POLY (Dongdaemun)
동대문폴리어학원
Academy reviews
1 review
I would like to propose POLY - Dongdaemun campus as a green list entry.
I am aware POLY as a company do not have a good rep, but I worked for this company for 3.5 years and I would like to provide the pros and cons of working at this specific campus. It absolutely isn't for everyone, but for the right person it's actually got some real perks.
Pros:
Quieter neighborhood - I guess this could be a con for some but I loved having all the amenities of a major city matched with a more peaceful and community vibe. Local businesses all got to know me very quickly and I've never been helped as keenly anywhere else in Seoul.
Pay- Of course, pay varies greatly with experience/qualifications in Hagwons, but pay felt reasonable for experience.
Supportive management - the senior managers have been at the campus for many years and all (including the director) have experience teaching themselves. They know how demanding th job can be and are very empathetic.
Housing - largest housing I have been offered in Seoul and management were very supportive in helping with any issues, as well as helping new staff settle in. Housing is very close to campus. That helps extended to health checks etc.
Curriculum - curriculum is provided and management feedback is specific and helpful to improving teaching practice, there is a real focus on students learning.
Cons:
Long hours- it's no secret POLY in general has long hours. Management aren't oblivious to this and do what they can to keep things simple but it absolutely is a consideration for if the job is right for you
Demanding teaching - This is definitely not a 'phone it in' babysitting role, you will be expected to ensure students are making progress.
Quiet neighborhood - I put this as a pro or a con. If being right next to all the clubs in itaewon or hongdae is a high priority for you, then this may not be the location for you.