will read this one day and I can hear it all now. I believe that actually only one person knows the true number. Despite this, they're not taking up too much room in my suitcase (I'm actually shocked at how compact all *hmmhmmhmm* pairs became). I now only need to make room for one more Space Bag, and I'm beginning to think that it may actually be easier to try to pack in the clothes sans bag. Still need to transfer a few things from my carryon as, for some reason, I tried to pack *everything* I'd need for training week in that thing. Don't ask - I don't understand my strangeness either.
So of all the questions I've asked, I feel that this one is the most important: how many times can you reuse a space bag before the thing gives up and says, "Honey, just pack less"?
Resuming packing on Monday. If I can fit it all, I will be one very *very* happy Audrey.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Adventures and E-2 Visas
I didn't realize how nervous I was about the consul interview until the night before - I couldn't figure out what I wanted to wear (ladies, you understand this one ;)), and I couldn't sleep. Like many, I'm not a huge fan of walking into a situation without knowing what would happen. There are all kinds of topics on this forum about waiting for visa codes, packing lists, information about various schools and areas of South Korea - but I was hard pressed to find anything about the actual interview required to attain an E-2 visa.
Be sure the contact your local consulate in advance. The emails from Aclipse tell you what to bring, but - at least in my experience in Atlanta - the consul may require more documents than Aclipse states, and s/he (or the assistant) will want them at least a business day before your appointment. He or she will also send you a *ton* of information - as I get lost very easily, I was especially glad to receive very detailed directions on how to get to the consulate office.
Everything else here will be pretty much Atlanta-specific. I'm not sure how much networking the various Korean consuls in the states do with each other, so I don't know what of my experience is similar with other areas. Just a disclaimer :)
I'll be honest - I dreaded the trip. Atlanta is far away (6 1/2 hour drive x.x), and I'm not a fan of big cities. I live in a town with one stoplight and about a thousand people. To keep me sane, I brought my mom and my best friend from high school (I say "brought" - they were more excited than I was), and made plans for things to do other than just go to the consulate so I'd have things to look forward to.
However, I had absolutely no reason to dread or worry about anything.
We found a hotel really close to the downtown area that wasn't insanely expensive. The Atlanta consul's assistant will suggest that you stay in a nearby Merriot/Hilton/whatever that's hundreds of dollars per night. Ignore that advice! There's a Country Inn and Suites and a Comfort Inn down the road from Turner Field. We stayed at the former for $79 a night. Definitely wasn't luxury accommodations or anything, but the rooms were clean, the place was safe, and, most importantly, the water pressure was *fantastic*.
We had an interesting time finding places to eat. Downtown Atlanta is full of restaurants, but the parking fees are insane! Our first night there was a Sunday night as my interview was Monday morning, and many places were closed. We ended up eating at this bbq place called the Bullpen across from Turner Field. The parking lot was completely barren - only one car, which was just someone who was visiting one of the two employees on duty. Going inside, it's easy to see that during baseball season, this is a happening place. As we were car-tired, the lack of crowd was nice. I had one of the best hamburgers I've had in ages. If you go there, look for a tall African American woman who smiles and laughs a lot - she should be tending bar or at the cash register - ask her to make you a Somebody Else's Husband. Tell her that girl who was going to Korea sent you ;)
My interview with the consul was the next morning at 11:00 am. Way overestimating downtown traffic, I was about an hour early! Fortunately, the International Tower is in the same building as the Peachtree Mall, so there was a coffee shop and a few places to browse as I killed time. There is free wifi, but it is quite misleading: that place is a black hole for electronic devices! I couldn't get cell phone signal, and my iPod had a hard time connecting to the internet. When you finally make it up to the fifth floor, the Korean area is pretty easily marked. Don't be fooled by those imposing double doors! You can just walk through. There's a small reception desk - just walk past that to the waiting area. The window for visas should have a sign, but if it doesn't, it's the far right one. All of the receptionists are insanely nice.
