As my contract was soon to end, I was contemplating about whether or not I should move on with my life and go back to the Big Apple to continue my 9-5 job or stay in Korea for another term, two terms, or year and work a job that is so much more relaxing, stay in a country that I have fallen in love with. For those of you who know me, you know that I have went back and forth on my decision, I mean it when I say I went back and forth on my decision. One week I decided to stay for an extra term, another week I decided I would move to China, another week I decided I would go back to New York to continue my job, and so and and so forth.
So, what was my ultimate decision? I decided to take a three month term break to travel around Asia and go home for a visit. After that, I will be back in Korea for another nine months to continue teaching English at Chungdahm. Yeap, I love the country, the job, and the people at my branch that much that I want to continue working with and for the company. Technically speaking, I am extending my contract for another year, but also being able to do what I want. I mean who can actually say that they were able to live in Korea for two years, travel the world, and love what they do without working long hours?
I love my students, although they tend to abuse me from time to time, literally. They can have the most random tantrums, but you learn to move past it and love them for who they are. Being a teacher teaches you a lot about yourself, not even just about the job. It tests your tolerance and it really changes who you are as a person. I know I have grown to be more patient, not as angry and cranky and I have learned to speak a lot slower. That sure isn't easy for a New Yorker!
The plan for the next three months? There will definitely be a blog about each adventure of course, but since Thanksgiving of 2012, the confirmed trips are: Taiwan (November 28 to December 4), Busan (December 5 to December 9), Osaka and Kyoto (December 18 to 23), Tokyo (December 31 to January 10), New York (January 23 to February 18). If anyone would like to join me on my adventures, please feel free to contact me! The more the merrier :]
A few trips that are in the planning are to Bangkok, Manila, and a few locations in China. Of course jamming in a handful of flights is taking a toll on my health and being jet lagged all day, but it is totally worth it! I am definitely excited to blog about my trip to Taiwan and Busan. Be sure to be on the look out for that!
For those of you who are ending your contract soon, be sure to plan ahead of time. Don't regret the opportunity that you have which many others don't. Branches and the decisions differ from place to place so be sure to talk to your Branch Manager or Head Instructor to get a few bits of advice and what the options for you actually are! Good luck and remember, I am always around if you need a bit of advice!
Graduating with a double major in Communications and Chinese from Rutgers University, it wasn’t long after working in the Big Apple that Cindy Ung decided to take a break from the cliché 9-5 lifestyle and move to Korea to teach English for CDI. Making the bold step to leave her comfortable, mapped out life in the States, she has fallen more in love with the Korean culture as each day passes. With weekly mountain hikes, weekend road trips, discovering great foods and beauty products, constantly meeting new people, her life in Korea has been everything but mapped out.
Check out Cindy’s blog to get a glimpse of what Korea has to offer!