A study abroad experience is one of the most exciting adventures for high school students. High school exchange programs give students the opportunity to learn from a unique perspective. Enjoying this experience in the best way possible requires appropriate preparation. You also have to know your expectations from the program. Before boarding the plane, here are some things you will appreciate before immersing yourself in a study abroad program.
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Know what to prepare
You have to prepare adequately for your study abroad opportunity before the departure date. How you prepare largely depends on your destination country. Ensure to talk with your program supervisor for recommendations. Ensure to learn as much as you can about your host country by covering things including food, security, cultural norms, and learn some basic phrases in the local language.
By this time, you should have applied for your passport and necessary visa. Before your arrival, register with the U.S. consulate or embassy in the host country. Visit the website for your program to discover additional information regarding accommodation and study experiences. Check for travel warnings and announcements for additional information about potential risk during travel.
Program cost
Studying abroad requires a substantial budget. The cost of the program depends on various factors including host country and school. Luckily, you can benefit from various scholarships offered for study abroad programs for high school students . You have to find an agency to guide you through the process of benefiting from these scholarships. This is a smart way to enjoy a study abroad experience without financial flexibility.
Culture and language immersion
One of the most significant benefits of the study abroad program is to get immersed in a new language and culture. However, you need to have a good start. Therefore, before you board the plane, do a Google search to discover what to expect. Perhaps you have been taking classes in the language of your host country. This is a good idea to give you pointers on having a meaningful immersion experience. As you are going to write lots of academic researches, essays and course works not in your native language, it’s a good idea to consider services like WowGrade to succeed in your academic endeavors.
Safety concerns
Travel abroad requires considering the prevailing security environment. Ask your program supervisor for security concerns that affect you during the experience. It is always a good idea to visit countries friendly to U.S students and travelers. To get peace of mind, check with the State Department for are specific security warnings. This will ensure that you stay safe in the best way possible throughout the whole experience.
What students who completed the program say
To ensure that the program will meet your needs, check for reviews about the program. What students who have completed the same program before say is very important. It offers firsthand information into what awaits you in a foreign country. Their great memories and newfound knowledge will be great inspiration to go ahead with the program. For some students who faced some problems, you can learn from their experiences to improve yours.
Transfer of class credits
It is very important to choose a study abroad program that won’t interfere with your regular classes. This keeps you safe from extra study to catch up for lost time. The trick is to choose a study abroad program with transferable credit. This means that you will be earning during your study abroad benefiting your home country classes too.
You have to talk to your program supervisor and school before joining a program. Transferable credits ensure that you remain at par with your fellow students in your home country school on coming back. However, transferability of credits usually depends on the choice of program. Talk to the program supervisor early enough to let home know that you need a program with transferable.
Know what to pack
Another important aspect of going on a study abroad program is knowing what to pack. Packing light is a skill for smart travelers. Therefore, pack light but without leaving behind anything you might regret not bringing. Ask seasoned travels or students who have gone on a study program before for handy tips on what to pack. It is better if these people have been to your host country before.
Understanding the environment of the country you are going to is very important. You have to pack appropriate clothes that will keep you comfortable. Additionally, pack clothes that won’t offend the local decency code. Carry some comfortable shoes since you are obviously going to walk a lot. Pack some toiletries that will last you for a few days until you find a store with your choice in the new country.
Bottom line
A study abroad program offers high school students a wonderful opportunity to experience life from a different perspective. Apart from choosing an appropriate program, you have to know how to prepare for the experience. This requires knowing what to carry, understanding the security situation, and knowing how to finance your study abroad experience