IELTS For Emigration Dummies

From here

One of the requirements in the immigration process nowadays is doing a language test to gauge the level of a person's language proficiency in the country's national language(s). For Canada, the two languages of note are, of course, English and French.

When we first submitted our application for Canada in March 2010, doing the language test was not required but rather an optional step in the process. One was allowed to prove one's proficiency via testimonials and documentation. Although I am a fluent English speaker, I felt that the only way to truly establish it would be just to go through and take the test.

I was slightly worried at first as many warned that the test, although not difficult, was somewhat tricky. I booked myself at the Language Lab International House in Johannesburg situated at Braamfontein. I went to one practice class to learn the ropes and ease my anxiety. I met some really nice wonderful people during practice but most of them were immigrating to Australia. I eventually took the test a week later. The test came in 4 parts - reading, writing, listening and speaking.

I was tense with the results as I knew a lot was riding on them. Those were the days when I was worried about every little thing that affected our whole application to Canada. But it turned out I had nothing to fear.

Two weeks after the test, the results came out and I passed...brilliantly. My English was delish, if I do say so myself. LOL.

So for those still going through the process, do not panic. I agree with most that the test is not hard. A little caution and attention in answering the questions asked would greatly assist in passing with flying colours. To alleviate some of the uncertainties, you may want to try some samples of the test found all over the web. Just google IELTS free practice exams.

For more information, check IELTS global website and the Language Lab International House in Johannesburg.

The Prodigal Employee

From here

I'm a little nervous about announcing stuff, especially about career moves, as I think I may have spoken out too soon recently when I said that I was involved in a head hunt.

I even thought that maybe wishing myself some luck would somehow magically put me on the right and straight, errors and mistakes free. But alas, it was not meant to be.

The company I went into was in a state. And although I can probably try to stay and assist, I could see that in the end, for all that is good and well, the company will not be saved. It was going one way, and one way alone.

I decided to negotiate my return with my old employer and ain't I just lucky that they still quite haven't found a replacement? I laid all my cards on the table, including the emigration trump card and a timeline of around 6 months. To my amazement...and relief, my old boss still wants me back.

So, much like the parable, the prodigal employee (that's me!) returns. I plan this to be my last job in South Africa before my emigration takes flight.

I hope no jinxes come my way, but am hoping for the best here now!