Hard to Let Go

I am addicted to technology and spoiled by my car. So naturally I'm having a hard time adjusting to parting ways with my baby, my gorgeous Audi Q5, last week when I visited family in Michigan. Luckily, I sold it to my sister so it's sitting comfortably in my parents' garage. I know that they will take care of  it and I'll be able to see it whenever I go home. I swear, though, hanging its keys on the wall holder and leaving them behind was one of the hardest things to do! It's the first time I'm without a vehicle since I got my license. Oh, the sacrifices that one has to make to strive for greater and better things.  

I love you, Q5!

Meanwhile, time has been messing with my brain. It's driving me crazy. I like to think that I'm a carefree, spontaneous, and patient person who's ready for anything but in all honesty I'm not. This waiting game, this not knowing when I'll be departing for the UAE is killing me. I feel like a sea otter floating in the ocean, not knowing what danger lurks beneath me or what treasure awaits my discovery. Sometimes I feel there is so much to do but so little time to do it. At other times the urgency to pack and get ready is missing. Time seems to be moving slowly but passing quickly all at once. If the limbo in the Inception was real, I'm in it. 

Reading others' blogs, watching YouTube videos, and researching information on forums have proved to be extremely useful. I learned that getting an international driver's license is pointless when you arrive with a visa in the UAE so save your $15 or $20. It's probably best to just utilize the cheap cab fares to get around Abu Dhabi in your first month or so there until you get your resident visa and local driving license. Other things to consider and accomplish in your home country before leaving it include:

1. Purchasing VPN service to couple with your local internet connection in the UAE if you want to watch your home country's television shows and movies via Netflix, Hulu, etc. I've heard that Witopia, Astrill, and StrongVPN are decent providers with relatively reliable connections while PureVPN and others are not.

2. What electronics to bring with you and what adaptors, converters, transformers, or power strips you'll need in order to utilize your items in the right voltages - thus not frying your precious straightener, curling iron, or computer!

3. Downloading Skype in your home country and setting up an account before you leave. From what I understand, Skype is no longer banned but Apple's FaceTime and other VoIPs continue to be restricted.  

  

4. Make a plan for your money. Yes, a plan for your money. How much money in the form of cash or Visa gift card will you bring with you to the UAE? Where do you plan on exchanging your home country's currency into AED (UAE's dirham)? At a currency exchange or a bank? (Either way don't use the ones at the airport.) Do you plan on using your debit card to punch out dirhams at an ATM? If yes, do you know the various fees for such transactions? With TCF Bank (available mainly in the Midwestern states of the US), there is a $5 international ATM fee + the local ATM's fee + "3% on the amount you withdraw" fee. Plus TCF has a $520 withdrawal cap per day. Assuming that I take out the max, $520, in one transaction, the fees will total to about $25. Sad but necessary, unfortunately.  

5. Then there is the wiring of your money to ponder. Your employer will likely have you set up a local bank account and pay you in dirham. Let's say you didn't squander all your money on fancy trips and things and actually put away 50% of what you earn each month. By the end of the year, you have a nice hunk of money in dirham in your local piggy bank. But then your little piggy in the US needs some lovin' too so now you need to wire some money into it by having your local bank converting the moolah from dirhams to dollars and then depositing it. This will once again cost you in fees. There will be a fee from your UAE bank, I'm assuming equivalent to $15, AND a fee from your home country's bank, also around $15.  My plan is to wire the max once or twice a year to cut down on fees. 

As you can see ladies and gentlemen, doing your homework, having a plan, and managing your finances are crucial to fattening your wallet. So make sure you communicate with your bank and ask, ask, ask away!

Finally, if you haven't thought of it already, make sure your mail is going to the right places, bills have been arranged to be paid, and certain accounts and services that you will no longer be using in your home country have been closed out. All logistics and technicalities aside, don't forget to spend some quality time with your love ones and give out plenty of x's and o's!  

