6 Tips for a Successful EPIK Interview

[@jordanshivers7442]

I think you're just too neat. These videos are invaluable! Thanks for taking the time to explain so articulately what we are to expect.

[@ucci4pie600]

Ay! who else is watching this in 2017! Great video Tom! Thanks for the advice. Cheers mate.

[@motox20]

Ucci 4pie right here! Lol. I've been seriously considering going back to Korea to Teach ESL, looking at everything I can on it. Never taught but lived off post for a couple years when I was in the U.S. Army.

[@stefanoperti4097]

really appreciate the info here, surprised this doesnt have the views it deserves

[@JosieWeir]

Excellent advice. Thank you very much. The last point about presenting something unique or identifying about yourself as a person is also very important and is indeed a great way to polish off a winning interview.

[@trekkorea3097]

Completed my EPIK interview an hour ago.

[@DaniAh]

how was it?

[@brittanybaker4678]

Extremely helpful! I really appreciate the clarity and focus you bring to presenting the information in your videos.

[@Johnny-hn9ts]

Have an interview with a hagwon in couple hours, this video is helping me prepare, thanks.

[@Reddragondiaries]

That is correct. Choose one recruiter for submitting to EPIK. For all other opportunities, contact all the recruiters you can - they all have different opportunities.

[@TerryFreak389]

I am reading this now and I must say it is very informative. Thank you so much for this 👍🏿

[@Reddragondiaries]

EPIK prefers someone experienced for sure so I think yours would be a big plus. I don't think you're older than me so you shouldn't have any issues.

[@WillTheSage]

My EPIK interview is tonight, will try to remember to edit this later and include how it went down.

[@katnipme]

Thanks. Hopefully we can soon see you post a video of one of your class lessons.

[@iGallivant]

With each video I watch, I am more impressed with your candor and knowledge and your desire to share your experiences and wisdom. I admire your positive attitude and that you share your positive experiences, I am tempted to view some of the other posts, but some of them look like crazies--aka bringing their baggage and attitudes with them. Tom, can you recommend any other bloggers who's videos I should watch, with the same positive spin... or other teachers' websites? Thx!!! Gina

[@dubagentselekions8221]

Thanks bro ....really really think im gona kill the interview decimal...feel confident and full of answers

[@Reddragondiaries]

lol. Thank you...I think. I don't think you'd have to worry about your recruiter seeing the info. I blurred it out because YT to open to the world. This application process is quite private.

[@Reddragondiaries]

Each school is entirely different. Some schools stick closely to the book, others ask the foreign teacher to make their own activities and lessons - as in my case. There is always a coteacher in class with you. At least there is always supposed to be. I believe EPIK allows you to request one city, but they place you at a school of their choosing.

[@Reddragondiaries]

I was at Metropolitan Ministries in Tampa, Florida. Woot, woot! God bless them!

[@Reddragondiaries]

Sorry to hear the news. You can ask your recruiter what your options are with EPIK. Fear not though, there are many teaching opportunities in Korea and in MANY other countries around the world. Stay with it!

[@Reddragondiaries]

There isn't an age limit with EPIK. There aren't many middle aged teachers in general, but that doesn't mean you can't do it.

[@josephc4]

Awesome, thanks! My next step is applying for the background check, then applying for the recruiter/program. I hope to be teaching in SK by March, and look forward to cheering for Korea in the world cup with the Koreans!

[@Reddragondiaries]

I think that would be an awesome thing to tell them. It depends on how long you've been in Canada. I believe if you've been there long enough with citizenship, you can get in. You may also need to take the TOEIC to show your proficiency.

[@lindabui1]

thanks for the vid Tom! just in time for EPIK interviews!! :)

[@Reddragondiaries]

Thank you very much. I try to keep it on the up-and-up as much as I can. I didn't really have videos like this when I was coming in so I thought I'd make them. I personally watch Qiranger, Chelseaspeak3, Myargonauts, Smiling Seoul and a few others. They are fun and professional so I like them. I also like GRRRL Traveler (aka ckaaloa) who is actually a travel blogger, but does do some vids and taught English in Korea as well.