Again, this may be just an Atlanta thing, but the consul sees five people a day in one group interview. The assistant will tell you to be there at 10:30 to fill out paperwork. Well, I didn't have any paperwork, but I do encourage you to be there at 10:30 so you'll have an opportunity to visit with the other teachers. I didn't meet anyone who was with Aclipse or CDL, but it was nice to hear everyone's experiences. Two of the other four had gone through Adventure Teach, who sound like they're a pretty good recruiting agency (not as good as Aclipse, of course ;)); the other two found their teaching positions without use of a recruiter. After hearing their stories, I was so glad that I didn't go that route! One girl had no clue she had to send in her documents ahead of time - had there not been an opening in our group, she probably wouldn't have been seen. Plus, she paid like $4000 for her ticket (made me thank Raquel profusely again!). The other woman was better prepared, but she didn't know anyone else going over. I think we were the first ESL teachers she met. I pointed her in the direction of this site, saying that I'm sure they'd welcome non-Aclipse teachers.
The interview itself was fantastic! The consul explained his role, that he was kind of a representative of Korea to determine whether he thought we would be a good fit for the country. He said that many people are confused about his job, and he also thought it was funny that he had such an important task, but only an hour to make a full judgement! He also said that the face-to-face interviews were now required because there had been so many problems with foreign teachers in Korea - apparently, we Americans are greatly prone to drinking, doing drugs, and participating in sexual deviancy. Sadly, I could definitely see how that would happen. We spent most of our interview talking about current events and Korea's role in the global market before he addressed us individually to ask a few questions (this is where I misinterpreted what I'd read about the structure: although we were asked individually, he didn't see us individually). He asked most of us about our college and teaching experiences. Ironically, he didn't ask me about the latter. However, I was one of the last to receive the questions, and the others had all majored in something other than English, education, or foreign relations - when I told him my two majors (secondary education and English), he laughed and said I was perfect for teaching in Korea, and asked why I didn't go for Japan instead.
I do recommend knowing a bit about the Korean culture, as he did ask us what we knew. Also, be sure you are 100% positive of the pronunciation of your province/city! I pronounced "Yongin" incorrectly and he had no clue where I was talking about! (Or, well, in my nerves, I probably said something completely different from "Yongin"..).
One part I liked was that I could pick up my passport the next day. I was wary of having it mailed to me - I have a had time putting faith in the postal service (especially since they seem to have lost a pair of shoes I've ordered for Korea x.x). You can pick it up at 11 - so if you're planning on flying back that day, be sure to schedule a flight that leaves sometime after that :)
If you're a Floridian like me, Atlanta is also a fantastic place to buy a coat suitable for the Korean winters. Our hotel clerk provided us with a list of very detailed driving directions to a few of the shopping locations. He recommended the Lenox Mall (?), which ended up being awesome as I found a coat at Macy's that was on this insanely awesome sale. Also, if you end up there, totally check out the Lenox Grill! One of their specialities is their macaroni dishes - I had a foodgasm :D
I took a few pics at the Georgia Aquarium to test drive my digital camera. Quite impressed with the thing - especially since all of those pictures were taken without a flash. If you end up there after your interview, be sure to be near the giant shark tank for their feeding, 2:45-ish. Sadly, didn't get shots of those as my camera battery died (killed it with those jellyfish shots - but, as you can see, so worth it!) http://gallery.me.com/aeagle
Be sure the contact your local consulate in advance. The emails from Aclipse tell you what to bring, but - at least in my experience in Atlanta - the consul may require more documents than Aclipse states, and s/he (or the assistant) will want them at least a business day before your appointment. He or she will also send you a *ton* of information - as I get lost very easily, I was especially glad to receive very detailed directions on how to get to the consulate office.
