Is she seeking a language immersion/pursuit or cultural pursuit/life expansion? I would also consider programs in the summer in these countries that would accomplish either/both depending on the goal. Also consider how this might impact her friendships when she returns to school as she will have been gone for a yr or in the other scenario be reclassed. If she has tight friendships - she might not want to lose these. College study abroad programs have those 2 pathways - language and cultural experience and with age/maturity college age students prob get more out of these programs.