English Program in Korea (EPIK) - myFootpath

There are 5959 miles between Los Angeles and Seoul. Help shrink that distance by taking part in the English Program in Korea (EPIK) and its sister program, Teach and Learn in Korea (TaLK). Both programs are designed to foster cultural exchange between the U.S. and Korea; both offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

How the English Program in Korea works:
If you’ve earned your bachelor’s degree, you can spend 12 month in Korea working as an assistant teacher (with the possibility to renew your contract). It’s a sweet deal: the contract includes an airfare allowance, your monthly salary, a settlement allowance (a one-time payment similar to a signing bonus), a severance payment (approximately one month’s pay, which you receive upon completion of your contract), medical insurance (your employer pays 50% of your premiums) and free furnished housing (complete with laundry—something most of us can’t get in stateside apartments).

Alternately, if you haven’t graduated college (or even if you have), you can elect to take part in EPIK’s sister program, Teach and Learn in Korea (TaLK). While EPIK is a full-time teaching position, TaLK particpants teach after-school English programs in rural areas of Korea. TaLK positions last six months to one year, with applicants only working 15 hours a week. During their off time, TaLkers are welcome to participate in a number of cultural programs offered through the program. Like EPIK, TaLK offers housing, travel reimbursement, and a monthly allowance.

Benefits of the English Program in Korea:
Whether you pick EPIK or TaLK, you’ll have a chance to learn about Korean culture first hand, while simultaneously gaining job experience and building your skill sets. Both programs also give you the option to extend your appointment, as well as meet and network with other program participants.

For more information on EPIK or TaLK:
Be sure to check out their website, http://www.epik.go.kr/, which not only explains the details of the program, but tells you everything you need to know about living in Korea, from choosing a bank to taking public transportation. For more information on TaLK, visit http://www.talk.go.kr/.