Articles of the Month

The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade "Discover a World of Opportunity!"

Many young people dream of travelling and seeing the world. Whether you seek work, educational or life experience, going abroad can expand your horizons. The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) offers youth and education programs that help young Canadians open their eyes to the world.

Are you thinking about a career in international politics, doing an internship outside Canada or simply working abroad for a few months to see new things? DFAIT has programs for you.

Under the post-secondary recruitment campaign, the Canadian Foreign Service is hiring 100 graduates to fill positions as trade commissioners, visa officers, political and economic affairs specialists and management and consular affairs officers. These positions involve promoting Canada's interests abroad.

International Youth Programs are for students and new graduates wishing to gain practical experience related to their training.

• The Working Holiday Programs and Student Work Abroad Program (SWAP) allow students to hold a temporary job for up to a year, and thereby broaden their exposure to the practices and customs of another culture.
• Co-op Education Programs are for students registered in an alternating work study program, and offer the option of remaining abroad for up to a year while earning credit toward a degree.
• Young Workers' Exchange Programs target young college and university graduates and give them a chance to do a practical internship related to their field of study.

DFAIT is involved with the following bursaries:

• Government of Canada/Foreign Government Awards
• The Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan
• The Canada China Scholars Exchange Program
• The Foundation for Educational Exchange between Canada and the United States (Fullbright Program)
• The OAS Fellowship Program

As you can see, DFAIT is involved in helping to develop Canada's youth. Look to it for information on how you too can gain international experience; it's up to you to choose your path in the world!

This article has been provided by Youth Café - A Service Canada Centre located in downtown Montreal that offers youth the necessary tools for a full and active social participation, all in one place.

The Café's mission is to offer better access to information, services, programs and ressources from most federal departments as well as the Youth Employment Strategy.

We ecourage you to visit Youth Café next time you are in Montreal or visit a Service Canada Centre near you.