Expert: Julia C Taylor - 10/18/2009

Question
Hi! I am currently in school seeking a bachelor's degree in either Spanish or International Studies. I would really love to live in Mexico but I am not sure if I could find a good paying job there with one of those majors. I was wondering if either one of those majors would help me find a good job in Mexico. I don't know if I would want to be an English teacher. I was thinking about either working for a U.S. company in Mexico or the U.S. Embassy. So, basically I guess my question is can I find a good job and live well in Mexico if I major in either Spanish or international studies? Thanks so much for your time!

Answer
Hello Mercedes,

I don't really know how far a degree in International Studies can take you, but honestly, it doesn't seem like it would be a big help. There are plenty of Mexicans with similar degrees and they have trouble finding jobs because there aren't enough jobs in Mexico for all of the Mexicans with degrees.  I think it would be hard to convince the Mexican Immigration that you can do a job that Mexicans can't do.  Just to further discourage you (sorry), even if you do get a job in Mexico it will pay you much less than a similar job in the US.

I think your idea of working for a US company or in the US Embassy could be a good way to get a job that pays well in Mexico. I don't know how highly paid employees of the embassy are, but you could research that directly with them -- as well as their requirements for education and experience.  If you would like to work for a US company in Mexico, you have to start in the states. Get a job with a company that has a branch in Mexico and get transferred to Mexico.

As far as a degree in Spanish, I don't think that would help you the way you would like. Everyone in Mexico already speaks Spanish, so how does that give you an edge?  It might provide you with a MINIMUM requirement. You can't do very many jobs in Mexico if you can't speak, read, and write Spanish.  

I'm sorry to be a wet blanket -- but that's why you are doing your research ahead of time, right?  Your dream of going to Mexico is a good one. You may find that you choose to work in Mexico for a year or two just for the experience, but don't count on making much money.  Do keep in mind that the cost of living in Mexico is a bit lower than in the US -- but it can be hard to save for retirement, etc, etc.  Also, plan well. Times are tight in Mexico right now.

Best of Luck to you,
Julia C Taylor
Author of Mexico: The Trick is Living Here (a guide that includes how to live on a budget in Mexico) and creator of www.home-sweet-mexico.com