<p>I recently posted my question under an existing thread but then thought that I should have posted it as a new thread (to better generate some input/responses). My S received a letter today about the "First Year Abroad (FYA) Fellows Program" which offers him the opportunity to study abroad in London, Florence, Valencia or Panama for his first year (up to 48 credit hours) at a largely all-inclusive cost of $39,500 (cheaper for Panama, and scholarships can be applied), and which, if he completes said first year program, will result in his tuition for the balance of his undergraduate years being changed from the out-of-state to the in-state rate. Can anyone advise whether this is commonly offered to a large segment of the incoming class (is it selective at all)? Other thoughts on the attractiveness of the opportunity or pros and cons? Thanks.</p>
<p>I received that letter recently as well. But I have no idea if it is selective or not... I thought it looked pretty intriguing, but I'm not sure I would want to spend my first year away from home in another country, and it's pretty expensive too. And FSU's cheapness is the main factor that would draw me there, so that kinda undermines my priorities with FSU. But I must say that it does look like fun.</p>
<p>my d recvd this as well. don't know if it is selective at all. my d also said, she would love to study abroad but definitely not her first year. most colleges offer study abroad opportunities -- my niece is in Mexico as a junior at Wesleyan and is loving it.</p>
<p>my d received it too last week, and she is very excited about studying abroad... but the program is expensive!</p>
<p>I’m very interested in this. How were their scores/gpa? Is it for overachievers or average students?</p>
<p>Anyone who is interested can participate. It is heavily promoted. Every new application and everyone accepted gets a letter. It gets great reviews. The only negative is starting sophomore year as the new kid on campus. It is great for out-of-state students, but the first year is pricey for those of us in-state.</p>