"Wasta" & Da Struggle

When people have money, power tends to get into their heads. In many Arab nations, this is called having "wasta" - I'll cry if I want to and get away with anything card. Having wasta is equivalent to having unlimited privilege, influence, and power. Supposedly, the smaller the number or license plate on a car in Abu Dhabi, the more power or wasta that person has, meaning "I am #1 so don't mess with me". (Don't worry, I won't. I'm not that stupid.)

(Btw the #1 plate went for $14.3 million in an auction.)

                                       

One of my biggest concerns with living in Abu Dhabi is my race and gender and how I will be treated there because of who I am. Questions that I have asked myself include: Am I prepared to deal with being treated like a second-class citizen or a "lesser" of sorts if it happens? Am I ready to bite my tongue and hold back my American tendencies if injustices occur? Am I going to let people with wasta waste me or will I dust things off my shoulders? Can I roll with the punches? 

Don't get me wrong, I am determined to keep an open-mind so I can enjoy my experience exploring and learning about a new culture while providing a valuable service to an exciting, young country; the UAE is literally only 42 years old! However, I don't think it is wrong of me to be cautious. After all I am an unmarried, female traveling alone and working in a relatively conservative, male-dominate society, no matter how progressive it is trying to be. Many have said that men are shamelessly flirtatious over there, especially toward unmarried women. As a result I do not want to stand out or attract attention in any way, shape, or form if I can help it. I will blend in (ninja style) as much as possible - dress conservatively and be inconspicuous in order to respect their culture on the one hand and protect myself on the other.

I was struggling to find loose-fitting, shoulder-to-toe type clothes that still manage to be breathable for Abu Dhabi's sweltering weather. No, I don't plan on buying a department store worth of clothing to bring with me to AD, especially since there's a two, 50 lbs. luggage limit I can check in w/o extra charge, but I do need at least a few outfits that can hold me over when I first arrive so I can assess my environment and then buy some more appropriate dresses, pants, and shirts at one of its fine malls. People say that 100% cotton is best to fend off the killer heat while having enough coverage & looking respectable. After some research and wandering through malls, I bought some button up shirts from GAP to pair with jeans, khakis, or capris. Then I scored some long, black, maxi dresses that go all the way down to my ankles! Could not be happier when I found them because now I can mix and match different tops and scarves (if necessary) to go over them and wear for a variety of occasions. Yes, I know, I'm a genius. 

Left: Casual - For "western" establishments like hotels & at the beach

Right: Professional - For work & other more conservative environments

Other ways to cover up!

Button up shirts from GAP

These clothes will have to make do until I look like...

...which isn't so bad! In fact it's quite beautiful. 

I swear I'm not neurotic or paranoid, though, I know I can have these tendencies at times. I am simply trying to be a respectful, well-informed expat who's done her research. I will find out just how right or wrong I am and how accurate or inaccurate my assumptions and information are when I get there, and actually that's kind of exciting! The unknown and the mystery of it all both frighten and intrigue me. 

To Be Honest (TBH) #1

Many people have told me that I wear my emotion on my face. In fact Dave (my bf and BFF of 5 years come this December) have given names to some of these infamous faces I tend to display from time to time, most notably "sad face" (when I don't get what I want or when I'm disappointed about something), "duck face" (NOT the one where an individual puckers up her lips for Facebook profile pictures, but full on ducky-like lips) - when I'm thinking about something and it bothers me or any other slight annoyances, "little girl face" occurs when I'm really excited about something that I simply cannot contain myself, and "happy face" - well when I'm truly happy. 

As someone who doesn't hide her feelings well, naturally I'm a pretty bad liar. If I really try, though, I guess I can get away with it from time to time. I'm usually good at pretending I'm having a great day when I'm actually not, especially at a workplace. To me maintaining professionalism and relationships with others are of utmost importance. Plus, I'm the type of person who doesn't like to use someone else as scapegoat for my own problems. There's simply no need to be snappy toward others when they've done nothing to you. I usually mind my own business and keep things to myself. With that being said I'm also difficult to get to know because unless you go out of your way to get to know me I'll probably smile at you, have polite conversations, and continue on my day. I find it very hard to open up to people. 

