How to get your start in a global impact career

If you hope one day to work in foreign affairs, for the government, an international business, or a worldwide NGO (non-governmental organization), it’s never too early to start building real-world skills and a global perspective. Start with these ideas (and check out our Guide to Global Impact for more inspiration).

Clubs and programs for high schoolers

High school is the perfect time to explore different fields, industries, and career paths, develop your skills, and gain more confidence about the path ahead. Consider participating in extracurriculars like:

• Model UN: Uses role-playing and conferences to help you learn about the United Nations and how it functions. 
• Debate team: Develops research, public speaking, and critical thinking skills while exposing you to complex global issues.
• Community service organizations: Give you hands-on experience working with others to address real-world challenges.
• Foreign language clubs: Build communication skills and cultural awareness by offering an environment to practice new languages and explore global traditions.
• Student government: Strengthens leadership, teamwork, and decision-making skills while you learn how governance and policy affect your school community.

Have a more specific goal, like improving your language or leadership skills or learning more about a particular topic, such as the environment or global health. If you’re nodding your head, maximize your school break with a summer program! 

Student leadership summits, pre-college classes, cultural immersion, and volunteer programs provide amazing opportunities to work and learn alongside like-minded students. You’ll build self-confidence and independence, deepen your understanding of the world, and even leave with a better sense of your future academic and career path.

Benefits of studying abroad

Most students want to study abroad at some point during college, but in reality? Only a small percentage (around 10%) actually do. Living and learning overseas offers invaluable, practical experience that far exceeds the typical benefits of college life by allowing you to:

• Immerse yourself in another culture
• Strengthen your language skills
• Improve your cultural awareness

Better yet, you don’t have to wait until college to study abroad! You can broaden your education beyond the typical high school environment through summer programs, semesters abroad, and full-year gap programs. 

Gap year programs focused on global service and learning

Unsure about college? A gap year can provide the clarity and real-world experience you need before committing to a degree. Gap year programs focus on volunteer work, research, academics, language learning, and more.

After completing one of these programs, students report feeling more mature, self-confident, and better equipped to interact with people from other backgrounds and cultures. Spending a dedicated year on self-discovery and reflection can also increase motivation and drive once you return to school. 

When choosing a gap year program, especially one abroad, prioritize safety. Look for accredited programs that balance freedom and security. Focus on programs that encourage ethical traveling, blending sightseeing and exploration with meaningful engagement in local communities.

Attending college abroad

Already an adventurous and globally-minded student? These questions can help you weigh the pros and cons of attending college in another country for a semester or an entire year.

Internships and volunteering

Prepare for a global impact career now by pursuing internships and volunteer work in high school and college. Seek roles that develop your communication, research, and project management skills. Volunteer with a local nonprofit or complete a virtual internship with an international organization.

Whatever opportunities you choose, view each experience not as a simple check mark but as a rich, formative moment that shapes your path forward. Treat these opportunities like building blocks; every step — from a short-term exchange to a year-long volunteer stint —  will guide you toward a meaningful career and open up new perspectives. Be present, stay curious, and say yes to opportunities that stretch your worldview.