Dear Gentlemen of the forum,
I am writing this because I would like some advice.
Background: I moved out to Alberta 3 months ago, promptly when I turned 18 and immediately got into a trade (electrical.) I did this as a way to be productive while I decide what I really want to do - school or the like.
Now, most people would argue that I should stay working in the oil sands and build up a trade/some technical experience. And while this is a good option, with a good amount of money to come in; I just don't desire the work. I definitely do not see this as something I see myself doing long term, so what is the point of learning a trade I don't want to do in the future for work (same boat as cubicle loathing.) I'm able to "man-up" and stay for now, but I'm just trying to envision a path where-in I can harness skills that will benefit my career as well as happiness ie: find a job I enjoy. Which leads me to my next point, I like to learn as well as teach.
Having just spent 2 weeks in Mexico, the highlights of my trip would be cultural immersion, language development and helping locals learn English. I stayed in Hostels and was able to hone in my skills a bit; and in that time period I went from almost zero Spanish, to being able to communicate in small conversations and reading a decent amount. I obviously still have a lot to learn pero estoy apprendiendo (but I am learning.) I enjoyed it so much I contemplated skipping out on my flight back and staying to learn the language. I feel it would be beneficial and I would probably learn a lot if I took language courses for 4 months in Mexico/SA. After that I was contemplating a working holiday visa/studying in another country in Europe. Perhaps Germany, as German is a language I've been interested in learning. I am also interested in Mandarin and Arabic, as well as spending time/working in the Middle east; though this is far down the list as I do not know about the real opportunities or work for young expats.
Now I've read a LOT and would just like some advice so I can make an informed decision as what to do.
Options I am aware of:
- Language studies in Mexico/SA (possibly teach english, but I think I am too young for a CELTA and don't have a BA.)
- Study/Work in Europe
- Volunteer abroad (suggestions?)
- Continue to work in the oil sands as an electrician
And any other options you guys may identify with that I do not know of right now... just trying to make the most of my time, becoming the strongest version of myself while maintaining a happy mind and healthy lifestyle.
Thanks in advance.
I am writing this because I would like some advice.
Background: I moved out to Alberta 3 months ago, promptly when I turned 18 and immediately got into a trade (electrical.) I did this as a way to be productive while I decide what I really want to do - school or the like.
Now, most people would argue that I should stay working in the oil sands and build up a trade/some technical experience. And while this is a good option, with a good amount of money to come in; I just don't desire the work. I definitely do not see this as something I see myself doing long term, so what is the point of learning a trade I don't want to do in the future for work (same boat as cubicle loathing.) I'm able to "man-up" and stay for now, but I'm just trying to envision a path where-in I can harness skills that will benefit my career as well as happiness ie: find a job I enjoy. Which leads me to my next point, I like to learn as well as teach.
Having just spent 2 weeks in Mexico, the highlights of my trip would be cultural immersion, language development and helping locals learn English. I stayed in Hostels and was able to hone in my skills a bit; and in that time period I went from almost zero Spanish, to being able to communicate in small conversations and reading a decent amount. I obviously still have a lot to learn pero estoy apprendiendo (but I am learning.) I enjoyed it so much I contemplated skipping out on my flight back and staying to learn the language. I feel it would be beneficial and I would probably learn a lot if I took language courses for 4 months in Mexico/SA. After that I was contemplating a working holiday visa/studying in another country in Europe. Perhaps Germany, as German is a language I've been interested in learning. I am also interested in Mandarin and Arabic, as well as spending time/working in the Middle east; though this is far down the list as I do not know about the real opportunities or work for young expats.
Now I've read a LOT and would just like some advice so I can make an informed decision as what to do.
Options I am aware of:
- Language studies in Mexico/SA (possibly teach english, but I think I am too young for a CELTA and don't have a BA.)
- Study/Work in Europe
- Volunteer abroad (suggestions?)
- Continue to work in the oil sands as an electrician
And any other options you guys may identify with that I do not know of right now... just trying to make the most of my time, becoming the strongest version of myself while maintaining a happy mind and healthy lifestyle.
Thanks in advance.