tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89180065715107943542024-03-16T11:52:41.034-07:00International StudySpainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.comBlogger89125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-50596062009150665942012-07-25T23:06:00.000-07:002012-07-25T23:06:43.482-07:00Worldwide Degree Programs and Distance Education<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Wouldn’t it be great if you could
earn an art degree from a university in Paris, a fashion degree from Milan or
an architectural degree from a New York City college without ever having to
leave the comfort of your own home Well,
if you have a computer and a reliable internet connection that’s exactly what
you could do via a distance education program.
There are currently thousands of colleges, universities and private
institutes offering worldwide degree programs for students through distance
education, and while some require at least partial attendance, there are many
more that necessitate no physical attendance whatsoever. To help you become
better acquainted with this ever-growing and extremely popular mode of
education, below we will discuss worldwide degree programs and distance
learning in a bit more detail, including a description of how these programs
work and some information regarding the type of people who make for great
distance education candidates.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Worldwide Degree Programs and
Distance Education<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Distance education programs</span></b></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> have been around for over 50
years, but it wasn’t until the late 1990s that these programs began to gain a
measure of credibility. In the past, the
mere mention of an online education would conjure up images of non-accredited
universities and fake or virtually worthless degrees, but today that image has
changed dramatically. That’s because In
the last two decades, the prevalence of personal computers and increased global
access to the Internet, have resulted in the exponential growth of worldwide
degree programs through distance education—quality programs offered by renowned
institutions. Most universities today
have at least some form of distance education, including major universities
throughout the world that are consistently ranked among the world’s top
schools. College administrators and
faculty have discovered that by providing certain degree programs in an online
format they could afford students greater access and reach a portion of society
that would otherwise be excluded. Now
students can take university-level coursework and enter worldwide degree
programs wherever they wish, without being limited by distance, time or
handicap.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">In distance education, students
send and receive assignments over the Internet and can complete them at their
leisure at times when it’s most convenient for them. These worldwide degree programs are today
aided by several new technologies that make communication and staying in touch
much easier, including email, instant messaging, text messaging, video
conferencing and even virtual classrooms, where students can attend lectures in
real-time via their home computer. Some
of these worldwide degree programs require a minimal degree of physical attendance,
usually for things like exams or guest lectures, but many programs are designed
to completely eliminate the need for any physical attendance, including exams
that are given online.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Worldwide Degree Programs Are You a Good Candidate for Distance Education<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Distance education will probably
never entirely replace the traditional classroom experience, but it does make
sense for many people, including<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">• Full-time
employees who lack the time (and energy) to attend classes because of their job
responsibilities<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">• Stay-at-home
moms and dads<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">• People
in rural and remote regions where university education is not available<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">• Adults
and seniors interested in taking enrichment classes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">• People
limited by physical, mental or emotional disability<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">• And
more…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Naturally, to be a candidate for
worldwide degree programs in an online format you will need to be
self-disciplined and motivated, able to complete your weekly assignments by the
agreed upon deadline. You should also be
at least somewhat familiar with the required computer technology, understanding
the basics of programs such as email, video and text messaging, Microsoft
WordExcelPower Point and others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">If you meet these requirements
your educational landscape is virtually limitless. No longer are you limited to the higher
education programs in your hometown, but you’re free to pursue the education of
your choice at the school or university of your dreams.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-67099619715826853432012-07-25T23:03:00.000-07:002012-07-25T23:03:03.368-07:00Worldwide Degree Programs: A Closer Look at the Bologna Process<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 17px;"><b> </b></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;">Are you a university student
considering the possibility of completing a portion or all of your degree at a
foreign institution in Europe?</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;">If you
have, you probably already know there are an endless amount of worldwide degree
programs available, including those in the various universities within the
European Union.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;">But were you aware that
most of the universities in this region have recently switched to a new credit
and degree structure?</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;">It’s true.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;">Beginning in 2007, the institutions of higher
learning in most of the countries that make up the European Union began to
adopt a standardized credit and degree structure—a structure which was borne
out of the Bologna Process.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;">To help you
better understand this recent transformation, below we will discuss the Bologna
Process in a bit more detail and show you how these changes have made worldwide
degree programs throughout Europe more beneficial and accessible.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/study_abroad/subjects-en.htm"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Worldwide
Degree Programs</span></b></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">: About the Bologna Process<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">The Bologna Process was a course
of action aimed at educational reform in the higher education institutions
throughout Europe. According to their
official website “the overreaching aim of the Bologna Process is to create a
European Higher Education Area (EHEA) based on international cooperation and
academic exchange that is attractive to European students and staff as well as
to students and staff from other parts of the world.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">So how exactly do these worldwide
degree programs work? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Standardizing the credit and
degree system in European universities is the main focus of the Bologna
Process. Under this new structure there
are now three distinct cycles of education:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Cycle One<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Cycle one represents the first
level of education, usually spanning three years. For each year completed, students earn 60
credits, with 180 credits needed to finish the undergraduate program. No degree is awarded after the first cycle of
education, but students who successfully complete the program are eligible to
enroll in cycle two, after which they will earn a degree. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">In most countries there is also
an alternative program for students not interested in pursuing a second-cycle
education. These programs typically span four years, in which students are
required to earn 240 credits, ultimately leading to an undergraduate or
Bachelor degree.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Cycle Two<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">The second cycle, as outlined in
the Bologna Process, spans two years, in which students must earn a minimum of
120 credits (certain programs may take 3 years or 180 credits). Following successful completion of cycle two
students are awarded a Master of Arts or Master of Science Degree in their
particular field of study. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Cycle Three<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Students who have successfully
completed the Master’s program in cycle two are eligible to enroll in the third
cycle, representing doctoral or PhD studies.
