How do I convince my parents to let me do a language immersion program?

Question

I'm 14 and in 9th grade. I'm on the honor roll and involved in a lot of different activities and clubs after school. This is my third year taking Spanish and I think it would help me a lot if I could actually live in the culture. My parents however think I'm too young and it's too expensive. I think it would be good for my future and my school work. My Spanish teacher thinks it's a great idea and my next door neighbor's friend Carrie thinks it's an excellent idea and that I'm just the right kind of person to do it. I'm going to try and get a job so that I can pay for most of it if not all of it. Only serious answers please, I would really love to do it, I just don't know how to convince my parents to let me.

It's not as expensive as I thought, I found a program that was only 900 some dollars for 4 weeks. I already have 300 some dollars.

Chef- Why don't you stop being a jackass and just answer the question properly

Answer 1

First, it is very expensive and you could not find a job at your age that would pay even a small portion of the cost, which includes transportation, rent, food, etc. If they could afford it I would expect your parents would consider it.

Just because a teacher or a friend or a neighbor thinks it is a good idea will not convince your parents to allow it. Immersion programs are great but I think you need to be a little older. In the meantime perhaps you could volunteer at a center for new immigrants trying to learn the English language.

And start saving and perhaps by your senior year you will have enough money or you can find a scholarship program that will pay those expenses.

By the way are you even aware of the cost of renting a home or a mortage, the cost of power bills (gas, light, water), the cost of food, clothing, etc. Perhaps your parents have other priorities that will one day include the extreme cost of sending you to college.

Answer 2

Your parents have some legitimate concerns. An immersion program can be very structured and safe. It can also be an opportunity to 'cut loose' in another culture. Your host family is not your mom and dad and they won't try to rein you in like they do their own kids. So there are dangers. It is also a great learning experience. But not as strong as you might imagine: usually, there are other kids who speak your language in the program and you all gravitate towards a social life together, in which you speak English!
You want to know a real immersion experience? Go to Spain and get a job working as a maid or au pair for a family in a town where you don't know anyone at all who speaks English. It's sink or swim, linguistically speaking. You can't afford to live the wild life and you'll get fired if you are just there to have fun. And you work your butt off! In addition, it'd be good if in your off hours, you took some college courses at the local Spanish college - and really be challenged.
Best advice... do this when you are older.

Answer 3

I don't know if it would convince your parents or not but if you really want to go keep doing the research. Find a reputable group to work with and know all the details they can give you. Get the summer jobs and start saving up.

But while you're working that angle also look into other options. Maybe volunteer at an English as a second language program. Or to work with younger kids who are studying Spanish. Explore other options like having an English immersion student from a Spanish speaking country.

Whatever you do, showing that you're serious about this will help more than anything else. If it's within your parents' ability to send you it can be a wonderful experience.

Answer 4

The program really sounds interesting. It's really nice that your teacher and your neighbors friend are trying to encourage you. However, at 14 you are still the responsibility of your parents and any major decisions regarding your well being should be made by them. Frankly, with all of the hazards regarding travel, terrorism, ect., perhaps they are considering that above the expense. You are very precious to your parents, and they will probably support you at a later time when they feel you will be able to care for yourself in a foreign situation. Congratulations on your wonderful grades and all you have accomplished so far. It sounds as if you will benefit just as much by continuing what you are doing at home, growing and developing your skills, and wait for a more appropriate time and age to pursue this endeavor.

Answer 5

You really do not know the culture, if you think going to mexico to learn more about it. try some spanish families here in the usa, where they all are coming here to do better for them selfs.at 14 i think your too young, they put people in jail for the smallest things, and demand money, I only say this is because your parents wants to protect you.I do not blame them.because I have a 14 year old my self. when you are perhaps 17 or even 18 maybe you can join a group of teengers go in a group.

Answer 6

bueno mija,
1st of all let me say that you are a smart young lady and to continue doing good in school . i understand that you want to explore and learn new things regarding the Spanish culture, but $900+ dollars is a lot . your parents are right about you being only 14yrs old. i suggest, if this is what you want to do is start saving money . i don't know if your parents can afforded it ,but you chipping in would be a plus. when you reach the age of 18 and you still feel the same way you go for it! take theses years to save money and continue to do good in school.

Answer 7

Have you had your Spanish teacher speak with your parents? Maybe they could start a fundraiser that will generate enough money for you and one of your parents to go too. My main concern as a parent wouldn't be the cost, just your age and worrying about your safety. That's going to be the hardest thing for you to tackle and smooth over with them. However, I'm sure your Spanish teacher would have the answer to that question. I hope you get to go. It would be a great experience for you. Life-changing. Good luck!!

Answer 8

Can you have the same experience a year or two down the road? I'm sorry.......this "all or nothing" mentality is what teens do the most. Wait for the proper time, save your money, go when you are more mature. Having good grades doesn't necessarily mean you are mature enough. Your parents love you and want you safe. You must respect them and respect that. End of discussion. Period.

Answer 9

I think your parents are facing the fact that you are growing up but I have to admit that if you were my child I would also say no. I have three grown children and ten grandchildren and if faced with what you are asking I would be afraid for your safety as well. You also don't give any details about whom you would live with, if you would have a chaperon and other things pertinent to the question.
Could it wait another year or two? Maybe then your parents would be more receptive to your desires.

Answer 10

Well have you show en your parents the benefit of doing the program and where it will benefit you and your education. Tell them your willing to work hard to get the money to fund this project that is important to you. Maybe you could ask your teacher if she is willing to explain the program and how you would be a good can date for this project. Maybe your parent would be more willing to go the extra mile for you.Hope I could help.