Search Associates is renowned for helping educators embark upon their first international teaching adventures. On February 8-11, 2019, Senior Associates Bob and Jennifer Imholt hosted the San Francisco Job Fair. Now in its twelfth year, the San Francisco Fair is regarded as an excellent venue for outstanding international schools to connect with enthusiastic, qualified teachers looking to work overseas, many for the first time.
With 55 schools and about 100 candidates in attendance, the San Francisco Job Fair is one of Search Associates’ more intimate recruiting events. Unfortunately, unprecedented winter storms in the Pacific Northwest did put a halt to many candidates’ travel arrangements, so fewer than expected were able to make it down to San Francisco due to the wild weather conditions.
Its relaxed atmosphere and supportive environment make the San Francisco fair an excellent venue for educators to make connections and experience what the world of international teaching is like. The many first-time international educators attending appreciated the advice and support they received from the Search Associates staff working the fair. In addition to Bob and Jennifer Imholt and their team, Senior Associates Gary MacPhie and Julie Ryan were present to assist candidates and provide guidance.
The San Francisco Fair acts as a fantastic introduction to the world of international teaching for the candidates, many of whom have never taught outside the United States. By viewing the schools’ presentations, the attendees were able to gain a good sense of the diverse schools and countries represented. In addition, High School Principal Joel Cohen of the French American International School of San Francisco gave a presentation introducing the International Baccalaureate Program, Di Riley of Letovo School in Russia gave a talk about Child Protective Recruitment practices, Senior Associate Julie Ryan presented about interview skills for success, and Senior Associate Gary MacPhie and his wife Barbara hosted a presentation with advice on moving overseas.
This year’s job fair was held at the San Francisco Airport Marriott Hotel, a convenient five-minute drive from the airport. The hotel rests beside the waterfront, providing a picturesque backdrop for recruiters and candidates to network and interview. Many candidates secured a new international job, and for all, the opportunity to learn about teaching overseas made for an exciting weekend!
