World Wide Schools: New Schools for a Changing World

The website “World Wide Schools” is a very unique and helpful site that features a directory of schools, but the title of the site is a bit misleading. This website is not, as the name might imply, a directory of every school in the world—that would be one big directory—but rather a directory of International schools. So what, you may be saying, is an international school? International schools can be found on almost every continent, offering a curriculum that is different from that of the host country. Many international schools are instructed entirely in English, using the same curriculum as the country that owns and runs the school, usually the US or a country in the United Kingdom. Other international schools may have bilingual instruction, using a recognized international curriculum that is generally accepted at universities worldwide. But regardless of the type of curriculum or language, if you need to do some research on international schools the World Wide Schools website is the place to do it.

Why Are World Wide Schools Becoming So Popular?

The concept of international or World Wide schools is one that is becoming increasingly popular these days, largely because the world is changing and becoming much less compartmentalized. Not only are there more opportunities right now, in places such as the US, Europe and Asia, for foreign educated and trained professionals, there are more and more businesses in the United States electing to expand their economical horizons and setting up shop overseas. This has a two-pronged and positive effect on the enrollment numbers at international schools. United States businessmen and women, for example, who have children and now live in countries around the world representing their company of employment, elect to send their children to international schools to ensure those children will be adequately prepared for the rigors of college. In addition, parents that are local to the international school, those parents who understand the opportunities offered by this globalization, are now opting to send their children to international schools to help prepare them for a better and more profitable future.

What Is the Purpose of the World Wide Schools Website?

The World Wide Schools website is designed to help people around the world find important international school information. The countries represented on the World Wide schools website include:

Austria

Belgium

Czech Republic

Denmark

France

Germany

Kenya

Russia

Japan

China

And many, many more…

Once you click on the appropriate country, you will be taken to a page offering general pieces of information regarding the schools in that country—information such as the curriculum and the grading system used. On this same page, along the left side of the page, is a clickable listing of all the schools in that region. Once you click on a school name, you will be taken to yet another page that gives specific school information, ranging from the start and end times of each school day to the average number of students in the class.

The World Wide Schools website is a remarkable resource for anyone, wherever they may live, to find both general and specific information on international schools, without ever having to leave the website.

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Why Study Abroad: A Look at Some of the Benefits of Studying Abroad

Why study abroad when I can study at home? This is a very popular and frequently asked question among students, but you may be surprised by all the fantastic reasons to study abroad—reasons that have been given by students who have previously participated in a study abroad program. To give you an idea about what you can expect, in this article we will provide a list featuring some of the key reasons to study abroad, as reported by students who have participated in these programs.

Why Study Abroad?

The number of reasons to study abroad is virtually limitless, but for the purpose of brevity, here we will merely look at some of the top reasons reported by other students.

Why Study Abroad? Broaden Your Horizons. The world is a vast and amazing place, but sadly, the majority of people will only experience a very small part of all the sights and experiences the world has to offer. From the Eiffel Tower in France to the Great Wall of China, the sights of the world and the cultures of its people are endless and are definitely a great incentive to participate in a study abroad program.

Why Study Abroad? Explore Your Heritage. Haven’t you ever wondered or had unanswered questions about the homeland of your ancestors? Study abroad programs give you the opportunity to visit the countries in which your family has roots and to learn the customs, tradition and language that have helped shaped who you are.

Why Study Abroad? Learn a New Language. Today, unlike any other time in our history, there is a strong interconnectedness between your homeland and the other countries in the world. Consequently, learning a new language, which is possible with many study abroad programs, can open up a whole new world for you, both culturally and professionally.

Why Study Abroad? Gain Insight through New Friendships. Many students who participate in study abroad programs will forge lifelong friendships that will help them gain a new insight and outlook on the world. Between the fellow students you’ll meet, the professors and the members of your host family, study abroad programs allow you to expand your network of friends and enjoy all the benefits that are inherent with these new relationships.

