Worldly wise: dreaming of a career in a faraway land? Here's how others have made that wish come true

Career World, April-May, 2004 by Melissa M. Ezarik

With the Internet, satellite TV, and other technologies readily available, it's easier than ever to reach out to anyone, anywhere. The result: Many jobs require a deep understanding of other people and places.

That's good news if you'd love to see the world. "There has always been a certain mystique, excitement, and aura about traveling and especially working internationally," says Stephen Taylor, who has worked and traveled worldwide. As executive director of the International Business Center resource Web site (www.InternationalBusinessCenter.org), Taylor notes that overseas positions typically last 18 to 36 months and make a lot of demands--on time, effort, and personal commitment.

Still, a global career can be U.S.-based. Many companies, such as those that offer products and services internationally, seek world-wise employees.

Here's a glimpse into the lives of four people pursuing global careers:

Jessica Sapalio, American Red Cross Associate in Charge, National Youth Campaign of the International Measles Initiative

Home and Away: Based at the national Red Cross headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia, Sapalio travels with others to Africa about twice a year to see vaccination campaigns at work. "I work almost every hour of the trip and get very little sleep," she says. "It can be frustrating at times and not so glamorous, particularly when the whole team is hot, tired, sweaty emotionally overwhelmed, and covered in bug spray from head to toe."

Global Understanding: "My job is about helping young people make the connection that we are all global citizens who have a role in looking out for each other, the environment, and all living creatures," Jessica says. Still, communicating with the world isn't always easy. Recently, Jessica found that her team's cameras caused the Gambians distress. The people weren't used to having their lives recorded on film, and the Red Cross had to be sensitive to that.

Path to Success:

* In high school, volunteered at local Red Cross office.

* Majored in anthropology and religious studies, University of Pittsburgh. Studied abroad twice; served on the American Red Cross National Youth Council, which included designing the National Youth Campaign to support the measles initiative.

* Hired in 2001 by the Red Cross. Provides lunchtime presentations that keep staff up-to-date on world issues and projects.

Worldly Wisdom: "We all have so much to learn from each other."

Shannon Tanghe-Yoo, Visiting professor, The Catholic University of Korea

Home and Away: After growing up in a small Minnesota farm community and vacationing throughout the United States, Shannon was ready to see the world. She has spent four years in Korea, teaching English to children and adults. Shannon heads home annually and says she misses family and friends most on holidays (phone calls, E-mails, and letters help).

Global Understanding: Shannon met and married her husband in Korea. Raising her young son there--and having in-laws who don't speak English--are challenges that she views as exciting adventures. "It's a beautiful country, and the people are so kind and friendly," Shannon says. "When I teach my students, I feel like I learn so much from them too. Teaching abroad lets me combine two things that I love--teaching and traveling.... I have the greatest job in the world!"

Path to Success:

* Majored in elementary education, University of Minnesota, Morris.

* Taught abroad, first in Egypt, and then in Guyana, South America.

* Spent summers volunteering at a Korean children's camp. While teaching in Korea, earned master's degree in Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages/Multimedia.

Worldly Wisdom (from her father): "Do what you want, and the money will follow."

Hugh Davis, Chief Technology Officer Greenfield Online, Inc.

Home and Away: Davis is based in Greenfield's Connecticut office but has traveled to meet with clients and employees in Europe, Asia, and Canada. The work involves conducting on-line research for clients, such as a television news channel in the United States that recently wanted to expand globally. This entailed gathering data from surveys and recommending which events to cover in each country. Working closely with staff members in the United Kingdom and India, Davis ensures that information makes its way to clients.

Global Understanding:

"Learning about people and cultures all over the world is one of the things I enjoy most about my job," he says. The time zones do present a challenge, though. Davis's day begins at 6:30 a.m. so he can meet--through video-conferencing--with colleagues overseas.

"If my client is in Japan, I need to make myself available to them when they need me. Having a meeting at 1 a.m. is not an uncommon occurrence," he adds.

Since his company expanded internationally a few years ago, Davis says he finds himself "staying much more current on local news around the world. An event 5,000 miles away now impacts Greenfield Online." Every country has its own way of doing business, so he's constantly reading to learn more.