I'm really interested in working abroad during or right after high school. Does anyone have advice on how to secure such opportunities?
Working abroad after high school can be an exciting and enriching experience. Here are a few strategies you can use:
First, considering your areas of interest and skills can allow you to better target your search. Common sectors for young people working abroad include teaching English, hospitality, tourism, agriculture and volunteering.
If you're interested in teaching English, consider pursuing a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. With a TEFL certification, you can find opportunities to teach English in many different countries. You can often take TEFL courses online before you graduate from high school.
If you're interested in hospitality or tourism, consider looking for positions at hotels, resorts, or tourist sites. These can often be found via job-listing websites or through international placement agencies. While some of these jobs may require experience, others offer training on the job.
Agriculture jobs can be found through programs like WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms), where you exchange a few hours of work per day for food and housing on organic farms worldwide.
If a humanitarian work appeals to you more, consider volunteering abroad. Many organizations arrange short and long-term volunteering opportunities in a variety of fields like education, health, and conservation.
When targeting a specific country, it’s helpful to research work visa requirements. Some countries have agreements allowing young people to quite easily obtain a Working Holiday Visa. Others may require sponsorship from an employer.
Lastly, consider the financial aspect carefully. Depending on the work arrangement, you might need to have some savings beforehand to cover flight expenses and initial living costs until you start earning.
Going abroad right after high school isn't for everyone, but if you're adventurous, flexible, and independent, it can be a great way to gain experience and perspective before diving into college or a long-term career.
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