Search Associates San Francisco Fair 2016

Search Associates is renowned for helping educators embark upon their first international teaching adventures. On February 12-15, 2016, Senior Associate Michael Williams hosted the San Francisco Job Fair. Now in its ninth 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 35 schools and 100 candidates in attendance, the San Francisco Job Fair is one Search Associates’ more intimate recruiting events. Schools from over 20 countries were present, representing every region of the globe.

With its relaxed atmosphere and supportive environment, the San Francisco fair is an excellent venue for educators to make connections and experience what the world of international teaching is like. With so many first-time international educators, many attendees appreciated the advice they received from the Search staff working the fair. In addition to Michael Williams and his team, Senior Associates Jim Ambrose, Ralph Jahr, 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. Viewing the schools’ presentations, the attendees were able to gain a good sense of the diverse schools and countries represented. In addition, Dr. Margaret Alvarez from ISS International School gave a presentation introducing the International Baccalaureate Program, Senior Associate Julie Ryan presented about the preparations needed to move overseas, and Senior Associate Ralph Jahr gave a presentation with advice on interviewing skills.

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.