With this blog, I'm hoping to be as honest and as real as possible, so it can be a part of my growth. I think I may have come off to family and friends as this fearless and adventurous woman about to go on this incredible journey to the mysterious Middle East with nothing but high hopes, excitement, and dreams. 

This is indeed a part of the truth and reality. I mean how can I immerse myself in and learn about a new culture without a positive attitude and a healthy dose of enthusiasm? But this adventure also comes with a good amount of fear, doubt, sadness, and anxiety. Will I adjust well to Abu Dhabi? Will my race and gender affect the way that I will be treated there? Will I like my placement? What am I going to do if they put me out in Al Gharbia, away from the city? What if I feel extremely homesick? etc, etc. I'm also worried about a lot of things, beginning with preparations for departure. Many days I feel like I have so much to do but don't know where to begin or how to begin, almost crippling to the point that I just don't do anything. Alas, I can't just do nothing so I set little goals for myself to accomplish each day - make 10 colored copies of my passport to bring with me, print out the application for an international driving permit and take it to AAA, etc. 

All in all it's an anxious time for me right now - so much unknown (departure date), so much to do (sell, pack, move, or donate personal belongings big & small), and so little time. Wish me luck, send positive energy my way, and pray for me as well. 

Frequently Asked Questions by Interviewers

I cannot guarantee anything but from my experience I noticed that they tended to ask...

1. Tell me a little bit about yourself - This does NOT give you free reign to start babbling about yourself, your pets, favorite colors...your interviewer wants to know about the PROFESSIONAL you, meaning your educational background, professional experiences, and (okay) a little about your personality aka your strengths.

2. Why do you want to teach abroad? -OR- Why do you want to teach in Abu Dhabi? - Honestly, why do you want to teach abroad? It's important that you're seriously asking yourself this question. If your reason is to run away from your problems, then this is not for you. If intrigue and adventure are knocking on your door, if you love learning about new cultures and seeing the world, if you enjoy educating or helping others, or if teaching is your passion, then you should definitely look into this opportunity. As for why Abu Dhabi, you should probably say something along the lines of wanting to be a part of the educational reform efforts over there and help realize the country's goals for a bright future. 

3. What is your classroom management style? - Consistency and Calmness

4. What would I see if I came into your classroom? - High-engagement, creativity, academic rigor, differentiation, stations, interactive activities, etc. 

5. What are three words that others would use to describe you? - Flexible or adaptable, _____________, and ______________.

6. What strategy or strategies would you use to teach English Language Learners? - Use a lot of visuals and hand gestures, explain things in context, allow plenty of time for practice to reach proficiency & mastery, etc.

7. Tell me about a lesson that you did that was highly-effective or engaging or interactive. (followed by) Tell me how you differentiated that lesson or instructional activities or assessments.  

8. Tell me about a difficult situation that you experienced - First of all, your answer or situation has got to be related to education. Secondly, not only should you explain about the difficult situation but also how you handled it effectively and appropriately! This is the trick. They want to see if you're a problem-solver!

No matter what your interviewer(s) asks you, give clear and concise answers that are supported by relevant examples. Don't ramble - it gives off a nervous or "I'm inexperienced" vibe. They like people who will be flexible even in the most unexpected, frustrating situations AND positive attitude AND I will make it work no matter what it takes attitude. Finally, smile during your interview because it'll affect your tone and body language. Be confident and let your experience speak for itself.  

  

Things I Wish I Knew...(Act I,Scene I)

Act I, Scene I - During the document authentication and the in-person interview preparation process

1. Passport Photos - a) Going to a drugstore is fine (Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aide, etc.), b) I recommend wearing a turtle neck or a high, crew neck shirt so as to not show your shoulders. PLUS, tuck your hair behind your ears ladies - hair cannot interfere with your face, c) make sure you have all FOUR photos before you leave the store...my helper only gave me TWO so good thing I checked, and d) be prepared to PAY UP...my 4 photos costed me $26 with tax in Chicago. 

