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Students Programs Study Abroad American Participate High School

Id ESLPod_0806_CN
Episode Id ESLPod 806
Episode Title Essential and Optional Things
Title Study Abroad Experiences
Text

Each year, approximately 300,000 American students participate in "study abroad" (a program where a high school or college student spends a few months or one year going to school in another country) programs. A recently published list shows the 10 best "destinations" (places to go): Italy, Spain, France, Germany, Japan, Ireland, England, Brazil, Switzerland, and Argentina. Of course, American students can participate in study abroad programs in other countries, too.

Sometimes students simply go to a regular university in the foreign country, but others attend special courses to study the language and culture of the country. Sometimes the programs include "excursions" (short trips) to important sites within the country or region, especially on weekends. The programs might also organize events in the evening, such as going to the theater or a concert.

Many study abroad programs include an "internship" (opportunity to work with professionals in one's chosen field), especially for business students. These programs usually require that the students have a high level of "proficiency" (ability to communicate) in the local language.

Sometimes students stay in "dorms" (dormitories; student housing), but other students choose "home stay" arrangements, where they live in the home of a local family and eat meals with them. Participating in a home stay generally offers the best opportunity for full cultural "immersion" (being surrounded by something) and language-learning. However, it can be difficult for older students to adapt to life with a "host family," especially if they have been living "on their own" (independently; without others) for a few years.

Topics Daily Life | Travel

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