GETTING STARTED GUIDE
YAYYY -You already did the first step of becoming an exchange student. Which is showing interest in becoming one, and taking a look at our getting started guide. Preparing for an exchange year can be a very overwhelming process and its hard getting started. But... Were here to help!
This starter Guide should help you figure out what exactly you want from your exchange year: Where you want to go, how long you want to stay, how much you (your parents) are willing to pay and if an exchange year is even the right thing for you!
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Embarking on an exchange year is a life-changing adventure that opens doors to new cultures, friendships, and personal growth. Follow our step-by-step guide to kickstart your journey.
1. Self Reflection
The first step in our guide is self reflection. You want to do an exchange year because of reasons, for example:
-new friendships
-new culture & cuisine
-new experiences (become more open)
-friends of you have done it
-your parents want you to do it
-academic goals
Before diving into the details, take some time to reflect on what you hope to gain from your exchange year. Consider your academic goals, cultural interests, and personal development aspirations.
Its important to have strong reasoning for an exchange year, firstly because it is always good to know why you are doing something, but also because its easier to reason with your parents if they are not on the same side as you.
2. Research Destinations
Our second step is finding the right destination for you. One of the most popular destinations is probably the USA. Everybody wants to live out the american high school dream, maybe even you? It is really important though that you pick the destination that you prefer and what helps achieve your goals. While thinking about the destinations keep in mind these points:
-do you want to improve a language (English, French, Spanish....)
-do you want to help people or animals in need
-do you want warm climate, cold climate
-what kind of hobbies do you want to continue practicing (e.g. skiing -->cold climate)
-where are programs which could advance you academically
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Explore our curated list of popular exchange destinations. Consider factors such as language, culture, climate, and academic opportunities. Narrow down your options based on what resonates with you.
3. Program Types
Our third point is to understand the various program types available. Whether you're passionate about academics, eager to learn a new language, or seeking cultural immersion, there's a program tailored to your interests.
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Its important here go go back to your self reflection to understand which program would fit best for you.
If its hard for you to decide which program fits best for your interests, it is also good to decide together with you parents, or ask your close fiends which know you well.
4. Budgeting Basics
A point that so often can get overlooked is the finances. Even as a Teenager you should be able to understand some Budgeting basics which will be helpful when planning you year abroad.
It helps you get a realistic understanding of the costs associated with an exchange year. You will need pocket money through tough the year and there are also other financial costs that can appear.
This then gives you the opportunity to explore potential scholarships, grants, and fundraising options to make your dream financially feasible.
4. Application Process
If you have decided which program to choose and which organisation you will use, you already did the hardest steps. Now its important to contact the regarding organisation and to apply for the program of your dreams.
The organisation will take care of everything after this point. They will stay in contact with you until the day you depart and even during your exchange year you will have people form the organisation to talk to, in case anything happens.
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Its also important to apply soon enough, because popular programs might be sold out really quickly , since often there is only a certain number of people allowed into programs.
5. Language Preparation
If your chosen destination has a different primary language, start preparing now. Brush up on language skills through online courses, language exchange programs, or local language classes.
This is important because it will make the start into your exchange year easier. The beginning is always hard, but if you already know how to to basic communication in that language it will help you a lot!
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There are also many online language learning platforms such as Duolingo which has many languages. You will learn them in a playful way, which makes the process of learning easier and more fun.
6. Connect with Alumni
Connect with alumni who have been through the same process. Their experiences and tips can provide valuable insights into what to expect and how to make the most of your exchange year.
Learn form their mistakes and get advice on packing, cultural insights and much more.
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Also chat with other exchange students in our Forum, which want to go through the same process as you, and may even have the same questions as you. Who knows -maybe you'll even find people that are going to the same destination as you!
Click on the button below to get to the chat room.