<p>Would it be beneficial to actually go as an independent student or through a study abroad program if going to China, Japan, Korea...?</p>
<p>slipper:</p>
<p>Dartmouth's programs are a little limited, IMO. They don't have a ton of programs outside of the traditional European destinations. It's actually a good example of how relying heavily on a school's own programs can be limiting. It is possible to do non-Dartmouth programs, but the Dartplan schedule limits those options a bit.</p>
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Would it be beneficial to actually go as an independent student or through a study abroad program if going to China, Japan, Korea...?
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<p>Unless you have a strong background in one of those countries and languages, I think most college students would feel more comfortable in an organized program for at least the first visit to those particular countries. All of them are quite demanding. My daughter said that staying with a Chinese family and studying in Beijing required her to be "on" and exerting a lot of mental effort 24/7. I think it might have been tough without the familiarity of a support group. Also, many of the opportunities may not be easily organized without some local knowledge.</p>
<p>I've travelled independently in Japan. Loved it. But, it was hard work.</p>