Working Abroad

Check out the above article. It's about young Americans who move abroad for work, which is obviously an interesting subject for me. A few quotes I like: 1)"According to one estimate, 35,000 young Americans realize that working abroad, whether teaching, bartending, taking care of children, typing or picking grapes, has moved well beyond just trust-fund children. Far from being career suicide, it can actually provide a professional boost." Yeah, and about 1,000 of them have to be in Prague teaching english. And 50% of these are here because beer is cheaper in Prague than it is in Kansas City. 2) "Many aspiring expatriates live at home and work a few months to save money before they leave. " I left immediately after school, then came home and bummed around my parents house for two months, which mostly consisted of me laying by their pool. But that's okay because I left before they yelled at me to get the hell out. 3) "Many travelers depart not knowing how they will earn a living once they hit the ground. With hustle, they often find employment before the jet lag wanes (to the relief of worried parents), according to some who have taken the plunge. Those working legally tend to earn more, but their stays have a set duration — generally, four months to three years, depending on the country or program. People working illegally may earn less but can slip under the radar and stay in a country longer. A word of warning: that can result in deportation in extreme circumstances." I had no idea. I had some interviews, but then ended up drinking a lot of beer and feeling sorry for myself. I also had the unpleasant experience of receiving a letter in the mail that told me I had to leave the country within 30 days. What I love about the Czech republic is that I can totally ignore this. This place is so awesome. 4) ""Admittedly, it is a way to goof off and have a good time in a foreign country," he said, but he added that "having international experience under your belt — employers are enthusiastic."" Goofing around? I know nothing about this. As a high-flying Financial Analyst for an American multinational, I have long forgotten the meaning of fun. 5) "Foreign experience demonstrates entrepreneurship, resourcefulness and independence, according to recruiters. Rosalind Clay Carter, senior vice president for human resources at A&E Television Networks, said people who work and support themselves overseas tend to be inquisitive, flexible and adaptive — valuable skills in today's workplace." I have focused all my flexability and adaptivity on making sure I never pay more than a dollar for beer. And of this I can be proud.