Foreign Study Winners and Losers
There are hundreds of student exchange and study abroad programs and organized student tours available. Most programs offer a rich learning experience. However, some don't seem to measure up to their advertising claims. How do parents and students sort through the options? Please share your experience with foreign study. Was your program or tour worthwhile, or just a waste of time and money?
- Please don't post questions here. Use our Travelers Helpline.
TEFL Prague
I am going to enroll in TEFL Prague during the Jan-Feb session. I am hoping to procure a job in Eastern or Western Europe and would love some advice. I am really looking forward to the experience because I have taught in the States but feel as though I need to do something more adventurous.
Kindra Stanfill <email>
Denver, CO USA 09/13/2009
Study on the Greek Island Paros
If you're an art student interested in studying abroad in paradise, look no further. HISA (Hellenic International Studies in the Arts) is a small American study abroad art school on the Greek Island Paros. I studied here this semester and it is absolutely amazing.
Paros gives you all the benefits of a Greek Island without all the crowds. The weather is nice, the program costs include travel to other islands, and housing in very nice apartments. The curriculum gives you freedom to explore whatever art interests you have. Also, they will work with you to make sure you get credit at whatever university in America you go to. They are accredited through the Massachusetts School of Art.
Lauren
CA USA 05/17/2009
German 50 + at Goethe Institut
Interested in German language and culture? Are you 50+? [There are also options for students of any age, etc.]Consider one of the delightful and reasonably priced programs offered by the Goethe Institut at several locations in Germany. Designed for beginners to fairly advanced German students, the courses are a great way to advance your language skills, experience great cultural attractions, and enjoy a foreign immersion experience -- all at a very reasonable price.
In October 2008 I spent two weeks in Dresden, Germany, part of a group of about 20 folks from all over the world. The group ranged in age from 50+ to 85, but not surprisingly, all were pretty fit and mentally sharp. We had to speak German -- it was our only common language. The course itself cost 750E, and museum trips, a ballet at the Semper Oper, a movie, and side trips to Leipzig and Meissen were included. Lodging was available for 300E. Evenings we'd head out for a local restaurant. Everyone learned quickly how to order "ein kleines helles" or "ein grosses dunkles".
I always wanted to study abroad when I was a student and couldn't begin to afford it. Better late than never! Highly recommended! I plan to take another GI course in another location, maybe or maybe not one designed for "oldies".
Annette
Media, PA USA 03/17/2009
St. Deiniol's Library
I spent J-Term of my senior year in grad school doing independent research at St. Deiniol's Library in Wales. It's the only residential library in Britain - live in one wing of the building and study in the library at the opposite end. They had so many resources available there that I didn't have access to in the States. I was fortunate to receive a scholarship for my 4 weeks' stay there; their rack rates are quite reasonable.
Andrea
WY USA 03/17/2009