What If Working Abroad And Career Progression Could Go Hand-In-Hand?
When we think about career progression, we usually imagine a straight path – titles, promotions, polished LinkedIn updates. We may not imagine that doing something adventurous and “out-of-the-box” – like becoming a working nomad – fits into that linear path. But what if real growth doesn’t come with a pay raise… but with a plane ticket?
That’s exactly what I discovered during a two-month adventure in Costa Rica, where I worked as a Program Trip Leader with the company Rustic Pathways for U.S. high school students. Like with all of my jobs, I got this job via networking. The experience combined outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, and meaningful mentorship – and it reshaped how I think about work, purpose, and personal growth.
A Wild, Beautiful Classroom
Costa Rica became our classroom, and nature was the teacher. From white-water rafting and rappelling through waterfalls to surfing, ziplining, and bungee jumping (pictured below), every day working abroad in Costa Rica brought a new thrill. But the trip was about more than adrenaline.
We spent several days camping on a remote island off the Osa Peninsula, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. We arrived there by kayaking four hours across open water – well, I kayaked the whole way (along with the other two instructors). The students, bless them, gave it their all… but all had to be towed by the support boat…LOL. Yet we all made it, and the reward was unforgettable.
At night, the ocean transformed into something out of a fairytale. We swam through bioluminescent waters, where every movement lit up the sea in bright green and glowing blue – like swimming through stars. It was pure magic.
And the wildlife? Absolutely surreal. We regularly saw scarlet macaws flying overhead, howler monkeys shaking the treetops, and sloths and iguanas lazily lounging around like locals. One of the most visually stunning places we visited was Río Celeste (pictured below), a bright turquoise river whose color is created by a rare chemical reaction between volcanic minerals in the water – a natural phenomenon that has to be seen to be believed.
Mentorship in the Middle of the Jungle
Though the scenery was jaw-dropping, what made this experience truly meaningful was the relationships I built with the students. I mentored them through homesickness, culture shock, personal struggles, and self-doubt. I watched them face fears and grow in confidence. I saw them connect with each other, with the local communities, and with themselves in ways that simply don’t happen in a classroom or on a resume.
There’s something powerful about removing the distractions of everyday life and being immersed in nature, challenge, and culture. It creates space for real transformation – for them, and for me.
Career Growth While Working Abroad Can Look Like This
This journey reminded me that career development doesn’t have to mean staying inside the lines. Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is step outside your comfort zone. Additionally, many employers look for leadership skills, and what better demonstration of leadership than leading groups of high school students through the jungle?! Plus, a unique experience like this is bound to make you stand out among other candidates and give you super interesting anecdotes to speak about during interviews. And don’t forget – it was only two months! You could take a sabbatical or pursue a short-term opportunity like this between jobs.
Such short-term opportunities abroad – like seasonal jobs, remote work stints, or ethical volunteering – can honestly lead to incredible personal and professional growth. You’ll gain confidence, cultural insight, and a fresh perspective that no desk job can offer. You might even find a completely new path forward.
Thinking About Becoming A Working Nomad?
If you’re feeling the itch for something different, here’s what I learned:
✔️ Keep an open mind – The path might not be linear, and that’s okay.
✔️ Explore unique opportunities – Think beyond “normal”: work-exchange programs, travel leadership, nonprofit projects, and more.
✔️ Don’t be afraid to go out of the box – Unconventional choices often lead to the most rewarding outcomes.
So I’ll ask you this:
Have you ever seriously considered using a short-term work experience or volunteer program as your main break during the year?
Hi, I’m Megan, your Work Abroad Specialist and working nomad. Ready to explore your options for living and working abroad but not sure where to start? Whether you want to become a working nomad or just test the waters, let’s chat! Book a 1:1 Work Abroad Exploration Call with me here: www.calendly.com/megancassel
I also help people find and evaluate ethical volunteering opportunities, plan meaningful sabbaticals, and design intentional journeys abroad. If that resonates with you, feel free to book a call – I’d love to support your next adventure.
Want to learn more about me? Click here to get to know my story and approach.