Is it hard to be accepted into an exchange student program?
Two years ago, my family hosted an exchange student from Brazil. Since then I've wanted to be involved in an exchange program. I'm only a Freshman in high school, but I'd like to go my junior year. I am currently involved in my school's band, chorus, a cappella, drama club, school musical, and tennis, so I think I have extra-cirricular activities down. I take Spanish two, so I'd like to know what are some good Spanish speaking countries to travel to. Also, what exchange program should I use? I've heard a lot about Rotary. Is it hard to be accepted? How early should I apply? It is harder to get into a six-month program or a full year program? Should I consider going to a country that doesn't speak Spanish? Thanks for the help. P.S. I'm from the United States, if that helps.
Studying Abroad - 2 Answers
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1 :
I think it all depends on what type of program you are applying for. Some are more academically-oriented than others, so some have stricter GPA requirements and the like. Spanish-speaking countries are good, however, because there are many programs available in that area. This means there are plenty of programs that you can apply to, and you are likely to be accepted by at least one. ;) I studied abroad in my junior year of college, and I would recommend that you apply absolutely as early as possible. Give yourself plenty of time. Even if you keep in touch with your study abroad advisor and all your liaisons (and you should), there are usually long delays between when you apply and when you hear back. Also, there are always unexpected delays and things that it is impossible to plan for. You cannot apply too early. As I said, I think a Spanish-speaking country is a good choice. Many people I know have had very good luck with Latin American programs. They seem to be very immersed in the culture, and they reported having good experiences. However, I went to Japan for my study abroad. It all depends on what you are interested in. On the other hand, your experience will be more meaningful if are familiar with the local language. Good luck~ hope that helps~
2 :
Spain is a wonderful choice and the program www.beautifulspain.com, one of the best if not the best of the programs offered abroad world wide. Location is a safe and most amazingly beautiful beach resort in Northern Spain. You can also check YFU although their programs are a bit pricey. Host families are extremely well screened and very loving. This program gets returnees year after year, so great it is. Cost is really reasonable considering everything included (as long as you sign up with this program through their web site as there are organizations that sell the same program for much more so high quality it is). Some of the activities and excursions it offers besides Spanish, cooking and dancing classes are: Guggenheim Museum, paella dinner, bullfight, fireworks on the beach, city tour, medieval towns, fishing villages, many beach days, Aquarium, tall ship vessel excursion, Roman village hiking trip, shopping, and much more. It offers you the possibility of enrolling with a friend with whom to share same host family home, or for you to stay alone at host family. Many host families count on children of similar age to participating students.
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