Ever since I graduated from Dalhousie University, I have been teaching English in Korea. In July of 2007 I went to Daegu to teach at a hagwon. Before I graduated, I spent my last year of university researching Korean society and culture. I wanted to know as much about the country and people as possible before heading there. When I arrived in Daegu, I was surprised by how well I managed to fit in so quickly. I was expecting culture shock, as I had never been out of North America before. My students and co-workers thought it was strange of me to not feel isolated and alone in Korea, so far from Canada, but it was never an issue.
Teaching English seemed the best way to explore Korea for a recently graduated individual. Although I was a novice in those first few weeks, my teaching skills improved due to constant exposure to the students. I found myself learning a lot about Korea, as well as my own cultural background (teaching is a two-way street; you impart knowledge but you also gain knowledge). It wasn’t long before I realized I was enjoying myself more in Korea than I had in Canada!
My students were continuously under pressure to excel academically. I tried to ensure they were able to meet their goals and aspirations. It was always my focus to reduce their stress levels as much as possible. While I took their education very seriously, I also tried to add a little fun and joy into their lives. I often took it upon myself to plan and host parties for the students, independent of my academy and on my own (limited) free time. I often took them skating or to see a movie. Sometimes we would go traveling together to various events, or even out of the city. Their parents often didn’t have the time, or money, to entertain their children so they were always quite grateful towards me. I would often receive gifts of thanks from parents and grandparents for treating their sons and daughters. I always felt embarrassed receiving such gifts because I didn’t think I deserved that. The students always gave me so much in the classroom; I always wanted to give them something in return.
Having moved across Canada throughout my childhood (I come from a military family), I always encountered new cultures and regions. It forced me to be accepting and adapt quickly. My childhood obviously came in handy when I went to Korea. Korean culture is clearly quite distinct from my own, but I took that as a point of interest. During my stay in Daegu, I surrounded myself with only Korean friends and individuals. I thought that would be the best way to pick up the culture and language. My Korean friends and I are quite close and we remain in contact on a daily basis. Many of my friends cannot speak a lot of English but we manage to get by with my limited Korean abilities. I joined a bowling club at the behest of one of my co-workers. The club was an excellent way to socialize with new people, even though I was the worst player on the team. This integration into Korea later led to reverse culture shock when I would return to Canada for vacation!
Having spent over three years in the hagwon system, I wanted to experience the other side of life for EFL teachers in Korea. Teaching at a public school seemed like an interesting step with its own set of challenges and lessons to learn from. I was particularly interested in the prospect of teaching outside the major cities, as that would be an entirely new experience for me. I am keen to use all the skills and techniques I have learned over the years in a different setting.
I am frequently asked why I wish to return to Korea. Much of my family wishes I could stay in Canada. My friends don’t know why I haven’t chosen a different country to teach English in, since I have already experienced Korea. There are many reasons why I want to return to Korea. First and foremost, I have many connections there. Many of my friends live in Daegu (or other cities). I am still in frequent contact with many of my students, whom implore me to immediately return! I would also like to gain greater proficiency with my spoken Korean levels. While my Korean friends are surprised by my knowledge, my skills are still quite basic. It is my intention to study Korean history at the graduate level in the near future, so a deeper understanding of the Korean language is a necessity. I also strongly believe I can help many students achieve their academic dreams, stemming from previous success I had.
When it comes to my educational philosophy, it is quite varied. I believe in leading by example since, as a teacher, I should be the students’ role model. I believe teachers should be very flexible with their techniques, as not all students learn the same way or at the same rate. Learning should be a natural process and is best nurtured through interest. While books are useful tools, other avenues must be used as well (multi-media, games, activities, role-playing etc). Students should look at mistakes as a chance to learn and better themselves, rather than as obstacles. Teachers should be fair in both punishing and rewarding students. As a teacher, I was always keenly aware I held my students’ futures in the palms of my hands. That is a responsibility I do not take lightly.