Mai Chi: Good morning, Ms Hoa. Do you have a few minutes?
Ms Hoa: Sure, Mai Chi. What's the matter?
Mai Chi: I've always wanted to become a teacher, but I don't know how to begin a teaching career. May I ask you a few questions?
Ms Hoa: No problem. What would you like to know?
Mai Chi: I know I love teaching, but I also need to be qualified as a teacher. What education and qualifications do I need?
Ms Hoa: First, you need to choose what subject you want to teach.
Mai Chi: OK, that's easy. I want to teach science. It's a fascinating subject.
Ms Hoa: So you need to get a Bachelor's degree in a science subject. Then you must complete a teacher training programme to earn a teaching certificate.
Mai Chi: I see. I know that work experience is very important. How can I get that?
Ms Hoa: Well, it'll be part of your teacher training course. You'll learn on the job in a school. However, you may also work as a tutor to gain experience working with children. Some parents may hire secondary school students to help their children.
Mai Chi: Good idea. What skills do you think I should start developing?
Ms Hoa: Well, a good teacher needs to have good communication and teamwork skills. It's also important to be able to understand other people's feelings.
Mai Chi: I'm also wondering what interests and hobbies are good for a career in teaching.
Ms Hoa: This is an interesting question. I'd say reading is the most important as it helps us keep up with new knowledge.
Mai Chi: Sounds good. I like reading. And I like your idea of finding a tutoring job.
Ms Hoa: Great! Let me know if you need a reference.
Mai Chi: Oh, what's a reference?
Ms Hoa: Well, it's a person who agrees to give information about your character and abilities. And remember to keep a record of everything you have learnt and done. You will need it later on to write your CV or curriculum vitae in order to apply for a job.