The Wide Array of Global Careers
Global: An Extraordinary Guide for Ordinary Heroes
If you want to work on global issues either domestically or abroad, then this blog is for you. The list really is endless of ways to do so. Keep that in mind as you’re embarking on your global career – it’s really not a question of whether you will have a global career, but rather how you will.
One option is to work for the U.S. government as a Foreign Service Officer or to be stationed abroad with another federal department or agency. Or you could work for the U.S. government domestically, but on global issues – even local government often have positions focused on international relations and trade. Another possibility is working for a non-governmental organization (NGOs) focused on humanitarian issues, there are also smaller NGOs based in the U.S. and focused abroad, and also civil society organizations that are based abroad. Volunteering is often a way to get your foot in the door if you want to work abroad. In addition, foundations offer the opportunity to have a global career where you manage grant-making or investing in projects and organizations overseas. There are globally focused foundations all over the U.S.
You could also work for a multilateral international organization, such as the United Nations, the World Health Organization, the International Organization for Migration or the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. There are also regional development banks like the Asian Development Bank or the African Development Bank.
Alternately, you could take the route that my husband did and be an international educator and teach in international schools around the world. These are usually kindergarten through high school, but there are also universities around the world where courses are taught in English. Along those lines, you could work in academia and do research on international issues. If you’re interested in doing research, you could also work for a think tank, where you could do research with the aim of influencing policy decisions.
You could also work abroad in the private sector, like for an international bank, investment firm, corporation or consulting company. You could always work in the U.S. for a multi-national corporation or a foreign-owned company, which would expose you to a range of international economic or political issues. Or you could work in corporate social responsibility (CSR) – many private companies have a CSR branch where you can focus on many important do-gooder issues.
Whether you want to work abroad or work domestically on international issues, just remember there are tons of options. Figure out what you’re passionate about and what you’re good at and then, based on these criteria, find the right job for you. The key is finding the right fit for yourself – something that you find interesting, impactful and is aligned with your lifestyle.
Leave a comment if you have any questions or comments.
All opinions are my own and not necessarily those of the U.S. government.
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