Study
abroad transforms the way a teen looks at elds of study - and lifeStudying
abroad is not just for college. More and more high school students are making the leap
overseas for summer programs or for a semester or gap year. As many students, parents and
guidance counselors have discovered, this is an opportune time to develop valuable lifelong
skills, learn a new language and discover career interests in a way that is not possible in an
everyday classroom environment. Perhaps the ultimate opportunity for personal growth,
studying abroad also expands communication skills and helps students understand different
cultures and ways of living.
Not sure study abroad has crossed your teen's mind? Surf the web together for resources and
get on mailing lists for brochures. CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange), a
nonprot that operates high school study abroad programs in more than 30 global
destinations, is a good place to start. Transported to a world far different from their own, teens
nd themselves fully immersed in a new topic and a foreign culture. Programs range from
three weeks in the summer to a full semester or academic year.
Planning ahead is key. By involving a teacher or counselor in the discussion early on, you'll
ensure a smooth transition to and from the study abroad experience. It also gives you more
time to plan nances and research scholarships to make the opportunity possible. Do your
research sooner rather than later: Organizations like CIEE offer scholarships based on merit
and nancial considerations, but be sure to check the application deadlines so you don't miss
out.
To learn more about CIEE's Global Navigator High School Study Abroad program and
available scholarships, visit ciee.org/globalnavigators.