We think there are two types of jobs in this world. The first – and the one most of us have – is the one that just pays the bills. The second kind is better. It’s the one that pays you. Or put another way (and paraphrasing Buddha, who had perpetual wanderlust himself) your work is to discover your world and then with all your heart, give yourself to it.

Working abroad is an opportunity to act on your inspiration and motivation, while gaining a greater global perspective. You can significantly enhance your resume, demonstrating to future employers your ability to work in complex, intercultural settings, where team-building skills and flexibility are essential.

Whether you are a student, recent graduate or mid-career professional, you can work overseas. You already have relevant skills to share with the world; let an overseas work experience help you transform yourself by acquiring the skills you might lack.

Working in a Gap Year means taking anywhere from two weeks to up to a year to pursue a career-related dream. It’s a time to re-evaluate your current job and where you want to go with it. You can do this by talking to us… because we’ve done it. We can show you how to work overseas for an extended period of time or how to work abroad just once for the trip of a lifetime. Working abroad is about renewing your sense of the role you play in the world.

Even if you’ve already backpacked through Europe and taught English in Taiwan, or you’re at the end of your career, you can still work abroad in a meaningful way. You can continue the thrill of living abroad with a respectable placement like writing English ad copy for an advertising agency in Rio de Janeiro or working with street kids in Bangkok.

Return to your school or job revitalized and refreshed and with a deeper understanding of the world around you. We’ve got the tools; you only need to supply the imagination.

We’re here to help you find the right program to either match your existing skill-set or help you develop a new one. We’ll always take into account your professional and personal interests. And we will help you navigate your choices every step of the way.

Build your professional skill set, global awareness and self-confidence. Work.

SWAP Working Holidays

For students, SWAP Working Holidays provides a smart way to do a number of things simultaneously. Not only will you make money and travel overseas, but you’ll gain meaningful, real work experience to put on your resume and a new perspective on the world.

SWAP will arrange all your travel and work visas. Once you’re overseas, the in-country hosting centers will help you find a job and accommodation, and even show you where to go grocery shopping.

SWAP operates in the following countries: Britain, Ireland (or work a combination), Australia, New Zealand (or work a combination), Japan, France, Germany, Austria, South Africa, Ghana and the United States.

SWAP is also open to non-students in some countries.

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)

For some, learning how to be an ESL (English as a second language) instructor is another great way to travel and earn money at the same time. The best part is that your own learning and growth doesn’t have to stop there. Take calligraphy classes in Beijing or tai chi classes in Vietnam. Learn ceramic art in Finland or how to play the marimba in Guatemala. Your TEFL certificate can get you there.

If you already are a professional teacher, your school board may allow you to take a sabbatical, guaranteeing your position will still be yours when you get back. Return to your classroom refreshed and revitalized. Either way, the online TEFL course provides affordable, professional certification that is universally recognized.

Qualified teachers have another range of options. Your specialization in math, business or science can translate into a new teaching career in an international school or university.

Volunteer Work Abroad

Volunteering is another great option for working abroad, whether in developing countries or for social causes anywhere. Work on an animal preserve in South Africa or on an environmental reclamation project in Nepal. For those wanting a career break, some volunteer positions will pay at least your room and board. For students, ask at your local registrar’s office if it’s possible to defer your student loan while you’re on the volunteer assignment.

Call your Gap Year Abroad specialist today. Work is about developing you.

Call your Gap Year Abroad specialist today. Travel is about changing your perspective.