[jess887]

I am a college student majoring in international relations and diplomacy. I am interested in working in the field of international adoption when I graduate. I lived in Europe for four years and met many families who had adopted from countries such as Russia and the Ukraine, and I became very interested in the process of international adoption. I was wondering if I would be able to get a job in this field with just an international relations degree, or if a degree in social work is required as well. If anyone has any information about that it would be very helpful.

[maryjane_wi]

I am also very interested in career opportunities in the international adoption field - most specifically in Latin America (Mexico, Caribbean, Central & South). My work (administrative/sales support) and educational (close to completing a double degree in Latin American Studies and Spanish) backgrounds are probably not the most desireable, but I think that my cultural and language backgrounds would be an asset for that type of position. Along with being fluent in English & Spanish, I also have intermediate fluency in French and beginner's fluency in Italian. I work with some women that are going through the adoption process and think that I have an idea of what role I would be best suited for - depending on the required qualifications. What educational requirements do I need to have and/or what "job title" would be closest to what I am looking at? Any ideas and/or leads would be appreciated!!

[tammyBoyer]

Hi Jess: as an MSW and MA in international affairs and working in adoption/child welfare; yes, you can work in the field without a MSW and there are lots of options! First, consider what you want to do. Would you want to travel a lot to host countries? Great! With your language skills you'd be a critical resource as a translator and facilitator. You could even market yourself (once you have some adoption agency and in-country experience) as a consultant to agencies or privately to parents to travel as a facilitator and set your own fees. If you want to work for an adoption agency; your International skills are great for helping clients understand political/legal process and navigating the system there. You can case manage and help refer parents to services. Then, there is also the field of intl adoption advocacy; state dept. any of the non-profit national adoption groups (email me and I'll send you some ideas) and don't forget related legal or medical intl adoption groups like JCICS. You'll need to learn about adoption/legal and some child welfare issues but MSW is not necessary. Good luck and feel free to contact me! Tammy