2. Introductory Statement - Just follow the sample page that your placement coordinator sent you 

3. Have a good SCANNER - If possible have a good printing/scanning/faxing combo machine! Believe me, you'll use it a lot! 

4. Criminal Record Check - From what I know, you have 2 options. Option 1: The easier & faster but pricier way ($50). Use the fieldprint company that TA recommends. When you register, make sure you check off it's for PERSONAL USE or TRAVEL. Show up to your appointment on time (most are at a UPS store). You get your results and can print them off online. I got mine in less than 1 day. Option 2: The harder & slower but cheaper way (~$30). Get a set of black ink fingerprints (~$9) done and let your helper know it's for the FBI criminal background check. There's this form you have to fill out to be sent off with your fingerprints (and fees in the form of a money order, like ~ $18?) to the FBI. I think you need to send off a self-addressed, postage-paid envelop with your stuff, too! Then you wait for the results to be snail-mailed to you. Who knows how long that takes. 

5. Reference letter - I hope you've been nice to your employer and/or former employer(s).  Make sure it's on the school's letterhead. 

6. Record of Employment - Go to your HR or school district personnel. 

7. Authentication of highest degree & teaching license - a) see if your bank has a notary and if it can be done for FREE, b) make sure it's notarized in the following manner (at least this was true in Chicago)... 

This is a copy of an original document. 
(Your signature) << Sign IN FRONT of the notary public! Do not pre-sign! 

State of ________________________ 
County of ________________________ 
Signed and attested before me on __________ (date) by_____________ (name/s of person/s making statement).

_______________________ (Your signature) << Must be signed IN FRONT of the notary public! Do not pre-sign! 

_______________________ (Signature of Notary Public) 

(Seal) 

Then go to the appropriate sector (Index Department) of your state's Secretary of State to get its blessings (j/k confirmation of the notary public's notarization).  Chicago peeps, you go to... 

Index Department 
17 North State Street 
Room 1030 
Chicago, IL 60602 
312.814.2067 

Secretary of State (Index Dept.) fees: $2.00 per document so $4 total. 
Make COPIES of these notarized and confirmed documents!!! 

FINALLY, if you plan on using ProEx, complete its form and send it off with (a) your notarized & confirmed documents, (b) your copies of your notarized & confirmed documents - ProEx says the UAE embassy wants copies for its filing purposes, and (c) fees in the form of a money order - it costed me $226 - $125 for ProEx's fees, $60 for UAE embassy's fees, $16 for US Dept. of State's fees, and $25 for FedEx return shipping fee.  I recommend sending this stuff to ProEx certified, signature certified, or some kind of tracking capability.   


I hope you haven't been holding your breath. 

Phone Interview Tips

Recruiting company that I went with is Teach Away. www.teachaway.com They've been extremely efficient, responsive, and informative. I really appreciate their overall professionalism and punctuality. Now onto the main topic at hand - helpful tips to phone interview...  

#1: Be prepared. I highly recommend checking out Teach Away's website and looking through the links under its "Resources" tab. Truly, the label says it all - helpful resources, especially the "Interview Tips & Techniques" page. 

#2: Be prepared. Reflect on your teaching methodologies, strategies, & techniques, classroom management, differentiation, curriculum planning, and data-driven instruction; these are just the technical or logistical stuff. I would also reflect on WHY I want to teach abroad (and be honest with yourself) and your strengths, weaknesses, personality, attitude, goals, etc. 

#3: Be prepared. Wouldn't hurt to create yourself a notes page in anticipation of the questions and your own thoughtful answers. 

#4: Be genuine: It's okay to have imperfections and flaws. We're not perfect and there's always room for growth, both personally and professionally. As long as you have a positive attitude and are willing to learn, be flexible, and grow, you'll be fine!   

#5: Just breathe: Relax and let your experience and personality shine! 

I hope you find these tips helpful!