Westerner in his remote village. But the loneliness was never overwhelming. He studied Japanese sign language on the side and improved his rudimentary Japanese speaking skills by befriending locals. Temporary teachers who feel they can't complete the commitment, usually a year, can opt out, but if the program has paid for their airfare, they may be assessed a penalty of several hundred dollars. Or maybe you just want to have fun.
Experts suggest devising a plan for re-entry to reality.
That is, if you come back. Shannon McKee graduated in December 1992 from Texas Christian University and decided to sign on for six months with Norwegian Cruise Lines before starting business school in the fall. Six years, three promotions, and dozens of ports later, McKee is working 16-hour days as cruise director aboard the Norwegian Majesty. She puts out the daily ship newsletter, involves passengers in poolside games, and oversees the captain's cocktail parties. Business school is nowhere on the horizon.