Best Overseas Jobs During a Gap Year

I'm thinking about working abroad during my gap year. Does anyone have recommendations for good overseas job opportunities that are accessible for recent high school grads?

There are numerous options for you to consider when looking at overseas jobs during a gap year. Below are a few commonly chosen by recent high school grads:

1. Teaching English Abroad: The demand for teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) is high in many countries. You don't always need a teaching degree; sometimes, a TEFL certification (which you can earn online) is enough. Countries like South Korea, Thailand, China, and Vietnam often have opportunities for English teachers.

2. Gap Year Programs: Companies like Global Citizen Year, Projects Abroad, and GoAbroad offer wide arrays of organized gap year programs including internships, volunteer opportunities, and work-study programs.

3. Au Pair: Being an au pair implies living with a host family and helping with child care or light housework in exchange for room, board, and some pocket money. Look into opportunities in countries where you're interested in learning the local language or knowing the culture deeper. Websites like AuPairWorld can be a good starting point.

4. WWOOFing: World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) helps you connect with organic farmers and growers. In exchange for a few hours of labor each day, you get free lodging and meals. You can choose from many countries worldwide based on what climates, plants, or farming methods interest you.

5. Hostel Work: Many hostels offer work exchange programs where you work a few hours a day in exchange for a bed. These jobs are excellent ways of meeting travelers from all over the world and may frequently leave a good part of the day free for exploring.

Remember, laws and regulations about working can differ greatly from country to country, so it's essential to look into the work permit/visa requirements of the region you are considering. Additionally, while COVID-19 restrictions have eased significantly in many places, you should still check the current travel advisories for your destination countries. Enjoy your gap year – it's a great opportunity to gain new life skills and experiences!