Do the preparation task first. Then read the text and tips and do the exercises.
Preparation
The principal of a local college has asked you to write a report on the advantages and disadvantages of working abroad in the summer holidays. She would like to know if the college should recommend 'working holidays' to its students.
A report on students' experiences of working abroad
Introduction
Currently, approximately 25 per cent of Hawthorne College students work abroad during the summer break. This report aims to show the benefits and drawbacks of working overseas in order to decide whether the college should recommend the experience to its students.
To prepare for this report, a sample of 100 students were interviewed, 23 of whom had worked abroad. This is a summary of their comments.
Benefits
According to the students interviewed, working overseas during the summer holidays can bring several benefits. Most of all, students can improve their foreign language skills by working in a non-English speaking country. This may help them get a better job in the future. Additionally, learning about a different culture and way of life makes people more open-minded. A further advantage is that students may become more confident when they learn practical skills to help them live independently later in life, for example, finding accommodation and cooking for themselves.
Drawbacks
However, a large number of interviewees mentioned drawbacks as well. Students who need to study over the summer will find it difficult to do so while working abroad. Most significant of all are finance issues: only a minority of students are able to afford travel expenses, accommodation and visas. In addition, students may have to take low-income jobs if they are not fluent in the local language, so they may struggle to cover their expenses.
Conclusion and recommendation
Working abroad may improve students' language skills and confidence. However, students often need to earn money during the holidays to support their studies and working abroad may not provide the opportunity to save. Also, the cost of travel means that only students who are able to afford it have the chance to do this. Therefore, the college should only recommend working abroad if there is financial support from the college for students that need it.
Tips
- The basic structure of a report is usually the same:
- Introduction (including the purpose of the report and how the data was collected)
- Findings (including benefits and drawbacks if appropriate)
- Conclusion and recommendations.
- Use headings for each section.
- Use formal vocabulary (e.g. Currently, ... / in order to ... / Therefore, ...) to give the report a formal style.
- The ideas and conclusions should be objective. Use non-personal subjects (e.g. This report aims to … ) and passive structures (e.g. 100 students were interviewed).
- You can also use may to show that something is not certain (e.g. This may help them get a better job in the future).
Hello, why isn't there an article, 'the' before 'students' in the sentence 'Therefore, the college should only
recommend working abroad if there is financial support from the college for students that
need it.' ? The writer mentions a specific group of students.
Hello orhantorun,
You could use an article here. If you say 'the students that need it' then you are clearly talking about a specific group of students in a specific case. If, on the other hand, you do not use an article then you are making a more general statement which applies not only to these students and this situation but to students in general now (this group) and in the future. In other words, if there is no article then you are discussing a general rule rather than a one-off situation.
Peter
The LearnEnglish Team
Thanks a lot Peter!
Report on Working Abroad – Disney Work and Travel Program
Introduction
This report outlines my experience abroad, participating in the Disney Work and Travel Program in the United States. This exchange was a unique opportunity to live and work in a culturally diverse environment, while also improving my communication and customer service skills.
Location and Roles
During the program, I worked at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. My role was primarily in customer service, where I served as a Cast Member in one of the theme parks. My responsibilities included assisting visitors, providing information about attractions, and ensuring a magical and pleasant experience for all guests.
Challenges and Learnings
One of the biggest challenges was dealing with the diversity of cultures and languages. Since many international visitors frequent the parks, it was essential to adapt my communication to meet the needs of people from various nationalities. This also gave me the opportunity to improve my English and learn how to handle diverse and unexpected situations.
Another challenge was the intense work pace, especially during peak seasons. I learned to manage my time more efficiently and work under pressure without compromising the quality of service.
Personal and Professional Benefits
The experience in the Disney Program provided significant personal and professional growth. I gained a deeper understanding of American culture and acquired a global perspective on customer service. Additionally, the exchange allowed me to improve my English in a practical setting, which will be a valuable asset for future job opportunities.
Professionally, this experience taught me to be more proactive, resilient, and to work as part of a team in a dynamic and multicultural environment. These skills are essential for my career in customer service and in the international market.
Conclusion
In summary, participating in the Disney Work and Travel Program was extremely enriching, both in terms of personal and professional development. The program not only provided me with a unique experience in one of the most iconic workplaces in the world, but it also prepared me to handle challenges and opportunities in global settings.
I would love to study and work abroad, It would be a huge stepping stone. If I were given a chance to study or work abroad, I would definitely grab that opportunity.
yes ,for sure.
Yes, I would like to work abroad during my holidays.
Absolutely, that's reason I'm doing hard work in my English language. I'm improved a lot since 5 months. I'm interested in live in abroad because unfortunately in my country many unusual things happen frequently.
That`s really is good opportunity to learn the language, to meet new people, to save money, to see different places, to buy something. I think for me its not good idea, because I can`t save money :/ I`m with wide fingers :/. But I must teach of that soon. But its really good to be independent if you can :)