This is an interesting read. I am headed to Japan in about a month, but as a certified teacher through Department of Defense. I have friends who have went the route that you speak of, leaving after college to go teach English for something new and different. It appears that different programs and countries have very different packages for those wishing to come on board. My husband is coming as a SOFA dependent, but has teaching experience (minus the certification). He is looking to possibly teach some English once we arrive off base, but I wonder how difficult it is to get a job on a SOFA visa as a dependent on the local economy? He also has enough coursework to finish his regular certification and try to get hired as a local hire, but this takes time. So he is looking at his possibilities for the interim. I appreciate reading your perspective from someone who has been through the process getting hired from stateside.