In our increasingly global economy, it is essential for employment counselors to understand the similarities and differences between careers in local communities and those in other parts of the world . This special issue of the Journal of Employment Counseling (JEC), coedited with Debra Behrens, showcases work being done locally and internationally .
Young Phang and Lee's concept map examined social support among working mothers in Korea . Εlebarska, Moser, and Gunnesch-Luca also investigated the impact of social support, but their focus is on unemployed individuals in Bavaria, Germany . Bullock, Braud, Andrews, and Phillips explored the career concerns of unemployed U . S . war veterans, a unique subset of individuals who are repatriating after an international work experience .
In this issue, we are also piloting a new section, "In the Field," for short articles and contributions relevant to the practice of employment counseling . Behrens describes an interview workshop that is customized for international graduate students in the United States . Neault reviewed Working World, a book that provides tips and resources for individuals considering careers in international education, exchange, and development . Finally, Furbish, Neault, and Pickerell provide an international perspective on the Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF) credential, briefly describing three unique GCDF programs in New Zealand, Canada, and the United States . At the request of readers, we have also added an index of the articles published in the Journal during the volume year .
Together, these articles and "In the Field" contributions provide a snapshot of individuals' experiences of studying, working, or being unemployed across four continents, under very different circumstances . However, in all cases, the complexity of the interaction between work and other life roles and experiences is clear . To fully support clients whose ideas about careers were formed in other countries (e . g . , immigrants, international students, expatriates), those who are considering studying or working abroad, or those repatriating from an international experience, employment counselors need to understand subtle differences in expectations, needs, job search methods, thought processes, and lived experiences .
As JEC editor, I would like to thank each member of our editorial review board for their wisdom and volunteer time . Each of them reviews submissions, guides the direction of the Journal, and contributes professional insights . They also bring a global perspective to this journal . Our reviewers are based in four countries; several regularly speak at international meetings; and, between them, they trained employment counselors on five continents in 2009 .
I am sure that all editorial board members and JEC authors join me in appreciating the contributions of Fiona Glendinning, our editorial assistant . She has done a wonderful job of streamlining the article submission and review process for 2009 and beyond .
Finally, I would also like to thank you, our JEC readers; your insights and suggestions continue to shape the Journal . We hope that this issue continues the JEC legacy of providing employment counselors with timely and practical guidance .