High School Grad Looking for Overseas Jobs

I'm thinking about working abroad after graduating high school. What kinds of overseas jobs are available for high school grads? I'm especially curious if there are any programs or opportunities I should look into.

There are certainly a number of opportunities for high-school graduates like you who are interested in working abroad. One popular route is the teaching English route. Many countries value English language skills and hire native speakers to teach. Companies like Dave’s ESL Cafe and TEFL connect prospective teachers with jobs around the world. You don't always need to have a degree to qualify for these roles, though a TEFL certification is often required and can be obtained relatively easily online.

Another option is working holiday visas, which are available to people under 30 or 35 (depending on the country) in places like Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. With these visas, you can live in the country for 1-2 years and find short-term jobs in areas such as hospitality, agriculture, and retail. This is a popular option for those seeking to travel and work abroad without committing to a long-term job or career.

For those who enjoy being around kids and would like to embrace a new culture, becoming an au pair may be a great fit. An au pair lives with a host family abroad, providing childcare in exchange for room, board, and often a small salary. Websites such as AuPairWorld connect individuals with families seeking au pairs all over the world.

Finally, if you're open to volunteering as a means to work overseas, check out organizations like Workaway and WWOOF. They offer opportunities for people to work in exchange for room and board, often in fields like organic farming, hospitality, or aid work. While it might not provide a significant income, it can be a rewarding experience and a great way to see the world.

Remember, working abroad can present unique challenges and joys. Cultural nuances, language barriers, and being far from home can be difficult, but they can also be a rewarding part of the experience. It's definitely something to thoroughly research and consider your comfort with before leaping into. Best of luck with your decision!