EASYUNI Ultimate University Guide 2013 Issue 4

3. CO L LE GE CO RNER Spread your network across the world Networking is an essential part of a good career. Who doesn’t like having a bit of a chat with likeminded people over drinks and nibbles at a business conference, PR event, or dedicated networking session? The advantage of gaining some global experience is that it increases the pool of people that you network with. Travelling to different countries for work or courses (either pre-university or as part of your university studies) enables you to make potential business contacts all over the globe. As you travel and meet like-minded people, you might be surprised how many of these social contacts will become valuable business associates someday. 4. Socialise abroad and build teamwork When your employer sends you off as part of a team to complete a project in another country, being able to work well with members of that team (often comprising strangers) is vital. In a foreign land, your people skills will need to be extra good, as there are extra pressures like language barriers and cultural sensitivities (mentioned in point 1). Getting some global experience right now will make tasks like this more enjoyable: you will be able to travel with strangers and cope with new situations with ease and enthusiasm. These skills can only be obtained from global experience, not something that can be effectively taught on one-day training courses. 2. Learning another language makes you very employable! There are many ways to learn a language, but travelling abroad and getting some global experience is one of the best ways. If you choose to study a modern language at university, your course will almost certainly involve an element of studying abroad. There are plenty of language courses being taught in speciﬁc cities throughout the world that also give you a fantastic taste of regional culture. Knowledge of more than one language really opens up your career prospects: employers who have ofﬁces in several countries, or a bilingual clientele, are likely to favour multilingual applicants. 5. Volunteer and make a difference in the world It’s great to get a job that suits you and makes some great cash. But life isn’t all about money. Volunteering abroad is a fantastic way to give something back in the world, help improve the lives of others, and experience new cultures. Doing things like teaching, building houses, or participating in ecological projects for free is fantastically rewarding. Global experience of this kind looks brilliant on your CV for many reasons. For example, it shows employers your wide range of skills, and that you are a caring person who is willing to do something important for others in an altruistic way. Volunteering is also great for giving you some perspective on the world, which is an absolutely essential trait to have when you start working. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and get yourself some global experience, and enhance your job prospects. Volunteer, learn a new language, network with contacts across thecontinents, and you will gain skills that will stay with you for a lifetime andenhance your job prospects with good employers. easyuni Guide 2014 Issue 4 51

EASYUNI Ultimate University Guide 2013 Issue 4 | Page 53