Alyssa is a great example of how even short-term volunteer trips abroad can have a big impact. Each reading week, Alyssa travels to a new location to participate in a different volunteer program. Here, she recounts what she learned working with Habitat for Humanity in New Orleans, and with a medical outreach group in Nicaragua.
Read more in the Stories from Abroad section. Been abroad? Tell us about it!
There are so many benefits to expanding your cultural horizons later in life, and there are many more opportunities than you might think. If you haven't considered heading abroad in your pre-retirement or retirement years, hopefully the quick tips below will inspire you to do so!
Top Tips Healthier and happier than ever! Most modern seniors have many years of health and vitality to look forward to. More than ever, baby boomers are looking for ways to build perspective and enrich their lives after retirement. Going abroad is, arguably, the best way of doing that. There are many reasons... Read the full article
In her story from abroad, Jessica gives a great description of her time adjusting to life in Colombia. Read about how she financed her trip, kept her focus and stepped way out of her comfort zone in Medellin!
Read more in the Stories from Abroad section. Been abroad? Tell us about it!
Although the Western world is hinged on a culture of equality between the sexes, some other regions approach the issue from a different angle. It's still important to consider gender issues when preparing to travel or work abroad. This section will assist women in understanding what to expect, what to demand, and how to protect themselves abroad.
Top Tips Learn about gender roles in your destination country: Are women considered equals? Are professional men likely to be put off by a female manager? Don’t assume you can change a cultural approach overnight. Be sensitive to the culture... Read the full article
Now you’ve been abroad, collected incredible experiences and built an array of invaluable international skills. You’ve learned about one or more different cultures, but you’ve also learned a lot about yourself. Now it’s time to head home and begin applying for jobs. Check out the Quick Guide here.
Sick of sitting in a classroom, Spanish major Emily decided to take language-learning matters into her own hands. She traveled to Valencia, Spain, for a six-week language study program and made the most of the opportunities for extra travel on the side.
Read more in the Stories from Abroad section. Been abroad? Tell us about it!
Intergovernmental organizations are the largest international employers in the world, and building a career in the industry can be both rewarding and exciting. Here are a few key things that students should know before building towards a career with the UN or another IGO:
Top Tips There are many types of IGO: IGOs differ in terms of mandate and scope, but whatever their specific focus, each IGO is dedicated to maintaining global order, upholding justice and promoting cooperation. Specialization is key: There is a complex network of IGOs, and each has a specific focus. In order to work... Read the full article
Short-term volunteer strips abroad can build significant cross-cultural understanding. While working as a professional massage therapist in the US, Uma has taken a number of short-term insight volunteer trips to, among other places, Guatemala and Peru. On every trip, she tries to immerse herself fully in her host culture, and to really understand the local way of life.
Read more in the Stories from Abroad section. Been abroad? Tell us about it!
Husbands, wives, fiancées and partners who are accompanying a loved one on a trip or work term abroad have a very unique type of international experience. Traveling abroad with a loved one can sometimes be stressful and challenging. After all, you've been picked up and moved from your home on account of someone else’s career. Staying busy, motivated and engaged in your new environment can help you overcome many of the challenges associated with being the "traveling spouse."
Top Tips Get to work! The very best way to stay busy, enthusiastic and self-confident as a traveling spouse is to... Read the full article
Building your capacity in two or more foreign languages adds an important dimension to your international experience. Not only will the process of learning the languages likely put you in direct contact with foreign cultures, but having the language skills will prove to potential employers that you are committed to working in a cross-cultural environment. Check out the Language Learning and International Careers Quick Guide.
