I got into FSU for spring 2016 and one of the options they give you is to study abroad in the fall prior to that semester. They have programs in London, Florence, Valencia, and Panama. I originally was going to go to community or online college for fall, but now this is looking like a really exciting opportunity. I really don’t have anything holding me to my hometown or anything; my closest friends have either moved away or are in college and tbh I kind of am itching to have a new experience. I was wondering if anyone has an experience studying abroad for their first semester of college, and what that was like. Did you make good friends? How did you grow? Was it hard starting at the main campus later? Focusing on your studies? Which location do you recommend? (thinking of London right now, but not sure) . Thanks xx
As a parent, I don’t like these freshmen study abroad programs. They were created (fairly recently) to keep effectively deferred students interested and invested (they’re not cheap!) Sure you’ll have fun, and pay through the nose for it. Personally, I think it’s better to do SA when you’re a bit older, have a major, some college-level language classes and a bit of life experience behind you. I think getting a start on your academics by taking community college credits in your first semester is a better idea. And if you’re still interested in doing SA as a junior, you will have that much more time to do some comparison shopping. Odds are, you can find cheaper options than the one FSU is currently offering.
Our friends’ son was accepted to a fairly high-ranking school on the CONDITION that he study abroad the first semester. I guess they want to fill holes left by students who leave school after one semester?
I see nothing wrong with it. Maybe a blessing in disguise.
Delete
Well an issue came up preventing me from going anyway, so that’s a bummer but its all good.