Studying Abroad? Help?!?

Sena Highman: That site looks dodgy to me. You should only travel with organizations that have a good rating with CSIET -- http://csiet.org. They regulate the exchange industry so you're not taken advantage of (financially) and/or placed in a dangerous situation abroad.Studying abroad in the UK is difficult if you're an American. (other nations to the UK are possible) A lot of the big organizations do not offer U.S. to U.K., another reason that site is a red flag for me - none of the top, reputable organizations I know offer U.S. to U.K. (in large part due to visa restrictions). Regardless, inquire with the following organizations:AFS: http://www.afsusa.org/study-abroad/CIEE: http://www.ciee.org/hsabroad/Rotary: http://www.rotary.org/en/StudentsAndYouth/YouthPro...YFU: http://yfuusa.org/american-students.phpAll of the above are in good standing with CSIET.Being an exchange student is absolutely worth it, but you have to be mature, ready for adventure and open to new exper! iences. If you're only interested in the UK, you really need to examine why you want to go. Many many teenagers have a fantasy of going to the UK for school -- I did too -- but it's not realistic. Being an exchange student can be challenging, especially emotionally, and most students go to a country where they don't speak the language and customs are vastly different.As for convincing your parents, if you are truly passionate about the idea and open to the experience, that will do a lot of the work in convincing your parents. When I was 15, I asked my mom if I could go to the UK. She said no -- I needed a reality check (at the time I had a crush on Prince William :P). A year later, I approached her about a scholarship program to Germany. She said yes immediately. I was shocked. She saw that going abroad wasn't just a passing fancy, but something I was really interested in. Going with one of the above organizations will also help you when you talk to your parents. They want ! to know you will be safe, and reputable organizations are requ! ired by law and regulation to screen host families, have a local representative within short driving distance to you in case of emergency, etc. Another difficult aspect can be cost. All of the above organizations have scholarships available, especially to countries "off the beaten path." Good luck!...Show more

Elvin Weichbrodt: Studying overseas is by and large the quality factor you might do. Traveling to different international locations is best, however you aren't getting an absolute think of the tradition and society untill you reside there for no less than 1 / 4. You will study such a lot approximately exceptional cultures and methods of lifestyles. It will rather difference your lifestyles. You will see America in a entire new mild. You will rather revel in one other nation and immersed in it. You would possibly not be watching at it like a traveler, who sees it as though he used to be on the zoo looking. You will likely be residing it, and finding out such a lo! t....Show more