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UW grads go global after graduation
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by ie Kieren
Friday, April 23, 2004
Many graduating University of Wisconsin students have their sights set overseas for their post-college careers.
Degrees from a variety of undergraduate departments are globally applicable, ranging from engineering to English.
The International Institute at UW is one of the numerous resources for internationally bound students on campus.
The Institute is a catalyst for international education, promoting undergraduate and graduate training and providing in-depth knowledge of world religions and countries’ societies, cultures, economies and languages.
“Students can find a lot of useful information about working abroad from the International Institute and GoGlobal! websites,” said Ronnie Hess, director of communications and publications in international studies and programs. “GoGlobal!” is a website that provides information about preparing for and obtaining an international career.
Economic reasons are also a force pulling future UW graduates to work abroad. With the current state of the domestic job market, some students find getting work in the United States difficult after graduation.
Evan Parks, a UW junior majoring in geological engineering, said economics could be one reason why he would want to work outside the country.
“If you work for an American company abroad, the company will reimburse you for travel and living expenses, and you will most likely get a higher salary than you would otherwise have in the U.S.,” Parks said, adding that he would like to work in Germany. “Having a career in Germany would be extremely interesting. I want to work abroad to experience different places, people and cultures.”
Language barriers may not always be an issue while abroad.
“[There is a] program [we offer] … in which graduates of any major can teach English in Japan,” said Dan Colleran, assistant director at the Wisconsin Union Travel Center. “The two-year program is a great way to find a job right out of college and provides those participating in the program with housing and a salary during their time abroad.”
However, students often have knowledge in different languages and cultures to prepare for their opportunity to work overseas.
“I took German in high school and continue to take it in college, so I’ll be able to communicate with people in Germany readily,” Parks said.
Parks also commented on security issues, saying that those working abroad have to be careful.
“It’s always good to do some research, and I believe that even though it may be a little risky, there are enormous rewards in working in an entirely new place,” Parks said.
Students do not have to wait until graduation to work overseas.
“We help undergrads obtain work permits so they can work abroad,” Colleran said. “Many students wait tables during their time overseas and are able to let their trip pay for itself. Working as an undergraduate abroad helps students to network in another country to provide opportunities for a permanent job there in the future.”
