Summer Study Abroad Programs: Direct Enrollment Thoughts
My daughter is about to enter her junior year of high school, and she’s interested in joining a study abroad program this summer. I’m still learning about the options available, and it seems there are many organizations (like CIEE, Putney, etc.) offering summer programs worldwide. While the variety is impressive, the costs can be quite substantial—often around $7,000 or more for just 3-4 weeks.
From what I’ve seen in the itineraries of the programs I explored in Spain and Latin America, it looks like a lot of the activities involve group outings to cafes and museums, offering some cultural exposure but not much in the way of serious language instruction.
This leads me to wonder: why not go the direct route and enroll my daughter in the University of Seville or Malaga University? The course fees there are significantly lower—possibly a third or less than those charged by the program providers.
I realize my daughter will need to adapt socially without a pre-established group of high school peers. However, both universities have options to place international students with host families, and she’s quite adept at making friends. This approach could provide her with a more authentic, immersive experience.
I’d love to hear from the Reddit community—am I overlooking any important benefits of the CIEE-type programs? Your insights would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Your thought process about this study abroad experience is very insightful! There are definitely pros and cons to both options you’ve outlined, and I think it ultimately depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for your daughter.
Choosing to enroll directly in a university like the University of Seville or Malaga can indeed offer a more authentic and immersive experience. As you mentioned, the costs can be significantly lower, and the academic environment might be much richer. Plus, living with a host family can provide invaluable cultural exposure and language practice.
However, programs offered by organizations like CIEE or Putney can have their benefits as well:
Structure and Support: These programs often provide structured schedules, which may ease the transition for a high school student. They usually have a support system in place, which can be comforting for both parents and students.
Safety and Supervision: For younger students, these organized programs often have staff who monitor activities and provide guidance, which can be a plus for parents concerned about safety.
Social Opportunities: Being in a group with fellow students can lead to quicker friendships. While your daughter is good at making friends, some students might find it easier to have a built-in cohort as they navigate a new environment.
Cultural Activities: While some itineraries may seem like simple outings, many programs include culturally enriching scheduled activities, classes, and workshops that might not be as easily accessible on a direct enrollment basis.
Language Instruction: While you may have concerns about the amount of language instruction in some programs, others do offer intensive language courses that can significantly improve her skills in a short time.
Ultimately, if your daughter is ready for a more independent adventure and you feel comfortable with her navigating a new environment, enrolling directly might be the way to go! It could lead to a richer cultural experience. On the other hand, if you think she’d benefit from a bit more structure and support, one of the organized programs might be a better fit. It’s wonderful that you’re considering her needs and preferences carefully!