Anybody been on a student exchange to another country?

Question

A high school study abroad trip?

Where did you go?

Would you recommend going?

What was the best part? The worst?

Im thinking of going to Australia, anybody been?

Thanks!

Answer 1

Hey,

I haven't done a "Study-Abroad Program" or "Student-Exchange", but have traveled overseas to study.  Studying overseas is one of the greatest experiences you can ever extract from life. It really builds independence and understanding of culture and society on an international level. You are on your own and must fend for yourself, as your parents are not there with you.

It is a costly endeavor however, you really have to save money for tuition, accommodation, food, travel, shopping and other expenses. Be aware, if you are English-speaking you would have to go to a country where English is the prominent language, as many schools, universities, colleges etc. have proficiency exams in their native languages that you must take and pass if you wish to study there.

I am an American who is attending Graduate School in London and I must say it was one of my better decisions in life. Although it costs much, I thoroughly enjoy it. Australia is English-speaking so you should be set. Wherever you go, just have fun!

Hope this Helps!! Take Care!!

Answer 2

I havent been on an exchange yet. But I have been to Switzerland and Germany. I love the culture and they are both very beautiful places! Alot of people speak english there, so if you dont know german, you shouldnt have too much trouble getting around. I would recommend going to both of theses places. BTW I am going to Switzerland with my family this year and next year I am going on an exchange to germany.

Answer 3

Exchange student to Nagoya, Japan, through Rotary International (20+ years ago).

As a junior in H.S. (age 16)

Definitely recommend it!!!

Best: It changed the focus of my life from science and math to languages.  Instead of pursuing degrees in engineering, I did work in the theater and then got my MA in teaching English to speakers of other languages.  I teach ESL, and have been for over 15 years.

Worst: Major league homesickness in the third month (out of 11) right in the middle of my class's school trip.  I think I cried for a week.

Second worst: Getting on the plane to leave Nagoya with all of my friends staying behind.  I cried the whole way to Tokyo.

I cried a lot when I was a teen-ager. ;-)

If you can swing it, do an exchange.  Take the plunge and try somewhere that you don't expect to be relatively easy for you.  My original plan was to request Australia or England or New Zealand, but I met another exchange student from Japan, and for some reason, I requested it.  It really worked out.

BTW, many high school exchange programs do not require language proficiency; it's understood that learning the language will be a big part of your education.  I had no Japanese before I went.  I wouldn't have tried to do college courses in Japanese with what I learned in that one year, but I did well enough in my classes in the high school (with the help of friends and a tutor).

Good luck!