There are some fascinating summer study abroad programs to choose from. They range from Spanish language immersion in Peru, to wildlife conservation experiences in the Galapagos Islands. This can make it difficult to choose the right program, however. Hopefully, the following information may benefit you if you’re feeling somewhat overwhelmed.
Where to Go
Only you can decide where you want to go. You need to be realistic and understand that a summer study abroad program is not a vacation, but rather an opportunity to work and learn. That said, you will have plenty of time off to enjoy your surroundings as well. So consider the locations that are on your bucket list and use that as a starting point to find a program.
A lot of schools will offer their own study abroad programs, but you can also go outside of then. In fact, these programs are even available for those not in school. So the first thing to do is to no limit yourself. You’re going to go on an amazing journey of self-discovery and exploration, so you need to make sure you pick what is right for you.
Preparing for a Summer Study Abroad Program
Secondly, you need to make sure you have your travel documents in order. At the very least, you will need a valid passport, which has been a requirement to reenter this country from the Caribbean, Canada, and Mexico since January 23, 2007. Depending on where you go, however, you may also have to apply for a visa. Secondly, there are the medical releases. Some countries have mandatory vaccinations, others recommended. And you may also want to consider taking antimalarial tablets, depending on where you go.
Where to Stay
The passports, visas, and medical releases are all relatively easy to obtain. Next, you will have to pick your accommodation. Usually, programs offered for students wanting to go abroad for the summer have accommodations included in their packages. However, you should still investigate what this accommodation is like and whether it is suitable for you. If you have chosen a program without lodging included, you need to put arrangements in place yourself. The internet is a fantastic resource for this, with numerous websites dedicated specifically to lodging for students going abroad for short periods of time.
One last thing to consider is that you could do something really out there and off the beaten track. You may, for instance, be able to participate in an ocean voyage for the summer. This is commonly offered through conservation charities, but equally through cruise ships. It all depends on what your personal interests are. If you are a marine biology student, then the conservation option is the best one. If you’re studying hospitality or tourism, for instance, then go for the cruise ship. Doing so means that you will have the opportunity to visit many different locations at the same time, which truly is the opportunity of a lifetime.