Thursday, June 12, 2008

Why I want to teach ESL in Korea

My name is Karissa Bryant and I am an American teacher from Seattle, Washington. My intent is to secure a reliable, reputable position teaching English in a public Korean school on Jeju Island. My teaching experience has included a variety of settings and subjects as well as working with children grades 1-12. These experiences have inspired me to seek a new challenge of teaching ESL abroad and adapting to life in a new culture.

Being an avid learner and traveler, I eagerly anticipate studying the Korean language, living a Korean lifestyle, and exploring the natural beauty of Jeju Island as well as the mainland. While in Korea it is my goal to live among people of an entirely different culture than my own and be open to learning from them. Living in a smaller community will allow me the opportunity to become immersed in local culture as opposed to the bustle of city life and distractions of many other travelers and foreigners.

Teaching is a passion for me, both with younger and older students. I approach my classroom lessons with a goal-oriented framework in a spirit of creativity and fun. It is my philosophy that students respond best in a positive, supportive environment but also when asked to rise to challenges and well defined expectations. I am dedicated to my students both personally and professionally. I also respect administration guidelines and curriculum, and am happy to follow clear standards and expectations.

I look forward to teaching in Korea with all of its challenges and rewards.