Well, "typical" is quite an understatement. Everyday at work is different, and you never know exactly what's going to happen, who you'll switch with, what kids you'll get, etc. Working in a hagwon is strange, exciting, and weird at times.
Usually though, everyday I show up to work around 2:30 pm. I usually just sit around and talk to kids, coworkers, or just read a book until something happens. Around 3:10 pm my first class starts. My first class is usually kids who know little to some English. Most of the time, they can't carry a sentence or say a few words correctly. My job, is to just expose them and get them to start speaking English. However, it's freaking hard! You would think that these kids would be some stereotypical, obedient Asian kids who listen intently to their teachers words, but no. Most of the time, they're talking, hitting each other, throwing things at one another, and the only way to get their attention is to either not talk or make threats. Although I'm a little sensitive to do it, I've been told that I'm allowed to whack them on the head or yell at them in their faces. However, I just don't feel up to it yet.
After my first class, I start getting students who are still beginnners, but know more English. Their English level is at least around the level of speaking phrases and some words, but sometimes it's like pulling teeth to get them to talk. Some of them just stare at you or talk to their friends. But usually it's not too bad.
Around 4 or 5pm I usually eat dinner. This is usually a ramen meal. Sometimes I'll eat some take out, but I'm too poor to afford take out often. My dinners are usually around an hour or more. Most of the time I just go and talk to kids.
After dinner, the middle schoolers show up. These kids usually can speak English in sentences or broken phrases. Some of them should be in the elementary level, but parents get really pissed if their kids are considered dumb. These kids are usually a little more fun to pull pranks on since they can understand you more, but they sometimes just stare at you too.
Around 9 or 10 pm, I'm usually finished for the day. It's not too hard of a job, just a tiring from dealing with kids. But, I love it!
Speaking of staring, this is probably the most difficult thing to experience as a foreigner. Even though I'm from another country, I'm also another race. So, usually everywhere I go Koreans will stare at me, especially around here since foreigners aren't as common. For example, yesterday I was at a McDonald's and this kid kept staring at me the entire time I was there. If I looked at him he would just look away, but I knew he was watching me. I guess it just really makes me realize how much I need to watch what I wear, say, and do. Not only because I'm different here, but more importantly because I'm a follower of Christ. If I want anyone to remember me here I want them to remember Christ in me. Even if I leave this place with nothing else, just leaving knowing that would make me thrilled.
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