Hi!
I am currently faced with a huge decision in my personal and professional life. I currently have two job offers, both with pros and cons of course. Firstly, a little bit about me. I am a 25 year old single female living in North Carolina. I recently graduated with my Master's in Clincial Psychology and am on the hunt for a fulfilling job in my field of study.
1. Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia- I have been offered a job at Serene Retreat Sabah as a Clinical Psychologist. This job offer includes decent (relatively low) pay, a small housing stipend, and round trip flight from my current residence. I love travelling and have travelled extensively in Europe and New Zealand, however, I have never been to Southeast Asia.
Pros: I really want to go. Gain experience working abroad in a mental health facility. More vacation time than in America allowing me the opportunity to travel around Southeast Asia. Experiencing a new culture.
Cons: Not knowing if this establishment provides quality mental health care. Should I visit a place before moving there for a year?
2. Nashville, North Carolina- I have been offered a job at Nash Correctional Institute as a prison psychologist. The job offer includes good pay but I would have to move out of my current residence to be closer.
Pros: Stable income. Great opportunity to work for the state. Good benefits including 401k and health care. Fantastic experience working under trained professionals that I know are providing great mental health care to its clients. I can work towards being fully licensed in North Carolina as a trained Clinical Psychologist.
Cons: I have to move out of my current residence. Only 10 vacation days which limits my ability to travel. Will I regret passing up the opportunity to live and work abroad? If I get too settled into my life and job here, will I ever move abroad?
I very much appreciate and and all feedback and advice regarding this decision.