SYA Independent Travel

HI Everyone,

I was looking for some more information on SYA (School Year Abroad) in high school from some alum or parents of kids who participated. I heard about the independent travel and it seems really interesting to me, is it hard to earn these ‘privileges’ as a student? Also, you can go with friends, does that mean you could theoretically go with a gf/bf - would probably make much more advanced relationships than regular high school ones. Is there a limit to travel, every weekend, only three day weekends? How far can you travel, do you have to stay within Europe, or can you explore Asia / Africa also. Also, drinking laws are much more lenient in Europe, especially Italy. How does the school regulate substance abuse? Is it a big deal, or is drinking a part of living in Italy, as 16 y/o+ can legally buy and drink wine and beer. Any other comments or information about SYA would help, the program sounds amazing!