Ok, what's your situation??? Are you willing to relocate - at least for a short time?? Assuming he's a US citizen, he can get you in as a visitor for a few months. Then, you could apply to a uni here, and be a student. Not much of a language barrier. What have you got to lose??? If you don't hazzard a try, you'll live the rest of your life wondering. As to working? do you have any salable skills? The Uk embassy in D.C. hires Uk nationals. "Me neighbour" is from Edinburgh, and has worked for them for years here. I suspect that the Oz and Canadian embassies do similar. There are jobs at all of them that US nationals (like me) are not allowed near - cypher clerk for the ambassador for one. Some of the MI-5 and MI-6 positions similarly. You would have a 'leg up' for any of those. I presume that you could pass a security check. You will find that things are cheaper here, living costs (even around D.C.) are lower than much of the Uk, and there is a large Uk expat community. You're only young once, why not give it a try. He probably feels the same as you do. I had a similar opportunity ages ago, and for a couple of reasons let it go. I've regretted it ever since. If he doesn't, you've lost nothing. Next time, make an approach faster - when you sense you might be compatible. Best of luck - Cheers.