Everything else here will be pretty much Atlanta-specific. I'm not sure how much networking the various Korean consuls in the states do with each other, so I don't know what of my experience is similar with other areas. Just a disclaimer :)
I'll be honest - I dreaded the trip. Atlanta is far away (6 1/2 hour drive x.x), and I'm not a fan of big cities. I live in a town with one stoplight and about a thousand people. To keep me sane, I brought my mom and my best friend from high school (I say "brought" - they were more excited than I was), and made plans for things to do other than just go to the consulate so I'd have things to look forward to.
However, I had absolutely no reason to dread or worry about anything.
We found a hotel really close to the downtown area that wasn't insanely expensive. The Atlanta consul's assistant will suggest that you stay in a nearby Merriot/Hilton/whatever that's hundreds of dollars per night. Ignore that advice! There's a Country Inn and Suites and a Comfort Inn down the road from Turner Field. We stayed at the former for $79 a night. Definitely wasn't luxury accommodations or anything, but the rooms were clean, the place was safe, and, most importantly, the water pressure was *fantastic*.
We had an interesting time finding places to eat. Downtown Atlanta is full of restaurants, but the parking fees are insane! Our first night there was a Sunday night as my interview was Monday morning, and many places were closed. We ended up eating at this bbq place called the Bullpen across from Turner Field. The parking lot was completely barren - only one car, which was just someone who was visiting one of the two employees on duty. Going inside, it's easy to see that during baseball season, this is a happening place. As we were car-tired, the lack of crowd was nice. I had one of the best hamburgers I've had in ages. If you go there, look for a tall African American woman who smiles and laughs a lot - she should be tending bar or at the cash register - ask her to make you a Somebody Else's Husband. Tell her that girl who was going to Korea sent you ;)
My interview with the consul was the next morning at 11:00 am. Way overestimating downtown traffic, I was about an hour early! Fortunately, the International Tower is in the same building as the Peachtree Mall, so there was a coffee shop and a few places to browse as I killed time. There is free wifi, but it is quite misleading: that place is a black hole for electronic devices! I couldn't get cell phone signal, and my iPod had a hard time connecting to the internet. When you finally make it up to the fifth floor, the Korean area is pretty easily marked. Don't be fooled by those imposing double doors! You can just walk through. There's a small reception desk - just walk past that to the waiting area. The window for visas should have a sign, but if it doesn't, it's the far right one. All of the receptionists are insanely nice.
Again, this may be just an Atlanta thing, but the consul sees five people a day in one group interview. The assistant will tell you to be there at 10:30 to fill out paperwork. Well, I didn't have any paperwork, but I do encourage you to be there at 10:30 so you'll have an opportunity to visit with the other teachers. I didn't meet anyone who was with Aclipse or CDL, but it was nice to hear everyone's experiences. Two of the other four had gone through Adventure Teach, who sound like they're a pretty good recruiting agency (not as good as Aclipse, of course ;)); the other two found their teaching positions without use of a recruiter. After hearing their stories, I was so glad that I didn't go that route! One girl had no clue she had to send in her documents ahead of time - had there not been an opening in our group, she probably wouldn't have been seen. Plus, she paid like $4000 for her ticket (made me thank Raquel profusely again!). The other woman was better prepared, but she didn't know anyone else going over. I think we were the first ESL teachers she met. I pointed her in the direction of this site, saying that I'm sure they'd welcome non-Aclipse teachers.
The interview itself was fantastic! The consul explained his role, that he was kind of a representative of Korea to determine whether he thought we would be a good fit for the country. He said that many people are confused about his job, and he also thought it was funny that he had such an important task, but only an hour to make a full judgement! He also said that the face-to-face interviews were now required because there had been so many problems with foreign teachers in Korea - apparently, we Americans are greatly prone to drinking, doing drugs, and participating in sexual deviancy. Sadly, I could definitely see how that would happen. We spent most of our interview talking about current events and Korea's role in the global market before he addressed us individually to ask a few questions (this is where I misinterpreted what I'd read about the structure: although we were asked individually, he didn't see us individually). He asked most of us about our college and teaching experiences. Ironically, he didn't ask me about the latter. However, I was one of the last to receive the questions, and the others had all majored in something other than English, education, or foreign relations - when I told him my two majors (secondary education and English), he laughed and said I was perfect for teaching in Korea, and asked why I didn't go for Japan instead.
