How to Choose a Work Abroad Program for College Students
College is a time to learn, to grow and to explore the world, and many students take advantage of their summer breaks and other free time off from classes to get out there and see the world. Traveling the world is possible, even if you are a college student with little extra spending money. There are numerous work abroad programs that allow you, for a fee, to secure a work permit that will allow you to work and to pay for your travel as you go. If employment overseas sounds like an intriguing opportunity, then read on.
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Instructions
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Decide where you want to travel. Arguably the foremost organization offering work abroad programs to college students and recent graduates in the U.S. and beyond is BUNAC (British Universities North American Club), which offers work abroad opportunities in Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Ireland, France and Canada.
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Determine when you want to work abroad. You may opt for working abroad in a different country each summer, or you might want to head overseas after you have graduated from college.
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Identify your goals for working abroad, so you can choose the most suitable program. Do you want a career-related job that will enhance your resume or do you just want a job that will allow you to pay for your time overseas?
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Talk with the coordinators of the work abroad programs that you are considering and ask pertinent questions, including asking for the names and contact information of former work abroad participants. Talk with others who have worked abroad so that you will know what you can expect from the experience and what pitfalls they experienced that you can now avoid.
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Determine whether you meet the eligibility requirements of the work abroad program. You will generally be required to show proof of student status, such as transcripts or a letter from your university on university letterhead, if you’re applying for a work abroad program that requires current or recent student status.
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Fill out the work abroad application and send it in, with the appropriate fee and necessary paperwork. Because processing times can vary, be sure to get your application in as early before your desired travel date as possible.
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Begin travel preparations once you receive your work permit. With the ISIC student identity travel card, you can receive discounts on airfare, accommodation and even on entrance fees to museums once you arrive at your destination.
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Tips & Warnings
There are some work abroad programs that currently do not require you to be a student or have been a student within the past six months, so you can continue your working and traveling the world even after you have graduated. For example, BUNAC’s Work Australia program makes it possible for anyone between the ages of 18 and 30, regardless of student status, to secure a work permit.
Pack lightly when you go abroad. Remember, too much luggage will make it difficult for you to get around, especially if you decide to travel after your work permit expires.
Most college students who secure work permits abroad from organizations such as BUNAC typically do not hold career-related jobs. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not possible to find a job in your career field.
