For high school students, spending a semester or academic year in another country can be much more than a change of scenery. It can be an opportunity to experience a different culture, develop independence and gain a broader perspective on the world before heading to college.
Photo: Vitaly Gariev/PEXELS
Imagine being 16 or 17, moving to another country and going to high school there. Doing homework in another country is a lot more exciting than here in the states.
SNS - For high school students, spending a semester or academic year in another country can be much more than a change of scenery. It can be an opportunity to experience a different culture, develop independence and gain a broader perspective on the world before heading to college. The ASSE International Student Exchange Program offers qualified students ages 15 to 18 the opportunity to study abroad for an academic year, semester or summer in countries throughout Europe, Asia, North and South America, Australia and South Africa. Students live with volunteer host families and attend local high schools, becoming part of their host communities while experiencing the culture and routines of everyday life in another country. The experience can challenge students to step outside their comfort zones and develop independence, resilience and confidence. Living and studying in another country also can give students experiences that distinguish them when they begin the college application process. Students are selected based on academic performance, character references and a genuine desire to experience life abroad. Prior knowledge of the host country's language is not required. Students develop language skills through daily interaction with their host families, classmates and others in the community. Scholarships are available and are based on academic performance, leadership skills and financial need. The exchange program also provides an opportunity for American families to host international students. Students from Spain, Italy, Germany, Ukraine, Thailand, Japan and other countries can attend a local American high school while living with a volunteer host family for an academic year or semester. Host families are carefully screened as part of the program. For participating families, hosting an international student provides an opportunity to introduce a young person to American life while developing a connection with another culture. ASSE, a nonprofit, public benefit organization, is dedicated to promoting closer ties of friendship between the United States and other countries by fostering intercultural understanding through youth exchange programs. Students and families interested in learning more about becoming an ASSE exchange student or host family can contact ASSE at 1-800-736-1760, visit www.studyabroad.asse.com or email asseusawest@asse.com.