I do recommend knowing a bit about the Korean culture, as he did ask us what we knew. Also, be sure you are 100% positive of the pronunciation of your province/city! I pronounced "Yongin" incorrectly and he had no clue where I was talking about! (Or, well, in my nerves, I probably said something completely different from "Yongin"..).
One part I liked was that I could pick up my passport the next day. I was wary of having it mailed to me - I have a had time putting faith in the postal service (especially since they seem to have lost a pair of shoes I've ordered for Korea x.x). You can pick it up at 11 - so if you're planning on flying back that day, be sure to schedule a flight that leaves sometime after that :)
If you're a Floridian like me, Atlanta is also a fantastic place to buy a coat suitable for the Korean winters. Our hotel clerk provided us with a list of very detailed driving directions to a few of the shopping locations. He recommended the Lenox Mall (?), which ended up being awesome as I found a coat at Macy's that was on this insanely awesome sale. Also, if you end up there, totally check out the Lenox Grill! One of their specialities is their macaroni dishes - I had a foodgasm :D
I took a few pics at the Georgia Aquarium to test drive my digital camera. Quite impressed with the thing - especially since all of those pictures were taken without a flash. If you end up there after your interview, be sure to be near the giant shark tank for their feeding, 2:45-ish. Sadly, didn't get shots of those as my camera battery died (killed it with those jellyfish shots - but, as you can see, so worth it!) http://gallery.me.com/aeagle
Cushioning the Wait
"The Waiting Game" seems to be a popular topic on the forum lately. I'm sure CDL candidates are experiencing delays that their predecessors never had to experience. I'm one. The original plan started when I was laid off in June. I figured I'd collect my summer paycheck through August, and by September I'd be in Korea. Hah! When I received an offer that said January, I thought I wouldn't survive until then. I must have - because it's December, and in a bit over a month, I'll be on that freakishly long plane ride. When waiting for something this exciting, the days seem longer than just 24 hours. So, I don't know about anyone else, but this how I survived..
1. Learning something new
Okay, yes, this is awful and cliche and sounds like something my mom would say (and that she'd be right about, which would make me hate the advice more), but it worked. I knew that I had to find something to keep my hands busy so I wouldn't constantly call or email my recruiter. So I learned how to knit. I'm straddling the line between twenty-something and old lady with this hobby, but magazines like Vouge Knitting (not kidding - it really does exist) keep me on the safe side of things :). With Christmas coming soon, I also have that extra motivation to stay busy knitting and not worrying about when things will happen..
2. Getting Involved
Finding part time employment was a big negative for me, and I ended up having to move back in with the parents. To keep from sitting at home all day, or going out and building up the credit card debt that I finally just paid off, I contacted some of my former teachers and started volunteering in their classrooms. Plus, it could be a good way for inexperienced teachers to get to know what they're getting into.
3. Staying Active
Know the line in Legally Blonde - "Exercise releases endorphins and endorphins make you happy and happy people just don't kill their husbands"? Well, happy people also don't get totally depressed when they don't hear about a contract ;). I fixed up my bicycle and started riding (I call it the Tour de Melrose - except, instead of beautiful French countryside, I see cows and dead armadillos). The worrying puts me in a frenzy and the release gets me up those hills (yes, there *are* hills in Florida), and things just never are as bad when I come back..
4. Making Plans
I used to be a runner, and I hated it. To keep the path from looking so long, I'd set a thousand mini-milestones - instead of looking to the other side of the lake I ran around, I'd focus on a tree five feet away, and then a crack in the pavement as my goal lines. With this start date practically eons away, I made sure that I had at least two fun things planned each month so I could look forward to something two weeks away - instead of six months.
