<p>I'm seeking some advice on 2 issues. I will be a rising college freshman this summer, and I will be 18 by this coming summer.</p>
<h1>1</h1>
<p>I have a bit of a dilemma, I'm torned between staying home and spending quality time with the rents and siblings and going abroad via a summer abroad program... My parents say that they are fine either way (they're working all day anyways). Would it be more productive to just stay at home and take some classes or go abroad for some research or something?</p>
<p>Staying home: More time with family/friends, possibly ability to take higher level university courses.</p>
<h2>Abroad: New experiences, new people, new culture, more structured, more accomplished, opportunity to learn a new language. </h2>
<h1>2 If abroad to the above question (I'm leaning towards abroad)...</h1>
<p>What are some programs that offer study abroad/intern/lab/field study options for students? The ideal combo would be both an internship and coursework. </p>
<p>I'm looking mainly for something in a non-English speaking country. Although if there are any nice programs in non-US, English speaking countries, let me know too. I'm fairly decent with several languages and can (usually) pick up languages in foreign environments very quickly, so language should not be a huge issue. I'm mainly looking to go to a non-English speaking country to pick up a new language and to get some exposure to a different culture.</p>
<p>My budget is fairly flexible, but less is always better.</p>
<p>As a Senior this year I am facing the same decision. Personally, I REALLY want to do something besides stay at home but I can't seem to find anything. If there's anybody out there with suggestions, please help us both!</p>
<p>About the study abroad program... you're going to meet a ton of new people in the fall anyway. And studying abroad during a normal college semester is now more popular than ever. I would say just relax over the summer. Perhaps get a job or internship, but don't take classes already. Just focus on enjoying your last few months with your friends and family.</p>
<p>This is something I'm considering doing for after high school (I'm taking a full gap year). :) (I have a special fondness for Ecuador... that's a big reason for why I have chosen this organization. Maybe you'll think otherwise about it.)</p>
<p>Look at it this way, you have your entire life in front of you (college, occupation, etc.) You only have so many years to spend with your family (parents, siblings, etc.). Don't take that stuff for granit. I just lost my dad in early August to a heart attach, lost my uncle un January, and my grandmother in late October. Enjoy every moment with your family, college will come eventually.</p>
<p>hey,
Thanks for the advice guys. I'm leaning towards the abroad route because I'll get probably a couple of weeks at home too, so it's not like all summer. Also, I'm definitely looking forward to picking up another language, since I'm afraid it will get harder as I get older :(.</p>