The old saying goes “April showers bring May flowers” but I can think of another thing the month of May brings to colleges across the United States… senior graduation commencement. As a senior here at the University of Michigan, I cannot even believe the time has come to trade in my collegiette status and become a “big girl”. While the thought of no homework is enticing, I’m not quite sure I’m ready to part ways with the college lifestyle to which I’ve grown so accustomed, and I definitely do not want to say goodbye to the most amazing group of friends I’ve made over the past four years. Studying abroad was another great part of college and it was awful closing that chapter too. Since college is a “one-stint” thing, I can’t exactly “go back” after accepting my diploma. However, that doesn’t have to be the case in terms of returning abroad! Here is a list of five ways you too can spend time abroad as a post-graduate:
Number 1: Teach English.
Believe it or not, spending a year (or more if you want!) teaching English has awesome benefits. For starters, it is an amazing resume-builder. Most programs will award you with a TEFL Certificate, in addition to a fairly decent salary. There are so many places to choose from in terms of where to teach. China, Brazil, Thailand, Spain, and France are just a few options available. This is not an opportunity solely for those collegiettes who plan to pursue a career in education – anybody can take advantage of teaching English abroad. On top of the salary and amazing credentials, you will have the opportunity to travel all over and embrace new cultures. Talk about a win-win situation!
Number 2: Go make a difference.
If volunteer work and community service are your passion then take that abroad. There are numerous ways to help others and see new parts of the world at the same time. Whether you want to spend a month or a couple years abroad, there are opportunities that can match any of those requests. Perhaps consider taking a mission trip, joining the Peace Corps, or volunteering abroad. There are so many organizations dedicated to international service – just do a quick and easy Google search!
Number 3: Become an au pair.
Do you love children, travel, and learning about other cultures? If so, then maybe you should consider heading overseas to work as an au pair. You would have the opportunity to “nanny” for a family in another country. The typical task list might include watching the children, taking them to and from school, preparing meals, and helping the family with their English. Not only would you earn money, but also have the chance to travel and learn from the family in return!
Number 4: Further your education and go back to school.
I know, I know… the plus side of graduating from college is saying goodbye to the all-nighters, research papers, exams, and endless amounts of stress. Yet you cannot go wrong with another degree under your belt. Plus, think of it as one way to perhaps prolong “fully” growing up! Tons of amazing universities abroad exist and would be great places to obtain whatever secondary degree best suits your career aspirations. If something long-term is not your thing, many U.S. schools have study abroad programs for graduate students too (depending on which degree you are working towards). Who would have known study abroad was not only a perk for undergraduate students?!
Number 5: Work.
Make sure to take a look at the office locations for the organization you get a job with post-graduation. Many times large organizations have a global presence and that could be your ticket to possibly go back overseas one day down the road. Let your boss know that you hope to have an opportunity to take your career abroad in the future and to keep you in mind if any chances open up for somebody to work at an international office. While this might not happen in the earlier stages of your entry-level position, it very well could as you advance within the company. Always reach far – if going back abroad is a passion of yours then go for it 100%!