FAQ's

I want to develop skills in my career field of interest, but all I can find are hospitality, seasonal or volunteer positions.  Is it still worth going abroad?
The reality is, the most prevalent positions available to students wanting to work abroad are in hotels, resorts, summer camps, restaurants, etc.  These positions can still provide fantastic skills and opportunities if you think creatively.  If you want to learn more about business, talk with the hotel manager and see if you can sit in on higher level meetings or assist with other duties beyond what the job requires.  The skills you gain from a work experience are very much your responsibility.  Think about your future career goals and list the skills needed in that field.  Then identify ALL the places you can gain those skills, and negotiate with the employer.

Why do I find so many work or volunteer programs that require fees?
Many work abroad placement organizations are non-profits. The fees go toward paying the staff that look for and set up the placements, continued support after you arrive in the country, housing and meals (for some programs), and any work or visa fees, as applicable.  The organizations are happy to discuss with any potential client where their fees go and how they are used.  If you are still concerned about a program, ask for names and contact information for others who have used the program, to hear about their experiences.  The bottom line is that these programs take care of most of the logistics you would normally have to do yourself (finding the job, finding housing, any other country based fees) for which they need to pay staff.  For those with limited time or language skills for the particular country, it is a great assistance.

Do you I need to know the language for the country I am interested in?
This may or may not have an impact on the type of work you can do within that country.  Some countries or organizations are willing to have English-only speakers at their organization, in order to assist the local workers with English.  Many organizations prefer at least an intermediate level of the local language in order for both sides to get the most out of the work experience.  If you are going to a non-English speaking country and only speak English, think creatively on where an English speaker might be needed or what type of work might be done in English and target them.


Have another quick question related to international careers?  Email the International Counselor, Sam Rodriguez, srodriguez@stanford.edu