By Thiago Silva
As university students are getting their caps and gowns ready to close a chapter of their lives, many are preparing to start a new one overseas. Current economic trends and lack of employment opportunities at home have put many recent graduates in a difficult spot when it comes to finding their first job. However, many are beating the crisis by landing teaching positions abroad. Teaching English in a foreign country not only helps new graduates secure a reasonable and stable income, but also broadens their horizons.
Going abroad after graduation enables teachers to totally immerse themselves in the local culture and lifestyle since most contracts in countries such as Korea and Abu Dhabi last for one to two years.
If you don’t want to commit for a longer period of time, there are also many short-term volunteer positions available in places such as Georgia and Chile that will enable you to gain experience and get a little taste of how it feels to teach overseas. Then, when you graduate, you will be ready to embark on a long-term adventure.
But that’s not all. Aside from the financial and self-growth benefits, the opportunity to live in a foreign country will set you apart when you return home. Many teachers that taught abroad have experienced this first hand since most companies value international experience. Your experience abroad will set you apart by indicating that you have cultural understanding and a capacity to adapt to different situations, which are invaluable when working as part of a team.
Now get out there and show the world what you are made of!
Thiago Silva is the Teach Away blogger.
