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.