[@Reddragondiaries]

Sorry for the late response. Thanks for the compliment. Hope it helped.

[@jaxommm]

I might be older. First visited Korea as an exchange student at Yonsei in 2001-2002. I was 27 at the time. In Korea, I'm considered a geriatric now. However, I am hoping EPIK will be interested. Again, I'm grateful for your help!

[@lr2ldn]

Thank you! I hope so! I'm still waiting for the results!

[@Reddragondiaries]

Definitely go to Seoul if you're in Korea

[@Reddragondiaries]

I placed the link in the comments section of this video.

[@londimyeza]

Thank you so much for this video,I am in the process of applying and hoping everything goes perfectly :))

[@Reddragondiaries]

Oh my head that's insane to hear. I haven't heard of this before, but kudos to you for taking the bull by the horns. Yes, I would mention it in a subtle way. Show them you're ready to rock and roll

[@Reddragondiaries]

One of my letters the recruiter felt could be longer so I submitted a third one just in case. It really isn't necessary though.

[@Reddragondiaries]

They love their soccer and baseball here. No doubt about that.

[@jaxommm]

I'm just hoping the EPIK recruiter will understand that I didn't realize the significance of checking off the "dependents" box. Silly mistake on my part. You are right about other possibilities, however I would like to work for a professional organization like EPIK. My last position at a small academy in Korea was a true nightmare! I was hired for a year even the though the owner knew he was closing his school in three months. One day B4 Xmas, I found out! Yikes! Thanks for your help!

[@heelsoregon]

Thank you for these videos! I have learned a great deal from your videos! I do have a question... My recruiter KORVIA told me that my BMI was too high in march and I have since lost over 70 lbs! My two questions are A) does BMI really matter and B) should I mention my weight loss in my interview this fall as a positive or good example as to why I want to teach in Korea?

[@jaxommm]

I reapplied and I was sent the application package today. So good news. I have never seen such an extensive application package. They want to know when I graduated from elementary school twenty plus years ago? LOL...goodness!

[@Reddragondiaries]

Good news! You're getting very close! Are you still tryingfor Busan?

[@choiretto]

I'm on my 7th year in Canada. Don't have citizenship yet. And most likely, still won't have it for a while. Long story. :D Anyway... do you think these 6 years will count? Or do I actually need to HAVE a proof of citizenship in my hands, in order for the countdown clock to start ticking? Thanks. :D Oh, and I already looked up the TOEIC exam, before. Your videos are very helpful, you see. :) Thinking of taking it just before going. My English should be even stronger, by then.

[@jaxommm]

SeoulTee, I have a lot of experience teaching and living in Seoul. I tutored throughout 2006, taught at a hagwon from 2008-2010, and another academy in 2011. I taught in Japan 2012-2013. Do you think that much experience could actually be a deterrent? Perhaps an odd question, but I am wondering if Epik will hire a grizzled vet for their program. Thanks for your advice. Great videos!

[@Reddragondiaries]

Skype may be possible, but I'm not sure. Usually, the interviewer is Korean.

[@Reddragondiaries]

Thank you!

[@SmileyyBabyy14]

What large organization did you volunteer at? Im only 17 but I already know I want to do this. I want to stand out as much as possible from the other applicants and your advice is very helpful. I have a feeling this job market is going to be even more competitive when I apply 5 years from now.

[@Reddragondiaries]

Thanks. Me too!

