A graduate's economic tale from South Korea

When I graduated from college in the spring of 2008, just as the economic meltdown began to fester, I felt invincible. I held my journalism degree in one hand, a healthy dose of confidence upon my shoulders and enough enthusiasm for every soul in my graduating class.

So things were a little tough in the realm of job-searching, but what did I, personally, have to fear? With my experience at four internships, as editor of our collegiate magazine and with published pieces to boast about, I shouldn't have had a problem landing the perfect job.

Wrong.

I applied to every local newspaper, magazine and publication in a 50-mile radius. I gentled tapped on e-doors to check on the status of said applications. I even called -- with my most professional voice -- to see if the position was still open and with a sigh pressed the "end call" button when they told me that "Yes, the position is filled."

I'm fortunate enough to say that I did get one bite. And, with the help of an insider friend, I landed the job. It was a small newspaper, one that required at least $30 for gas a week, but it was in my field. And I felt lucky while my other journalism friends kept searching.

Two months later, with soaring gas and food prices (and no expendable income), I started to feel like I wouldn't make it. I had a difficult time paying bills by the due date, which was not my style. Finally, I put my pride in my pocket and asked my family and fiancé for a little monetary generosity. Then I began the job search all over again.

One night, after several hours perusing listings, I happened upon a job that made me cock my head to the side.

"Teach English in South Korea," it read. I mumbled a skeptical, "Huh," but looked further. And then I applied. A week later, South Korea called.

I soon discovered that traveling abroad to teach English as a second language had become a rite of passage for many fresh college graduates. After weighing my options, I put in my two-week notice, packed my life into two suitcases and headed for the Korean peninsula.

Fast-forward seven months.

Sure, the economic meltdown has affected the entire globe and I, too, can feel the sting (especially when transferring money to pay student loans). To make due, I've learned to become more frugal in my spending and more grateful for what I already possess. Times are scary. But through painstaking decisions and a positive attitude, I have no doubt I'll make it safely to the other side.

My situation may sound unique, and perhaps it isn't a common tale. But I made my circumstances work. I even managed to pay off a credit card along the way. Perhaps there is hope, after all.