Why Study Abroad? Gain a New Perspective. In our day to day lives we tend to become immersed in the trials and tribulations of our own country. However, when you participate in a study abroad program you’ll be regularly exposed to a number of different cultures, traditions and customs, and that experience will help give you a new perspective of your own homeland and the life you lead in it.

Why Study Abroad? Financial and Professional Potential. Participating in a study abroad program can look great on a professional resume. It indicates to potential employers that you not only have cross-cultural skills that could benefit their company, but a strong commitment to personal growth and achievement.

So why study abroad? The better question is why wouldn’t you participate in one of these programs? Not only will you enjoy the personal experience of a lifetime, but that experience could very well benefit you professionally for years to come.

On-Campus Accommodations for International Students

Are you an International student who is planning to study at an American University? Do you still require additional information regarding the available accommodations for international students? Studying in America offers a number of unique advantages, but because housing in and around the campus tends to fill up very quickly it is vital that you make arrangements well in advance. To help make sure you don’t get “left out in the cold,” in this article we will list some of the more popular on-campus accommodations for international students, and provide some basic information regarding each of these options.

Accommodations for International Students: On-Campus Options

International students intending to study in the United States have a number of on-campus options. Some of these accommodations for international students include:

· Coed Residence Halls. Coed residence halls, also called dormitories or dorms in the United States, house both men and women students in the same building, but not, of course, in the same room. To maximize the number of people the residence hall can accommodate, most dormitories will house two students to each room—rooms that usually feature two small beds, a desk and closet space. Residents in the coed dorms typically share one of several community bathrooms and a community living area where students can study, watch television or play games. These types of residence halls, although a very new concept for most international students, are very popular in the United States, and fill up very quickly. Therefore, it is vital that you mail your housing application at the same time you are applying for school admission.

· Single-Sex Dormitories. If the idea of sharing your residence with students of the opposite sex is unappealing, you can also apply for residence in a single-sex dorm. Most universities do set aside at least a portion of their residence hall space to house men and women separately, but like coed dorms, these residences can fill up quickly, so time is of the essence.

· Housing for Fraternities and Sororities. If you are looking for accommodations for International students that are a bit more close-knit, you may want to consider joining a fraternity or sorority. Both offer a more socially active university experience, one which also stresses university and community service. If this sounds like the type of experience that would interest you, contact the university you plan to attend for additional details about “Rush Week,” the timeframe when fraternities and sororities recruit new members.

· University Apartments. Many universities have apartments that are located either on-campus or very nearby. These accommodations for international students offer a bit more privacy, however, because university apartments are so sought after, the competition for acceptance into these units can be very fierce, and are usually reserved for upper class persons and graduate students.

· Married Student Housing. For married students, on-campus accommodations for international students are limited to married housing units. Most major US universities will set aside a certain amount of housing space, which could include residence halls or on-campus apartments, for those students who are married.

As you can see, there are a number of alternatives for on-campus accommodations for international students, each offering a fantastic opportunity to make new friends and learn more about the American culture. However, because on-campus housing is such a popular housing alternative for both US and international students, it is imperative that you apply early to ensure acceptance.

Student Exchange Programs: Do You Know What to Expect?

Have you recently decided to enroll in one of the many exciting student exchange programs that are now being offered throughout the country? Do you know exactly what to expect once you’re a participant? Student exchange programs are not for everyone, but they are ideal for those students who are independent thinkers and who enjoy an interesting challenge. To give you an inkling of what to expect and all the changes you’ll experience, here we will outline some of the challenges and benefits associated with student exchange programs, including the drastic changes you can expect in your home life and your normal routine.

Reasons to Join Student Exchange Programs

Students decide to join student exchange programs for a number of reasons. Among them are:

· Academic Success. If you are planning to further your studies at one of the countries’ fine colleges and universities, being part of a student exchange program will look very impressive on your college application.

· Professional Reasons. Not only will your participation in student exchange programs impress the admission officers at the many schools you apply to, it will also look great on a professional resume. Among other things it shows that you are willing to take on challenges, and you are open minded enough to appreciate and embrace other cultures.