[@AAnthonySegurAA]

very informative video

[@AlwaysKaylan]

Hi! So first thanks for the video! Second, I have two questions, that I'm not sure if you will know the answer to. I've googled for them and haven't found any good information, so I thought I'd ask you since you seem pretty knowledgeable about the process. Ok so first, I looked at the application and they don't allow dependents, I'm married, however I don't claim my husband as a dependent (on taxes for example), would he be able to accompany me to Korea still? Also how strict is EPIK about tattoos, I know it's some what of a taboo in Korea and all of mine can my covered and/or are extremely small, however I have quite a few. Is this a deal breaker with EPIK? Thank you so much for taking time to answer my question and for making these informational videos! :D

[@Reddragondiaries]

Your husband can accompany you I believe but you'll be living in a 1 room studio apt. If he won't be teaching you won't be eligible for a larger apt unless you pay the difference. Even then, it may be a hassle for the school to accommodate. Tattoos are ok as long as they are not visible. At least that was the case when I applied.

[@lr2ldn]

Thanks for this! My interview is tomorrow.

[@saadic.3069]

le sigh did you get the job?

[@justinpark6186]

I've heard that it is more difficult for Korean Americans to get a job through this program simply because they are Korean; to what extent is this true? Thanks!

[@Reddragondiaries]

Maybe for others, but not for me!

[@Reddragondiaries]

I'm older! I don't think you'll have any issues at all with your background.

[@MrMosesjackson1976]

After watching this video, I'm convinced u work for the Ministry of Education. Agent SoulTee my question for you is: what info do you consider sensitive and should be omitted from recruiters when applying for a teaching position? My question stems from u blurring ur passport serials in one of ur videos. I know not to send SSN, but what about DOB, address, phone number and the cover page of the passport? (something that is always requested)

[@Reddragondiaries]

Sounds good to me!

[@jaxommm]

Nope...didn't even make it to the interview. I indicated my wife as a "dependent" thinking that I would be supporting her when she visits Korea on a tourist visa. I had no idea EPIK rejects candidates with "dependents". In fact, she isn't a dependent at all in the way they define the term. So, lesson is, you have to be very careful with the application. I am not sure what to do about the issue now. Cheers!

[@animefreak1467]

would saying that you like kpop and the korean culture be a bad response?

[@josephc4]

On the photograph for the applications: I have heard you should smile. Did you send them a photo with a big teeth-bearing smile?

[@Reddragondiaries]

Is it more extensive then before?

[@ElleDeas]

I wish I'd found this video earlier!! I was gnawing on my fingernails, before I submitted, wondering if I should submit my 4 references or just two, since they only asked for 2. DX

[@lauriestollberg6411]

Hi Seoul Just wondering if there is an age limit to being admitted to the teaching programs in Korea? Are there very many middle aged women teachers or prejudices towards them? I have tons of experience and a BA in Health Education and would LOVE to do what you're doing!

[@Reddragondiaries]

Hopefully it went well. I think at this point you're looking good though

[@Reddragondiaries]

And also BusanKevin of course.

[@contactdavee]

Hi Tom, you did a video before on which recruiters you would recommend. I can't find it anymore, can you remind me which ones they were?

[@pdn81]

I was in touch with two recruiting agencies over the past two days for the EPIK program. Both of them expressed wanting to move my application forward to EPIK, but one of the also said that the Korean government doesn't allow applicants to submit duplicate applications (aka applications to more than one agency for EPIK.) I told the 2nd agency to hold off on moving my application forward. Any insight or confirmation on this?

[@rikaf8605]

One question. when the interview start, how should you start it? i know you should greet them first and then do you say who you are and all?

[@katnipme]

Hi tom I am in the process of getting my TESOL certificate so I have a few questions. since you work in a public school is there a curriculum that you have to follow or do you make up your own daily lesson plans. Are there english books provided to the teachers? since you don't speak Korean do you co-teach with a local teacher? Lastly do you know if EPIK allows you to choose the school or the age preference that you want to teach in? Many thanks for your feedback. Cindy

[@CardiffBoy1927]

How was it Dan,any tricky questions ? I've got mine coming up shortly.

[@spitfiredodgen7005]

I would be great at dealing with people, even if they are not kids! I have 4 kids and we get along and talk, we are all great at dealing with potential customers!

[@Reddragondiaries]

I'm a holy roller

[@OfficialKonSite]

In public school, they didn't require you to shave? I'm just asking because I have a small beard and I'm comfortable with it. I see you have one and I wonder if they want people to shave completely.

