Professional vs. Any Experience
In the global community, any international experience can be a valuable asset in your future job searches. A non-professional international experience is any experience you gain in a foreign country. A professional international experience is one relevant to your chosen field of study or future career. There are advantages and disadvantages to both types of experience.
Non-Professional International Experience
Since there are many temporary or “low-skill” employment opportunities abroad, non-professional international experiences are easy to obtain. You can study abroad or obtain temporary 6 month work visas (usually in the hospitality industry) while travelling. Some students also teach English, which can be considered professional experience for students studying to become educators.
International opportunities are usually affordable, short-term options that allow students to experience different cultures, learn new languages and travel.
The largest disadvantage to non-professional international experiences is that they do not relate directly to your career. If you are interested in a career in the international sector, non-professional experiences might not work to your benefit.
Professional International Experience
Professional international experiences can help advance your career in the USA and abroad. Many international employers would take a chance on a foreign national who has demonstrated success in a similar work environment in their country.
The biggest disadvantage is that it is very difficult for recent grads seeking entry-level positions to break into a foreign market. Most advertised international openings are for mid-level and upper-level positions which require more field experience than most graduates have. An international internship is a good way to break into the international arena while at the university or soon after graduation.