1. Learning something new
Okay, yes, this is awful and cliche and sounds like something my mom would say (and that she'd be right about, which would make me hate the advice more), but it worked. I knew that I had to find something to keep my hands busy so I wouldn't constantly call or email my recruiter. So I learned how to knit. I'm straddling the line between twenty-something and old lady with this hobby, but magazines like Vouge Knitting (not kidding - it really does exist) keep me on the safe side of things :). With Christmas coming soon, I also have that extra motivation to stay busy knitting and not worrying about when things will happen..
2. Getting Involved
Finding part time employment was a big negative for me, and I ended up having to move back in with the parents. To keep from sitting at home all day, or going out and building up the credit card debt that I finally just paid off, I contacted some of my former teachers and started volunteering in their classrooms. Plus, it could be a good way for inexperienced teachers to get to know what they're getting into.
3. Staying Active
Know the line in Legally Blonde - "Exercise releases endorphins and endorphins make you happy and happy people just don't kill their husbands"? Well, happy people also don't get totally depressed when they don't hear about a contract ;). I fixed up my bicycle and started riding (I call it the Tour de Melrose - except, instead of beautiful French countryside, I see cows and dead armadillos). The worrying puts me in a frenzy and the release gets me up those hills (yes, there *are* hills in Florida), and things just never are as bad when I come back..
4. Making Plans
I used to be a runner, and I hated it. To keep the path from looking so long, I'd set a thousand mini-milestones - instead of looking to the other side of the lake I ran around, I'd focus on a tree five feet away, and then a crack in the pavement as my goal lines. With this start date practically eons away, I made sure that I had at least two fun things planned each month so I could look forward to something two weeks away - instead of six months.
5. Learning Korean
This one didn't help with making the time pass because it makes you think more about going overseas, but since I did have a bit of time on my hands, I invested in the Pimselur program (Rosetta Stone is a bit too rich for my blood ;)). I did a lesson everyday - had to do most twice - but I feel a bit more prepared. If anything, the language did give some hints about their culture. For example, you address older people much differently than you do younger (kind of like how Spanish has different words when talking to/about a female vs. talking to/about a male). Also, it's apparently common to ask "Have you had lunch" instead of "How are you?" You're supposed to say "yes, thanks" even if you haven't (kind of like how we're supposed to answer "fine, you?" when people ask how we are in greeting).
I have approximately fifteen thousand post its left over from my previous job, and may use those to create a countdown with little message reminders (e.g., "5 days to go - have you gotten that space bag for your pillows?"). I keep thinking to myself that if things hadn't been delayed, then I wouldn't have been able to spend almost a month with my grandma (who is this hip, rockin old lady - I swear that woman has "I Love Elvis" tattooed somewhere..), or move back home to spend time with my childhood pets. I bought a suitcase yesterday, and when I came home with it, they looked at me like I was breaking their hearts - they're smart puppies and know what suitcases mean (I already know that the day I leave, we'll have to keep circling the block because one will chase the car).
This one didn't help with making the time pass because it makes you think more about going overseas, but since I did have a bit of time on my hands, I invested in the Pimselur program (Rosetta Stone is a bit too rich for my blood ;)). I did a lesson everyday - had to do most twice - but I feel a bit more prepared. If anything, the language did give some hints about their culture. For example, you address older people much differently than you do younger (kind of like how Spanish has different words when talking to/about a female vs. talking to/about a male). Also, it's apparently common to ask "Have you had lunch" instead of "How are you?" You're supposed to say "yes, thanks" even if you haven't (kind of like how we're supposed to answer "fine, you?" when people ask how we are in greeting).