· See the World. Some students join the military to see the world, and others participate in student exchange programs. Participation in these programs affords you opportunities to see parts of the world you may not otherwise get to experience.

· Learn a New Language. Student exchange programs are ideal for those who want to learn a new language. Instead of learning from textbooks, here you’ll learn through total immersion with native speakers.

What to Expect in a Student Exchange Program

Many students go into student exchange programs not knowing what to expect—unaware what will happen when they fully immerse themselves in another culture. To help you avoid this fate, below are some examples of what you can expect as a participant in these programs:

· A New Family. Being part of a student exchange program means you’ll become part of a new family—your host family. During your stay you’ll live and share meals with them, and be introduced to their culture, food and customs. These are people you’ll remember for many years to come for the generosity they showed and for the wonderful resource they became during your stay.

· A Brand New Routine. Say goodbye to your old routine. In student exchange programs you’ll learn how to adjust to alternate ways of doing things—a challenge that many exchange students embrace.

· A Bit of Homesickness. It would be unreasonable to think that you won’t have at least some degree of homesickness, but once you adjust to your new environment this will ease up a bit and you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.

If you love challenges, and you appreciate the diversity and beauty of other cultures, being a part of one of the many student exchange programs that are currently being offered may be just the adventure you need.

Study Abroad: Are You a Good Candidate?

Are you a good candidate for a study abroad program? While many students assume that they have to have the highest grades in their class or be loaded with money to participate in study abroad programs, nothing could be further from the truth. Sure, most study abroad programs are seeking students with at least average grades, but even more important than your GPA is a willingness to learn and to try new things. As for money, you may be surprised by how affordable these programs truly are. Many organizations offer scholarships and financial assistance to study abroad candidates, and with thousands of host families throughout the world, many of your “room and board” type expenses may be 100 percent covered.

It is true that many study abroad programs have some academic requirements, but this does not mean you have to be Einstein-like to become eligible. Additionally, contrary to popular myth, most study abroad programs do not even have language requirements. What’s truly important to those who make the participant selections for study abroad programs is who you are as a person. Generally, a good candidate for a study abroad program is someone who enjoys new experiences—an independent and self assured person who enjoys meeting new people and is tolerant and accepting of other cultures. Those who enjoy a challenge are also great candidates, because the experience of studying in another country is bound to be fraught with new environments, circumstances and predicaments, all designed to help you grow both as a student and a person.

If you’re still wondering if you would be a suitable candidate for a study abroad program, try asking yourself the following the questions and see what you come up with:

· Do I like to try new things? This could include new cultures, traditions, customs and language, along with meeting new people and eating different types of food.

· Do I enjoy making my own decisions? When studying abroad, for awhile you will be without your normal support system, your friends and your family. This means you will need to be independent, making simple decisions such as what to eat and when to leave for school, as well as more important decisions such as how to cope with conflict and change.

· I am a risk taker? Let’s face it. Studying in another country can be intimidating initially, but the rewards are well worth any of the risks.

· Do I have a track record for dealing with complex situations? Through the course of your study abroad program you will be faced with many complex situations that are aimed to help you grow and mature.

· Will my current school accept credits from my study abroad program? While most colleges, universities and even high schools will accept credits from study abroad programs—and for good reason—it is always best to confirm this fact before applying to a program.

If you don’t like challenges or taking risks, study abroad programs may not be your cup of tea, but on the flip side, if you enjoy experiences that allow you to meet new people, absorb new cultures and think independently, these programs are definitely worth considering.

Off Campus Student Housing for International Students: Is It for You?

Are you a college student who is presently considering an opportunity to study abroad, in a foreign country overseas? Have you considered all of your housing options, including on-campus accommodations, staying with a host family and off campus housing? Study abroad programs are a fantastic way to see and experience the world, but in addition to the costs associated with attending a foreign school, students must also make arrangements for their housing—arrangements that can take many different forms. In this article we will discuss some of the housing options for international students, including what you can expect when living on campus, staying with a host family, and taking advantage of an off campus student housing opportunity.

