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It can be both exciting and nerve-racking to contemplate taking a counselling job in a new country. Sure, the role might seem like it would be the same no matter the country or continent on which it is located, but there are naturally going to be some major items to consider before taking the plunge.

Just as we preach “right fit” to our students when counselling them on choosing university destinations, in the same breath we should also consider some important aspects of right fit for ourselves.

What do you need to know in advance? What are some pitfalls to avoid? How can you do due diligence in advance and find your own best fit as a counsellor? 

1. Culture and customs

How different is the culture in the new country from the place where you currently live? What is the language – or the languages – spoken, and how easy is it to learn or to get by without being fluent? What is the religion or other customs of the new country in relation to your own? Is it LGBTQ+ friendly? What are the laws?

It is always important to try to acclimatise to the customs and culture of a new country so as to be respectful, while still considering your own background. These are personal questions only you can answer, but they are nonetheless important to consider before moving.

2. Living costs

Your bills will differ vastly from country to country, as will your salary. A lower salary in a new country does not necessarily mean lower savings. I have worked in countries that paid less than I made when working in the US, but with lower taxes and a lower cost of living I was able to save more.

Some things to consider: are you being paid in local or foreign currency? What is the average rent for your desired space? Are there taxes? If so, what percentage? How much do your other expenses cost in the region? What is your average savings potential? Factoring in the above and calculating your savings potential is most important when understanding the financial benefit of a new job – far more than just the salary listed on the contract.

3. Transport

In some countries you might need a car. In others, you will be able to take public transport or walk. What is most important to you?

I do not like driving, so I prefer to be in places where there is public transport or I can walk. I have lived in places where I could take motorbike taxis to work, which I loved; others might find this unsafe or have issues with the pollution created. I have also lived in places where I could only take taxis, which does get expensive over time. I currently walk to work or take the metro, which I enjoy. Others dislike the metro and prefer to drive, because they have small kids to consider; this could pose challenges in a big city but might be easier in a more suburban area.

Also think about whether there is easy access to flights back home. How long would your journey back home be?

4. Climate and environment

What are the seasons and weather conditions where you are considering moving? Is it a hot climate all year round? Does it have seasons? Is it mostly rainy? Is it at high altitude? How is the pollution? Is there access to nature? What type of environment will make you most happy?

5. Contract packages

What type of health insurance will you be given? Will you be given an annual flight allowance home? Will you be provided housing, either on campus or nearby, or a stipend to find your own? Will you be given a moving allowance? Some good schools provide all of the above, but what is typical varies from country to country, so it is important to do your research and ask the right questions beforehand.

6. Community

It is important to research what the community has to offer you and your family. Are there activities for kids?

If you’re single, what is the dating community like? Is there a lot to do on the weekend nearby, or will you be quite limited in a rural area or somewhere with a lack of easy transportation?

7. Expat support

I would suggest joining some expat social media pages before taking the plunge, looking at conversations there and asking questions. These are great ways to connect with others who have similar interests and have taken on working internationally. They can also offer other on-the-ground tips.

8. Packing

When packing to move internationally, some people choose to pack light and bring only a few checked bags on a flight, whereas others choose to use shipping companies to bring over larger items to help them feel fully settled.

You have to think what is best for you: do you want the convenience of packing light and having all your necessities with you, then buying other things in the country? Do you want to pay for an expensive shipping company to move all your belongings, even if it might take time for them to arrive? Is your new home already furnished or unfurnished? What access to other items exists in the country you are going to? If you do not bring all your things, what access to storage do you have in your current home? 

9. Getting your foot in the door

Many schools have vacancies posted on job services to help educators with their international searches. Some that teachers use are: ,  and . You can use these to help you in your search and to find information about packages and more. 

Keep in mind that, when working internationally, half the battle is landing that first job. The school wants to know that not only will you be a good educator for the students, but that you will also be a good fit for the environment and the culture.

Many people move overseas and then become what are called “runners”, who bail and go back home because they could not handle the new lifestyle. This negatively affects the students and the school community.

So sometimes you have to take that first job to finish the contract and show your longevity before being pickier about your destination. This is par for the course. Remember – it’s about the journey just as much as the destination.