Abroad : Finding international internships and entry-level jobs

WORKINGby Jill N. Laceyustralia. China. Kenya. France. Brazil. For many people, think-ing about these distant lands conjures up images of speaking in Aforeign tongues, eating exotic foods, and listening to music that has a local flair. Different cultures have varied lifestyles that often seem more exciting or glamorous than our own. Regardless of whether our perceptions of other cultures are real, the allure of experiencing a new culture firsthand entices people to go abroad. Jill N. Lacey is an economist in the Division of Labor Force Statistics, BLS, (202) 691-5806.2 Occupational Outlook Quarterly • Fall 2006WORKING ABROADFinding international internships and entry-level jobsIncreasingly, people seek international work to com- planning ahead can make working abroad personally and pletely immerse themselves in the language and culture professionally rewarding. of their host country. Working abroad can provide many This article describes some of the programs that help benefits, such as improving foreign language skills, net- workers start careers in far-off places. It describes types working with local employers, and developing flexibility of international work, including student internships and and intercultural understanding. The skills learned abroad short-term work; U.S.