International Student Housing Options: On Campus Accommodations

Students looking for the independence associated with off campus living may be deterred by some of the restrictions related to staying on campus. However living on campus does have certain advantages, including:

· Proximity. While off campus student housing is usually fairly near to the university, on campus accommodations, such as residence halls or dormitories, are located right on school grounds, close to classrooms and other university services.

· Meals. Most on-campus housing options include the price of meals—usually delivered in a cafeteria setting—with your tuition cost. Off campus student housing does not, which can quickly become expensive, especially if your program is to span an entire academic year.

International Student Housing Options: Staying with a Host Family

One of the more popular student housing options, especially among younger students, is to live with a host family. This is by far the most affordable housing option; however, it does have its limitations. Students studying with a host family are subject to that family’s rules, schedule and perhaps even a curfew, which could limit them from fully enjoying the university experience. On the other hand, staying with a host family does provide additional opportunities for cultural enhancement and language acquisition, as host families are very familiar with the region and usually very eager to improve a student’s overall study abroad experience.

International Student Housing Options: Off Campus Student Housing

Off campus student housing, which usually involves staying in a flat or an apartment, either independently or with friends, has several advantages. Students living off campus are free to come and go as they please, and are not subject to any particular schedule, save for their class times. This type of freedom may sound very attractive to some students, especially considering this may be the first time they have experienced this level of independence. However, staying off campus does have its drawbacks, including the price. Off campus student housing is usually the most expensive student housing option, and depending on where the apartment is located, getting to class everyday can become quite inconvenient.

Studying abroad as an international student, despite the type of accommodations you choose, can be a magical and unforgettable experience, but it does require a lot of preparation and careful planning. If money is no object, off campus student housing can be a wonderful way to enjoy this experience, but if saving money is important to you, you may also want to weigh some of the more affordable, albeit a bit more restrictive, options.

International Student Housing: Considering Your Options

International student housing is and should be one of the primary concerns for students studying abroad. And when it comes to international student housing there are essentially two basic options: On-campus international student housing or living off-campus in an apartment or flat. To help you decide which of these options is best for your particular situation, in this article we will take a closer look at both on campus and off campus living in more detail by pointing out some of the advantages and disadvantages to each of these alternatives.

Off-Campus International Student Housing

Not all students will be eligible for off-campus international student housing. In many study abroad programs students are required to live on campus unless they are pursuing a graduate degree or in instances where the student is married.

However, if you fit into one of these two categories, or if the study abroad program allows for off-campus student housing, your best housing option is probably renting an apartment or flat. Before you do, though, you may want to ask yourselves a few questions to ensure that a) you are eligible and can meet the requirements and b) this is the best living option for you. Ask yourself this when renting an apartment:

· Is there a lease involved? For their security, most apartments now require you to sign a lease before you can move in, and the majority of these leases have terms of either 6 months or one year. If your study abroad program is only for one semester, and you sign a one year lease, you may become financially responsible should you decide to move out before the terms of the lease are up.

· Does the landlord require financial documentation? To ensure you are financially able to make the required monthly payments, many landlords will require some type of financial documentation. This can present a problem for international students, and to qualify you may need to have a United States sponsor to cosign the lease and guarantee the payments.

· Are utilities included? Although formerly many U.S. apartments would include utilities in the price of the rent, few seldom do anymore due to the rising cost of electricity and water. This is an extra expense you will need to consider before making your housing decision.

On-Campus International Student Housing

On-campus international student housing, in residence halls and dormitories, is not only a more affordable option than off-campus student housing, the experience also has many inherent benefits, including:

· Amenities. When living in a dormitory there are many amenities to benefit from, including phone service, high-speed internet access and laundry facilities.

· Campus events. On campus international student housing keeps you close to the action, with on-campus events such as sports, concerts, lectures and more.

