Reading the blog now and it seems exactly like the situation in Japan if you don't speak good Japanese. The most important thing is realizing what it is you're getting into so you don't end up bitter over expecting a career-type job.

Jarvik7 Wrote:No one respects foreign English assistants, ever. Would you respect the guy at McDonalds who salts your fries just because he tried really hard and put the perfect amount on?

Of course, because he makes an effort to provide me with the best possible fries. That means he respects my meal and my money I spend on it.