Chances are you worked really hard to get yourself to this school. GPA's, SAT's, ACT's, AP tests, subject tests, internships, leadership, sports, recommendations, referrals, research, community service, Key clubs, glee clubs, interviews, tours, early decisions, common apps, deadlines, rejection letters from all the Ivy Leagues, one-way place ticket or car ride - these all faced you. And with all that work behind you, it might be time to concentrate on something more important: getting the hell out of here.
So pay a visit to the basement of Gilman Hall and learn what opportunities await you in the Council Travel office. Located just past the Hopkins bookstore, Council Travel is the school's conduit to various programs through which students can visit countries all around the world. By far, the study abroad program is the most popular, but what is the alternative for all those Hopkins students whose parents don't have enough money to fund revolutions in small countries?
Working abroad is your answer. For more than 50 years, Council Travel has been the leader in work abroad programs. Currently, students can find work in Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, France, Germany, Ireland and New Zealand.
The company also has a special program for a unique teaching experience in China and various volunteer projects in over 25 countries.
Every year, approximately 35,000 students worldwide take part in Council Exchanges' international work programs. Most countries reserve jobs for their own population, and highly skilled overseas professionals. For most students, it is difficult to obtain necessary permits and documents to work overseas, legally anyway.
Council Travel admits its services are not required to work abroad, but the company makes a very complicated venture an easy experience. A work permit must be obtained before departure to a country and is almost impossible to get without professional assistance. Council also provides vital assistance during a student's job search and settling period. Over 98 percent of work abroad program participants find a job, 86 percent within the first week.
Students must be over 18 years of age to participate and have attended at least one semester of college. Both United States citizens and permanent residents may participate in the programs, yet residents may only travel to France and Ireland. Neither work nor housing is guaranteed, but Council Travel provides assistance in finding both. Students can find work in sales, waitressing, catering and clerical work to list a few possibilities. Certain countries also have language requirements. Students must have taken intermediate level courses of French, Spanish and Germany for specific trips.
Costs vary from country to country. An entry fee of $300 to $400 is required for all programs. Living expenses vary drastically from country to country. Weekly rent in Costa Rica may be $50, as opposed to as much as $500 in Canada. Metro passes, food, entertainment, travel, insurance as well as other costs will be incurred. Visit http://www.councilexchanges.org for more information.
The international volunteer program is also a gem in Council Travel's crown. Designed to promote international cooperation and understanding, International Volunteer Projects offer unique opportunities for students to work on a short-term, team-oriented project overseas. Students immerse themselves in new communities and cultures as a part of an international team. Each program consists of a group of 10 to 20 volunteers from different countries, who spend two to four weeks working and living together.
Just how enriching are these programs? Jennifer Whalen, current manager of the Hopkins' Council Travel office says, "I did the work abroad program seven years ago and it was a great opportunity, a great experience. Students have done it recently have enjoyed it very much. We've gotten lots of positive feedback."
The work abroad program provides a completely different experience from study abroad and travel programs. Work abroad teaches students how to operate as a resident of a country, rather than a student or tourist. Many participants of the program have used it as a launching pad to an extended stay in a country. Wages help to offset the cost of the stay and allow students to experience a country independently.
Brochures and information may be found through the Gilman office, but the programs are run exclusively through Council Exchanges, a Council Travel subsidiary. Dialing 1-888-COUNCIL will put you in touch with a work abroad expert.
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