If you have ever dreamed of working abroad, consider teaching English in the Ukraine. Despite the country's economic difficulties, demand for English teachers remains high. According to the Global English website, while teaching salaries are low, schools may provide teachers with accommodations to offset the cost of living. Since the cost of living is low and travel within the Ukraine is cheap, English teaching salaries are typically sufficient to live on. Better yet, travel throughout Eastern Europe is far more budget-friendly than in Western Europe, so it might be possible enjoy the added benefit of exploring neighboring countries.

Enroll in a basic Ukrainian course or purchase Ukrainian language-learning software. Although you will be speaking English at work, familiarity with Ukrainian will help you assimilate to life in this country more easily.

Learn as much as possible about life as an expatriate English teacher in the Ukraine. Read books and magazine articles about Ukrainian history and culture. Talk to people who have taught English in the Ukraine and visit Internet forums such as Dave's ESL cafe (see Resources below) to get a sense of what to expect.

Research TEFL or Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL) programs in your area. The majority of English teaching positions in the Ukraine require a TEFL certificate in addition to a bachelor's degree. Even if a school doesn't require it, a TEFL certificate will give you an edge over other applicants.

Enroll in a TEFL program. Most major cities offer TEFL or TESOL programs. Depending on whether a student is enrolled in a part-time or full-time program, it can take anywhere from one month to three months to obtain a certificate. The Boston Language Institute's full-time TEFL certificate program can be completed in just four weeks (see Resources below). The part-time program requires 12 weeks to complete.

Create a resume and cover letter discussing your desire to teach in the Ukraine. Detail any relevant teaching experience. If you do not have teaching experience, play up your education credentials, including your newly acquired TEFL certificate.

Apply for English teaching posts in the Ukraine. Many TEFL programs provide job placement assistance to students upon completion of a TEFL certificate. Websites such as Dave's ESL Cafe and Jobs Abroad (see Resources below) also advertise English-teaching positions.

Prepare for your job interview. According to the TEFL Institute, most interviews are conducted by phone. Before the interview, make a list of any questions you may have. During the interview, speak clearly and do not hesitate to ask additional questions if something is unclear. Do not forget to inquire about required visas, salary and housing, as well as vacation time and class size.

Carefully examine your contract. If something is unclear or if you have additional questions, follow up with the school and request clarification. Ask for any paperwork needed to obtain a work visa.