Studying Abroad as a Junior in HS - too early?

Applying to College
1

<p>Hi,</p>

<p>I'm currently a sophomore and am planning on going away in the summer through the Rotary exchange program. My primary goal is to learn spanish, immerse myself in a different culture, and to help diversify myself in college admissions. </p>

<p>Recently i've been more and more excited about going for 6 weeks, but I'm also beginning to think: would a semester abroad be more effective in not only learning the language and culture, but in admissions?? </p>

<p>Again, I mean a semester, so about 4-5 months. My concern/reason im posting this is that I'm not sure if I'm too young - I'm only 16. I'm worried I won't be able to handle being away for so long and seeing my friends having so much fun w/o me etc. Thanks so much if you read this far, any stories or advice welcome </p>

<p>PS - my main motivation is NOT to help myself get into college, I actually REALLY want to study abroad for the experience. The boost for college is more of a bonus</p>

2

<p>Go for it! I studied abroad a couple of times. On one of my first trips, one of my best friends was a 17 year old girl from Holland. There were quite a few people the same age, so you won’t be alone. As for whether you can deal with being away for so long…it might be easy for you or difficult for you, depending on what you’re like as a person.</p>

<p>In terms of really learning Spanish and getting the most out of your experience - the more time you spend abroad, the better. You will learn more Spanish, and learn a lot more about Spanish culture. A semester abroad is far superior to a short-term stay.</p>

<p>I think admissions will look favorably at your stay abroad. Don’t worry about how they see a short-terms stay vs a semester. Go for it, learn and enjoy! </p>