[@Reddragondiaries]

+Official Kon As long as the school you're at is ok with it

[@shineeluv5]

how likely are you to get into the program? what if you fail? or dont get in?

[@JessLovesSP]

Lol good. I was wondering this too. Kpop really got me into liking korean culture.

[@JessLovesSP]

So you can request to go to Seoul?

[@choiretto]

For my 2nd year of education, I am thinking of participating in exchange program to Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul. Do you think it's a good idea to mention having this experience on an Interview? Also, I am an immigrant to Canada. English is not my first language; so I was in the shoes of ESL students before. Does this count as my pro or con (in terms of trying to stay positive throughout the interview) ? Thanks!

[@davidrock65]

Did u have double eyelid surgery?

[@sweetfeat1]

Subbed; good guy!

[@jordanshivers7442]

Oh, also-- What do you think of Footprints, the recruiting agency? Do you suggest applying directly through EPIK instead of using a third party? Thanks in advance.

[@Reddragondiaries]

I would advise a recruiter. If you mess up on something you could be booted back in line and lose leverage. A recruiter fine-tooths everything before you hand it in. They get paid to do that so it's in their interest to get it right.

[@jordanshivers7442]

Sounds great!

[@scotta8612]

Red Dragon Diaries who is the best recruiter

[@Reddragondiaries]

scott appleton there are so many of them it's really hard to say

[@peterpark4648]

Is the interview a phone call or is it a video chat?

[@Reddragondiaries]

I think it could be either, but these days a Skype would probably be preferred

[@trekkorea3097]

Than. Come on, man! :)

[@Reddragondiaries]

lol - no not at all. Probably win you some points!

[@spitfiredodgen7005]

Sorry, but has to be said, the beard is HOT! Lol, cause it's not a beard yet, but not much of anything else either!

[@Reddragondiaries]

Yup, just a goatee. I'm not really one for facial hair, but the goatee is easy enough upkeep.

[@spitfiredodgen7005]

Lol. You can pull it off, but a true "goatee has the moustache as well. Either way, I think you can pull it off because you have the face for it. Although, if you go much longer, I believe it will take away from your good looks. Just being honest.

[@ameerasaays6941]

Hello! All the way from. South Africa..!!!..if I may ask ..how old are you now?

[@Reddragondiaries]

lol. not too over the top, but try to look friendly.

[@russiaAirsoft123]

I lost you at topic to cover

[@jaxommm]

I hope not! Cheers! I will have to treat you to some samgupsil if I get hired in Seoul...know a great place in Hyehwa if you are not a vegetarian! Appreciate the comments!

[@Reddragondiaries]

lol - tired

[@Reddragondiaries]

lol!!!

[@pepino2200]

What are you mixed handsome? :)

[@ralphwinfield2872]

Are you a recruiter and are you open to anti-Caucasian racism? The Western consulates wrote openly about the pitfalls of working for Korea -are you open to it, Dude?

[@daidaisy8913]

i have asked this before i think but i really want to know about being a single mom in korea from a forien country... I really, really really would love to teach in korea but im afraid ill be shuned or fired...

[@Reddragondiaries]

I think it's possible to find a job and have your children with you.

[@Lembdadelta]

Well I don't think they will, it's not like Japan

[@daidaisy8913]

Its something to look into and try ig

[@tagen22]

Desarae - Have you found out anything more about going to Korea as a single mom? I'm a single mom, too, and I'm trying to find more information on it, as well. So far, I'm only seeing young singles or married couples. I haven't found anyone with kids yet who has done the program. I'd love to hear more if you found anything!!

[@daidaisy8913]

I still haven't found much honestly. from what i can tell things like being a single mother is kind of hush hush in south korea. Im still looking, though. I've even tried to get in contact with some of the organizations there that are in support of single mothers and I haven't heard anything yet. =/ The best thing would probably be to look into it for yourself and make your own conclusions.