Options for Post Graduate Global Programs
Posted on November 07, 2019
While studying abroad is an optimal experience as a college student, there are no shortage of other program types if you are a graduating senior, recent graduate, young professional, or simply looking for other options.
While studying abroad is an optimal experience as a college student, there are no shortage of other program types if you are a graduating senior, recent graduate, young professional, or simply looking for other options. Below are just some of the other program types available that may better suit what you're looking for!
Is an internship abroad the right fit for you? Depending on your academic and professional goals, a standalone internship or one connected to your study abroad program might be a the perfect opportunity for you. Overseas internships are an opportunity to experience the unique facets of different industries outside of your country and at the same time gain priceless life experience. Not only will you have the experience of an internship; you will have had one abroad!
Fellowships are often highly competitive and prestigious opportunities that provide you not just with a unique professional experience, but also with mentorship and support from an established network that are guaranteed to connect you to other highly successful fellows and opportunities. Many Fellowships are often offered through the State Department, and include additional benefits beyond just the financial support and prestige; which is why they are so competitive to begin with.
Teaching abroad is an incredible way to immerse yourself in the local culture, interact on a meaningful level with the locals and earn some money to travel. Teaching, however is not easy; it's challenging and you will certainly earn the money you make as you navigate not just a different every-day culture, but a different culture of schooling and teaching. Consider taking a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) course, research the local culture, and get paid to be abroad. This is a great alternative if you’re a graduating senior and you have never been abroad before.
Volunteering abroad is an opportunity often under utilized. Some even considered it not worthwhile, because it does not provide immediate monetary pay. So why participate in volunteer abroad programs? For starters, the opportunity to give back to local communities is always a meaningful experience that will provide you with more insight about the needs of that community. If you have skills that will help others thrive, why not commit a few hours a week to a good cause?
Many students believe that international opportunities are only available to undergraduate students. This is not so. There are many opportunities for students to make their graduate school experience an international one. Taking advantage of the multiple graduate scholarships available to study abroad is an effective way to internationalize your graduate program. Scholarships and Fellowships such as the FLAS (Foreign Language and Area Studies) are specifically geared toward graduate students who want to study abroad as a part of their program.
So you’ve just finished four years of high school and not looking to jump head first into a four year college experience? Well consider taking a year “off” or what’s also know as a gap year.
Get a taste of what the world has to offer while gaining independence and a better sense of self in a new cultural environment. Gap year programs allow students to immerse themselves into a new culture, learn a language and work on meaningful community projects for a year. It’s a great way for students to explore new boundaries and transition into the college lifestyle. Read more in our Parent’s Guide to Study Abroad.
Choosing to work and live abroad is a life changing decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. There are many factors to consider before even stepping foot on a plane, including a deeper understanding what you will need in order to pursue jobs abroad. Working abroad is a great way to see the world and receive a regular income, but you may want to consider the pros and cons of leaving home for what could become a permanent move!