I have approximately fifteen thousand post its left over from my previous job, and may use those to create a countdown with little message reminders (e.g., "5 days to go - have you gotten that space bag for your pillows?"). I keep thinking to myself that if things hadn't been delayed, then I wouldn't have been able to spend almost a month with my grandma (who is this hip, rockin old lady - I swear that woman has "I Love Elvis" tattooed somewhere..), or move back home to spend time with my childhood pets. I bought a suitcase yesterday, and when I came home with it, they looked at me like I was breaking their hearts - they're smart puppies and know what suitcases mean (I already know that the day I leave, we'll have to keep circling the block because one will chase the car).
Top Five Curiosities about This New Life
I seem to always have conversations with people who have a story to tell about a time they went on some grand adventure, and I really don't have much to say in return. I went to college, got a job within a week of graduating, and have worked more overtime than I've had days off. It was the American dream, but not my dream. I didn't really follow the status quo in high school, so why start now? Over the summer, I was presented with a huge choice: stay with my current teaching job with the students I loved, or change paths to a job that requires a new language and foreign work visa. As much as I will miss my students, it was time to let them go - it was time to embark on that journey to finally gain some global understanding.
In January (fingers crossed), I'll leave this life for something the complete opposite. If the world were a book, South Koreans would be my foil character. I'd have to live under a McDonald's box not to learn anything or evolve in any way. Right now, I don't have any expectations about how I will change - just questions about what I'll encounter. Here are the top five that I hope will be answered on this journey...
1. What's for lunch?
I won't hide it: food is a huge Audrey-motivating factor. As a die hard foodie, I'm looking forward to some new cuisines to replace the ones I'm leaving behind. Fortunately, I wasn't raised a picky eater - a good friend of mine somehow survives on a diet of chicken fingers, french fries, cheese pizza, and fried rice (nope, never a hamburger, and you can forget anything green) - but at what point will I not be able to handle what's put in front of me? I'm approaching this new cultural diet with a small amount of apprehension and a huge excited curiosity. Eel? Alright! Sea cucumber that's still slightly alive (yes, that's a reference to a fellow Aclipse member's blog), bring it on! Food is such a major part of any culture, so limiting diet may result in a loss of experience.
2. Which references are not cross-cultural?
President Bush (the first) thought he was flashing the peace sign in a gesture of goodwill, but was pretty much giving many parts of Europe the finger. He had a whole team of advisors and assistants up on etiquette all across the world, but still managed this snafu. Imagine what damage I'll cause when left to my own devices - gestures and phrases that I use without thought may have a huge consequence in another country. I'm sure I can measure the countdown in minutes (or seconds, depending on who's sitting next to me on the plane). Hopefully, it'll be something that makes us all laugh - like the friend of mine who thought she was using excellent Turkish when informing the bus driver that he'd reached her stop, but was really announcing to her fellow passengers, "Look at that cow!" Whatever the damage, I can only respond in typical Audrey fashion: blush, laugh, probably cover my face, apologize profusely, and ask for an explanation (which, of course will be followed with more laughter). :)
3. How do teenagers compare across cultures?
Adolescence is the second time in a person's life that the part of the brain that processes long-term benefits and interpersonal understanding goes under construction (the first being when we're toddlers - and anyone whose worked with teenagers can probably see the connection :)). In America, it's pretty obvious that teenagers are going through this, and understanding that they're not selfish or lazy. I'm about to enter a culture in which hard work is always expected and student-to-teacher rudeness is unheard of. If we're all humans and our brains develop the same way, how are the Asian students coping with this?
4. What will happen to my perception outside of the homeland?
Americans have a lot of patriotism, which has quickly become this belief that our way of living is the right way. This idea has become pretty obvious with the spread of "democracy" and "capitalism" with the intent to improve lives in foreign cultures, but are they really the best ways? Although McDonalds and Starbucks can be found all throughout the world, they haven't made enough of an impact to turn foreigners into American copycats. Right now, many Americans are battling against universal health care, but if many other countries are healthier under more socialized/government-controlled health care, then are we fighting against the idea because it's un-American, and not because of its merit?
