Going Global: An Around-the-World Adventure

This collage of short stories, poetry, and useful advice highlights key adventures and lessons from the author’s around-the-world adventure. Going Global is a must-read for anyone considering extended travel or service abroad. As the author surveyed the job landscape in her senior year of college, she found little that interested or inspired her. She did not desire a long commitment overseas. At the same time, she had no clear reason to stay in the USA. The post-graduation trip she designed with her best friend combined three core components – adventure, education, and service. They spent seven months roving around the developing world, volunteering across Latin America, Africa, and Asia – yet, though adventurous, they were not lost or aimless. During their time abroad, they actively constructed foundations for their lives and careers as passionate global citizens. Whether you are an adventure-hungry college student, a wild-at-heart professional, or an any-age vicarious traveler, expect Going Global to compel you to take risks.

J. Rae Cortese was the oldest of four children in a mostly-normal suburban household. Born in Memphis, she relocated to Lancaster, PA in 3rd grade. An avid pianist and soccer player, she graduated in 1998 and embarked for UVA. While at UVA, her horizons broadened considerably. As a sophomore, she won a Harrison Undergraduate Award for independent research. She volunteered for a summer at a hospital in Ghana, an experience that laid the foundation for her undergraduate thesis, focused on malaria treatment across Ghana, and also stimulated her excitement for development. She graduated from UVA with highest honors, earning a BA in Economics and an Echols (Independent Study) BA for her thesis. After working at a public relations firm in Washington, DC, she set off for her trip abroad, seeking clarity on her future career and academic studies – MBA, Ph.D. in Economics, or MD? In her “Leap Year,” she had a natural inclination for international business. After completing the trip, she spent two months delivering flowers, working at Outback Steakhouse, and applying for jobs in Corporate America. At the same time, she had a growing desire to return to South Africa. Deciding once again to take a risk, she bought a ticket and went down to seek work. She lived in South Africa on-and-off for approximately two years, working with an American foundation on business development and a South African business on employee benefits. Simultaneously, she assisted Habitat for Humanity in a worldwide office evaluation. In addition, she led Small Business Week 2004, a public-private SME development initiative designed by the Swiss government, South African government, 20 major corporations and parastatals, and 5 small businesses. When Small Business Week ended, she sailed on a 44-foot catamaran from Cape Town to the southern Caribbean. Ms. Cortese is currently employed as a management consultant with Bain and Company in Atlanta, GA.