Posted 27 Feb 2009

Graduates who are planning to avoid the gloom of the recession by volunteering abroad are setting themselves apart from rival jobseekers by thinking outside of the box, according to one expert.

David Santulli, executive director of volunteering firm United Planet, said that as job offers are thin on the ground for new graduates, one way to stay ahead of the crowds is to volunteer aboard.

Those who volunteer abroad could also gain some valuable work experience, the expert adds.

"This is an excellent time for people to strengthen their resumes and expand their international expertise while making a vital contribution to the world community," he explains.

Mr Santulli continued: "When the job market is tight, it’s an outstanding opportunity to think outside the box."

One individual who agrees with Mr Santulli is US medical student Richard Arlow, a medical student who described his volunteering abroad stint in Ghana as a chance to "do something meaningful".

Category: General Travel