Should I become an exchange student?

Question

Hi, I'm currently in grade 10 and considering becoming an exchange student from September 2007 to January 2008. So, obviously, that would be the first half of grade 11. I would either want to go to Australia or Paris. The only problem is, I can't decide if I should. The pro's are I get to travel, my parent's would probably cover all costs, I'd get to meet new people, enjoy a different culture, have an extended summer (if Australia, my number one choice) and probably have an amazing experience. I want my best friend to come with me but I doubt her parents would let her. Assuming they won't (because there's no doubt in my mind that I would go if she could come), I'm not too sure if I should go. The cons I can think of are that I wouldn't make new friends, I'd be bored, I'd be homesick and because of this I'd do poorly in school. I'm also a little worried that my friends will become closer and forget about me.

I know it's ultimately up to me, but what do you think would be best?

Answer 1

You have thought this through rather well, congrats. And yes, the issues you raise do exist. Another one is the question of compatibility of the teachings and credits at the foreign school with what you need to graduate from your highschool at home.
Having said that, going abroad will give you such a jolt in your whole personal development, outlook on life, and self-confidence, that you'll definitely regret not having gone if you don't (well, you'd never know the difference, but I've gne on exchange programs al my life, and I come back a different person each time. Well, not different. Just more myself).
I'd say, "leap" - it's also a good way of fonding out who really cares about you. Those who don't know you anymore when you'r back may not have been worth knowing in the first place...

Answer 2

I know a few exchange students who missed the first semester or two of school in their country, and they did not get credit (so they had to take make-up courses when they got back home). The first thing I would do is make sure that you would get credit. If so, I greatly encourage you to go. It is a wonderful experience, and there will probably be other exchange students there that you can bond with. If you are worried about your friends then just make sure you have their e-mail addresses and that you send them pictures. Calling would be very expensive, but IM and Myspace would let you keep in touch.
If your parents will pay, I say go for it!!!

Answer 3

When I was in HS I passed up the opportunity and all of my close friends went at least once each. And I regretted it for a long time. I didnt get ovrseas until I joined the army. Not as cool. Anyway my friends that went did not regret it for a second and all of our friendships stayed intact. And that was all before email too, so it was harder to stay in touch. I say do it. You will meet people. You will be glad you did it. I have found that even those experiences that weren't all that super at the time become either good memories or something I look back and appreciate for what I learned from it. Hope this helps. Good luck!

Answer 4

i think that you should go and be en exchange student. it would be a great opportuity that not many people get. and think, if you get homesick call home everyday and im pretty sure that you would make new friends and not be bored. if you get a tutor (or a really good friend) you can catch up and not do poorly in school

Answer 5

I say go to Australlia by yourself. When I was an exchange student I made friends with the kids I was going with. Don't limit yourself to one friend. Plus, ask LOTS of questions and remember, when you are replying to a question about your country, remember you speak for the WHOLE country. Don't get ppl thinking we have weapons of mass destruction aight? ;) and have fun!

Answer 6

i think u should do it. i would've loved to have an opportunity like that. i'm really fascinated with cultures , but of course this is up to u. so u decide what you want.