5. Is it really a small world after all?
Question four was pretty negative and focused on our differences, but I also want to learn about our similarities as, for the most part, this will be a positive experience. As mentioned in the third question, we're all humans, with the same physiology and basic needs. European cultures aren't too foreign because that's where from - but we didn't have regular contact with Asians until quite recently in our history, so we've evolved into very different peoples. From what I've learned, politeness seems to be cross-cultural, as does a curiosity, rather than a barrier, about new people and ideas. Friendship is a universal need, which has created a global enjoyment of having fun with your pals.
In January (fingers crossed), I'll leave this life for something the complete opposite. If the world were a book, South Koreans would be my foil character. I'd have to live under a McDonald's box not to learn anything or evolve in any way. Right now, I don't have any expectations about how I will change - just questions about what I'll encounter. Here are the top five that I hope will be answered on this journey...
1. What's for lunch?
I won't hide it: food is a huge Audrey-motivating factor. As a die hard foodie, I'm looking forward to some new cuisines to replace the ones I'm leaving behind. Fortunately, I wasn't raised a picky eater - a good friend of mine somehow survives on a diet of chicken fingers, french fries, cheese pizza, and fried rice (nope, never a hamburger, and you can forget anything green) - but at what point will I not be able to handle what's put in front of me? I'm approaching this new cultural diet with a small amount of apprehension and a huge excited curiosity. Eel? Alright! Sea cucumber that's still slightly alive (yes, that's a reference to a fellow Aclipse member's blog), bring it on! Food is such a major part of any culture, so limiting diet may result in a loss of experience.
2. Which references are not cross-cultural?
President Bush (the first) thought he was flashing the peace sign in a gesture of goodwill, but was pretty much giving many parts of Europe the finger. He had a whole team of advisors and assistants up on etiquette all across the world, but still managed this snafu. Imagine what damage I'll cause when left to my own devices - gestures and phrases that I use without thought may have a huge consequence in another country. I'm sure I can measure the countdown in minutes (or seconds, depending on who's sitting next to me on the plane). Hopefully, it'll be something that makes us all laugh - like the friend of mine who thought she was using excellent Turkish when informing the bus driver that he'd reached her stop, but was really announcing to her fellow passengers, "Look at that cow!" Whatever the damage, I can only respond in typical Audrey fashion: blush, laugh, probably cover my face, apologize profusely, and ask for an explanation (which, of course will be followed with more laughter). :)
3. How do teenagers compare across cultures?
Adolescence is the second time in a person's life that the part of the brain that processes long-term benefits and interpersonal understanding goes under construction (the first being when we're toddlers - and anyone whose worked with teenagers can probably see the connection :)). In America, it's pretty obvious that teenagers are going through this, and understanding that they're not selfish or lazy. I'm about to enter a culture in which hard work is always expected and student-to-teacher rudeness is unheard of. If we're all humans and our brains develop the same way, how are the Asian students coping with this?
4. What will happen to my perception outside of the homeland?
Americans have a lot of patriotism, which has quickly become this belief that our way of living is the right way. This idea has become pretty obvious with the spread of "democracy" and "capitalism" with the intent to improve lives in foreign cultures, but are they really the best ways? Although McDonalds and Starbucks can be found all throughout the world, they haven't made enough of an impact to turn foreigners into American copycats. Right now, many Americans are battling against universal health care, but if many other countries are healthier under more socialized/government-controlled health care, then are we fighting against the idea because it's un-American, and not because of its merit?
5. Is it really a small world after all?
Question four was pretty negative and focused on our differences, but I also want to learn about our similarities as, for the most part, this will be a positive experience. As mentioned in the third question, we're all humans, with the same physiology and basic needs. European cultures aren't too foreign because that's where from - but we didn't have regular contact with Asians until quite recently in our history, so we've evolved into very different peoples. From what I've learned, politeness seems to be cross-cultural, as does a curiosity, rather than a barrier, about new people and ideas. Friendship is a universal need, which has created a global enjoyment of having fun with your pals.
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