Choosing a study abroad program is not easy. AmeriSpan encourages students to take control of the process and not get trapped into selecting something that’s not right for them.
Philadelphia, PA (PRWEB) December 28, 2005 -- Choosing a study abroad program is not easy. Students are encouraged to take control of the process and not get trapped into selecting something that’s not right for them.
To help students with the process of researching, choosing, and applying for a program, study abroad veterans are happy to share “4 Steps To Choosing The Right Study Abroad Program”. Following these simple tips can help ensure that students have the best possible international study abroad experience, whether they want to study Chinese in China or learn Portuguese in Brazil.
4 Steps To Choosing The Right Study Abroad Program:
Step 1: When & What Works For You? In order to find a study abroad program that meets your academic, financial, and personal needs, you need to clearly define your goals and constraints. What is it that you want to accomplish? When can you go? What can you afford? While your dream may be to study Spanish in Barcelona, does it make more financial sense for you to learn Spanish in inexpensive Guatemala at this moment, and try out that new knowledge while taking a semester abroad in Spain next year?
Step 2: Where To Go? Select a location before you select a program. Atmosphere is a key ingredient in the overall learning recipe You will learn more in an environment where you feel comfortable. Are you a big city person or do you prefer small towns? What do you like to do outside of class? Do you prefer a busy nightlife or fewer distractions from your studies? Are you interested in Latin American indigenous cultures or are European cultures more enticing?
Step 3: Which Programs Meet Your Needs? Research and compare details. Not every international study abroad program is right for every student. When evaluating, we recommend that you answer the following: - What are the deadlines, start dates, and payment policies? What are the requirements? (language, grade point average).- Are the elective courses taught in English or the local language? - How large are the language classes? - Where is the campus located? (near a city center, public transportation., etc.).- What facilities are offered? (on-site cafeteria, computer lab, library). - What are the housing options? - What out-of-class activities and excursions are offered?- Are volunteer or internship opportunities available?- What other services are included? (travel protection program, mobile telephone).- What type of transcript is provided? (US college or foreign university).
Step 4: Who Puts It All Together? Independent organizations and private/state universities both provide study abroad programs at foreign institutions worldwide. In your research, you may find that the program you want is offered by several organizations. Select the one with the best service and value, and that you feel the most comfortable with. Remember that you will be studying far from home.
You will have a better time learning Spanish or studying Italian in a foreign land if you are confident with your agent. Here are some issues to keep in mind when evaluating different study abroad providers: - Are they reputable? Ask for references, how many students they send, and years in business.- Are your inquiries or concerns answered in a complete, friendly, and timely manner? - Do they demonstrate a good understanding of the location and the finer details of the program? - Do they provide extra services? (excursions, mobile telephone, in-country transportation, extra activities, other lodging options, etc.)- Are the payment and cancellation policies flexible? (credit cards, late registration, postponements, etc.)
These are the 4 basic steps. Sure, there is more to think about before studying abroad, but if students follow the above advice, they will be on their way to selecting an excellent study abroad program and one that is right.
For more information about international language programs or study abroad, contact Dorioara Pinku or visit http://www.amerispan.com/
About AmeriSpan:A US-based, International Education Company that provides a wide range of experiences in Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia, the Middle East. 25,000 people of all ages have participated with AmeriSpan. Language Immersion Programs; Volunteer & Internship placements; Teen options & International Summer Camps; Academic Study Abroad; Specialized programs combining language with dance, art, culture, cooking, sports, business, medicine, education, and social work.
Contact:Dorioara PinkuAmeriSpan215-751-1100 ext 305 http://www.amerispan.com