· Meals. Included in the cost of most on-campus international student housing is a flexible meal plan—three meals a day with a wide selection of food.

· Close proximity to campus buildings. Not only are students living on campus very close to campus classrooms, they also have easy access to other campus buildings, such as the library, student store, recreational facilities and computer labs.

Most study abroad program experts believe that on-campus international student housing enhances the experience of a foreign education. Living in a residence hall with others gives international students regular opportunities to participate in the total university experience and to make new friends with fellow residents.

International Exchange Programs for Teachers

Are you a United States secondary, elementary or college teacher with a strong interest to visit other countries and to learn the customs, traditions and language of their people? Would you be interested in teaching the English language and other subjects to students in this host country in exchange for this wonderful opportunity? If so, you may want to consider one of the many international exchange programs for teachers. In this article we will provide a bit more detail about how these international exchanges are structured, and highlight one such international exchange to give you a better idea about the program requirements and how to apply.

What Are International Exchange Programs for Teachers?

When most people think of exchange programs between countries, their thoughts immediately turn to student exchange programs, either at the secondary or university level. In that model, students from foreign countries participate in either a short term or long term program in which they study in a foreign country while living with either a host family or in some type of student housing. Actually, these student exchange programs are very similar to the international exchange programs for teachers.

International Exchange programs for teachers give educators the unique opportunity to teach English and other subjects in another country. The programs can either be short term, spanning 4-6 weeks, or long-term, in which teachers will remain in the host country for an entire semester or school year. Language proficiency is not required for these programs, but a strong interest to learn the language is definitely encouraged. Housing options can include living with a host family as many students do, but usually the teacher’s housing is provided by the organization that sponsors the international exchange.

International Exchange Programs for Teachers: One Example

One example of an international exchange for teachers is the program that is sponsored by the Rotary International Club, one of the largest and most well-known service clubs in the world. Initiated in 1992, this international exchange sponsors English teachers at the elementary, secondary and university level to teach English in Spanish, Portuguese and Russian speaking countries.

To date, U.S. teachers have been placed in over 50 communities around the world to teach 4-week sessions of English to speakers of other languages who could benefit from a working knowledge of the English language. This is a unique opportunity for teachers to experience the customs, traditions, language and culture of another country while simultaneously providing a valuable service as a teacher of English.

Applying for the Rotary Club International Exchange program is really a rather simple process, usually entailing an application and interview. Once accepted, teachers will be given ample time to prepare prior to their departure, and the Rotary Club will pay for round trip transportation, room and board, as well as any local transportation costs during their stay.

Aside from their teaching duties, teachers will also have the opportunity to participate in a number of cultural activities, as well as sightseeing ventures in the host country.

With this international exchange program and many more like it, teachers will not only help learners in the country they travel to, but they will usually become better prepared to serve the needs of international students at their home school, and become more versed in the challenges these students face.

Educators Scholarship: Financial Assistance for Aspiring Teachers

Have you ever thought of becoming an educator—a teacher with the opportunity to change the lives of your students for the better? If you have, you may be surprised by all the opportunities for financial assistance that are currently available, including many organizations that offer a full educator’s scholarship. In the article below we will list a number of these opportunities for financial assistance, including educator’s scholarship, grants and fellowships, with a brief description of each offering.

Financial Assistance for Educators: Scholarship, Grant and Fellowship Opportunities

AFCEA Educational Foundation

The AFCEA Educational Foundation’s educator’s scholarship is available to students who are actively pursuing an undergraduate degree or teaching credential for the sole purpose of instructing United States secondary school students in mathematics, science, engineering and technology.

James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation

Dedicated to producing exceptional teachers with a deep knowledge and appreciation of the United States Constitution, the James Madison Memorial Fellowship is an educator’s scholarship that is annually awarded to teachers of American History and Government, along with Social Sciences teachers pursuing a graduate level degree. The fellowship is awarded through a national teacher competition held each year.

