<p>So I can't do anything this summer, but I would love to do summer 2013 studying abroad in Australia (sustainable energy program) and summer 2014 in Scotland (more of an outdoors, cultural experience). The thing is, as always, money will be an issue.</p>
<p>My plan was this:</p>
<p>Summer 2012: Make money
Fall 2012/Spring 2013: Sophomore year + make money
Summer 2013: Australia
(repeat steps for Scotland, summer 2014)</p>
<p>Could I make enough dough to justify a $5000-6000 + $2000-3000 over the two summers? That would mean NOT saving for college, but also would equate to me not taking out loan money for summer.</p>
<p>Anyone have a similar experience, by chance?</p>
<p>“Bump.”</p>
<p>Any opinions? Any at all?</p>
<p>Only you know your financial situation.</p>
<p>‘Outdoors, cultural experience’. You mean a vacation?</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>Are you sure about that? Study abroad is now so common, especially among white girls majoring in the humanities and social sciences, that it hardly sets anyone apart.</p>
<p>And, pre-college study abroad doesn’t always have the impact on admissions folks that some think it does. (Works best when it’s a highly competitive program; better if the program funds your costs. Not when it’s pay-to-play.) </p>
<p>Since kids can study abroad during college, it’s hard to justify spending your own cash and not saving for college. Many colleges extend finaid to cover a chunk of these study away costs when it’s their program or one they approve. You can find a sustainable energy program in the US. You can visit Scotland when you can afford it.</p>
<p>Wait a sec- are you in college?</p>
<p>Scotland would not be a vacation. I would take classes pertaining to Scottish history, traditions, laws, and other various aspects of the culture and would also partake in outdoor activities. This is purely a “get the hell out of the U.S.” study abroad experience. I want to immerse myself in something other than ‘this.’ This is, obviously, something I can postpone. It is on the back burner, but it’s still something I would like to do.</p>
<p>It’s also a good thing I’m a physics/renewable energy major (white dude) and not a Caucasian female in the humanities/social sciences.</p>
<p>I would like to point out that, yes, I am in college. Didn’t think I needed to post that because studying abroad pre-college sounds like, and pardon my French, a snobby rich kid thing to do.</p>
<p>Lastly, I’m assuming someone deleted a post? That quote kind of came out of nowhere, “keepittoyourself.”</p>
<p>Someone did delete a post. But, the quote is the gist of it.
If you are an energy-related major or physics or whatever it turns out to be, the wisest choice is to get relevant job experience during your summers. The Scotland thing sounds delayable. I understand your desire to “get out” but (I’ll say this because DH just had the talk with D1,) sometimes it’s better to “get real.” Unless you are absolutely certain there is a job waiting for you, upon graduation. The Australia thing could be replaced with an equally effective US program- why not an internship in some other US location that attracts you?</p>
<p>I don’t mean to be harsh, but studying Scottish history and doing outdoor things, needing to get away from “this,” does sound a bit entitled. It doesn’t make any strong sense for an energy major. I’m all for travel and get what you’re saying. But make what you choose relevant. Once you get the start of the resume, then indulge. Just my opinion.</p>
<p>Allison, who is writing this blog about Australia ([Australian</a> Adventures | Students Gone Global Blog](<a href=“http://allisondziedzic.studentsgoneglobal.com%5DAustralian”>http://allisondziedzic.studentsgoneglobal.com)) should be able to help you out with any questions you have about the land down under.</p>
<p>Whatever link you tried sending me did not work.</p>