New Post (Outside to the In)

This is the first time I have posted to this blog in a three years. When it began, I was still a early 20-something that hoped others would read it and see my possibly linguistically "illuminating" experiences teaching ESOL and learning Korean in Bucheon, South Korea. Now, I would be stoked if some people will find it interesting and learn something- oh, how the wise are correct, and often the old are wise.

So, an introduction: I am Laura. I am 28. I have taught in four different countries, India, South Korea, the USA, and New Zealand, in that order. I have taught Arts, ESOL, EFL, Science, Chemistry, but mostly, Mathematics (Math or Maths depending where you originate). I have been demur, head covered, naive, and whatever else a culture required of me. I am now outspoken and honest, a bad mixture in with being young, female, and foreign in the school I work at, but again, I do not really care.

I have learnt that no matter where I am, I will always be judged by my appearance. In extremely cultural differences, such as South Korea and India, I did not mind and expected the change. In less apparently extreme cultural differences, like New Zealand, it bothers me to no end. (Just because I look 25 does not MEAN I am 25- I have six years of teaching behind me, not just two, thank you very much.)

I have learnt that not having a set of balls in education is just as difficult in advancing in ones job as not having a set in business. Combined with begin young and foreign, I have signed my own stagnant status sentence.

So, what is the solution for three years of trying where I am have been shoulder-tapped but not given the position?(I know, a long time to stay in one place, call me wanting to believe in a hope.) To leave. Move again. I have learnt and taught by wandering, and now, it is time to wander again.