National Council of Teachers of Mathematic

Each year the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics awards an educator’s scholarship for both elementary and secondary school teachers of mathematics who are pursuing a graduate degree. Teachers of mathematics are underrepresented in many teacher preparation programs, which is why many organizations such as this are so eager to offer these types of educator’s scholarships.

Barbara Latze Educator’s Scholarship for Future Teachers

The Barbara Latze Educator’s Scholarship is for undergraduate students who are either enrolled in, or plan to enroll in a program of physics with the purpose of teaching at the secondary school level.

Woodrow Wilson-Rockefeller Brothers Fund Fellowships

The Woodrow Wilson/Rockefeller Brothers educator’s scholarship is aimed at helping aspiring teachers of color earn their undergraduate degree and certification to teach at a K-12 school. The fellowship is awarded annually and is open to students who are currently enrolled and those planning to enroll in any teacher preparation program.

Lenore Annenberg Teaching Fellowship

The Lenore Annenberg educator’s scholarship is very unique in that it offers recent college graduates AND career changers financial assistance if they agree to work in urban and rural communities with a disproportionate number of disadvantaged youths.

The number and variety of educator’s scholarships is very impressive indeed when compared to the number of scholarships offered to students in other fields of study. This is largely due to the extreme need for qualified teachers in almost every state across the county. If you are either currently enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate or teacher preparation program, OR if you are considering returning to school to pursue a program or degree of this nature, there has never been a better time to do so. New scholarship opportunities are always being added, so for additional information about what is available in your area, you may want to speak to the Financial Aid office at the school you plan to attend.

Are You a High School Study Abroad Candidate?

Are you a high school study abroad candidate? Are you interested in a great adventure—an adventure that will allow you to see the world while earning valuable high school credits? If you’re a student who wants to combine exciting travel with the opportunity to study in a foreign high school, then high school study abroad programs can offer you a unique, once in a lifetime opportunity.

Are You a High School Study Abroad Candidate? A Few Questions

High school study abroad programs are certainly not for everyone, but they are for students who enjoy a challenge and can easily adapt to a change in their routine. If you’re currently pondering an opportunity to study abroad, answer the questions below to see if you might make a good high school study abroad candidate:

· Does the idea of learning how to speak a new language, while studying in a locale where that language is constantly spoke appeal to you?

· Do you enjoy challenges? Studying and living in a foreign country can be an amazing adventure, but unless you are completely open to new challenges—learning a new routine, making new friends, staying with a host family—then high school study abroad programs may not be for you.

· Does the opportunity to learn about other cultures interest you? Studying in a foreign country means that, for a time, you will be totally immersed in a different culture. Students who can appreciate the value of learning alternate perspectives about the world usually thrive in high school study abroad programs.

· Do you like to travel? The world is a vast and interesting place, but sadly, many people will remain fixed in one location their entire lives. If you think you’d enjoy traveling and seeing the world, and you simply refuse to wait until your “golden years” to do so, then high school study abroad programs are perfect for you.

Where Do You Want to Study?

If you’ve decided you would make an excellent candidate for a high school study abroad program, the next step is to choose a location in which you would enjoy studying. High school study abroad programs are offered in an abundance of locations throughout the world, including France, with a famous reputation for academic excellence; Spain, with a more relaxed atmosphere and a number of historical sites to visit; and even Costa Rica, which surprisingly has one of the highest literacy rates in the world. Programs are available in almost every county and major city in the world, so take some time to research these areas thoroughly, and select a country that most closely matches your interests.

Researching High School Study Abroad Programs

When researching high school study abroad programs you must first consider your primary motivation for studying overseas. For example, are you looking for a rigorous academic program, language instruction, or do you merely want to visit some interesting landmarks with historical significance? Whatever your reason for wanting to study abroad, use that as your starting point, and it help to dramatically narrow your search results.

As long as you meet the requirements to study abroad, the choice of programs and locations is virtually limitless. And once there, you’re bound to have an exciting and educational experience that you will remember for the rest of your life.