These programs vary in length, and while there is no specific credit requirement
outlined for cycle three in the Bologna Process, most doctoral programs will
span three years, during which students will earn 180 credits. More advanced fields may take up to four to
five years to complete.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">The Benefits<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">The main goal of worldwide degree
programs such as this is to create unity in higher education, not just in the
universities in Europe, but in other parts of the world as well. Although the
transformation was initially resisted by many countries, the changes outlined
in the Bologna Process have now been implemented in almost every European
university with good results. Among the
many benefits, the new structure has been shown to help:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">• Facilitate
transfers throughout Europe and ease the mobility of students, graduates and
faculty<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">• Prepare
students for careers and life in a democratic society and support their
personal development<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">• Increase
access to high-quality education, based on democratic principles and academic
freedom<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Today there are over 47 countries
united under this new educational structure, all demonstrating why worldwide
degree programs are more student and staff friendly than those that are merely
national or regional.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-78904299576314753372012-06-27T20:39:00.000-07:002012-06-27T20:39:36.011-07:00Summer Student Exchange: A Summer Camp for Older Teens<DIV ALIGN=JUSTIFY>If you have ever attended summer camp as a child, odds are you remember the experience fondly. The new and challenging activities, warm campfires with songs and skits and the countless number of opportunities to meet and make new friends during your stay no doubt made summer camp an immensely enjoyable experience and a special place to be during the summer months. Sadly, similar opportunities become few and far between as you get a little older, and by the time you’re a junior or senior in high school they are practically non-existent—unless, of course, you apply to participate in a summer student exchange.<br><br>
What is Summer Student Exchange?<br><br>
Summer student exchange programs are an exciting way to spend your summer break and are becoming very popular among older teens as a way to visit another country without spending an arm and a leg. These four to eight week programs are sponsored throughout the world, including countries in Europe, North America, Asia, Africa and even Australia, affording students a unique opportunity to learn a new culture, gain valuable language skills and meet new friends from around the globe. A <a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/exchange_student/">summer student exchange</a> can be academically-based, in which students study a particular subject (Art in Paris or Marine Biology in Australia), or they can revolve around language programs or even summer employment. Typically, students will study during the morning hours with a qualified instructor who speaks their language. Classroom sessions usually include group discussions and guided practice, ultimately leading to proficiency in the language or subject being studied. In most cases, the credits students earn while participating in the program will count towards their diploma—a fact that gives many students an added incentive to participate.<br><br>
Once class (or work) lets out for the day, students are free to explore their host country, learning the customs, traditions and language of its people and dining on the local fare. Most student exchange programs include regular excursions to sites of interest within the country—landmarks, museums, galleries and sites of historical significance—places that are usually tied in some way to the subject material they are studying. These trips allow students to observe the daily pace of life in the country and the small nuances that make it so special and unique, ultimately giving them a greater appreciation and understanding of the culture and a wider more sensitive world perspective.<br><br>
As with the summer camp you experienced as a child, a summer student exchange is filled with new and challenging activities, albeit on a greater scale, and numerous occasions on which to meet new people and make friends. This typically begins with your accommodations, as most programs will pair you with a host family to live with for the duration of your stay. These families, who generously share their homes, meals and their time to make the summer student exchange experience so memorable, will serve as your tour guides and support system during your summer adventure, teaching and answering all your questions and helping to ward off any homesickness. You’ll be treated just like one of the family and be able to visit places such as restaurants, shops, theaters, etc. In many cases, your host family will include someone at or near your own age with whom you can explore all the sights and sounds of the country when you’re not in class.<br><br>
If you long for the days of summer camp and are interested in experiencing that feeling again, only on a much more mature scale, then a summer student exchange program is definitely for you. While your trip may not include the campfires, archery and ghost stories you experienced as a child, it will feature one eye-opening experience after another as you come to know and ultimately love your host country and its people.</DIV>
Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-28210020738478337222012-06-27T20:37:00.000-07:002012-06-27T20:37:36.927-07:00Research Your Education Options with a Directory of International Schools<DIV ALIGN=JUSTIFY>Do you need help locating an international school or study abroad program? Have you considered using an online directory of international schools—a one-stop hub that may save you hours in research time? The world has changed rapidly in the last few decades, and as we move increasingly closer to full globalization, many students and parents have begun to realize the value of international schools and study abroad programs. Both embrace multi-national and even multi-linguistic education, and fortunately, now there is an easy way to research the various options available in different regions of the world: a directory of international schools. To help you get started, below we will provide a brief definition of each type of program and explain the basics when it comes to using a directory of international schools.<br><br>
International Schools and Study Abroad Programs<br><br>
Although international schools and study abroad programs are actually quite different, in most cases they will be listed together in a directory of international schools. Here is a brief definition for each of these terms:<br><br>
International School<br><br>
An international school is an educational institution that teaches a different curriculum than the one offered in the local schools, a curriculum that is accepted internationally at most schools of higher education. The instruction in international schools, which offer both primary and secondary education, is usually in English or bilingual (English + another language), and both the student body and faculty are typically multi-national. For decades now, these schools have been popular among expatriates who wish to provide their children with an education that will be accepted globally, including in their country of citizenship. More recently, however, local student enrollment has also been on the rise, as more and more parents are realizing the value of an international education in an ever-growing global society.<br><br>
Study Abroad<br><br>
Study abroad programs offer students the unique opportunity to study and live in a foreign country for a time, usually a semester or full academic year. While in the host country, students study in a foreign high school or university, but the language of instruction, as well as the textbooks and printed materials are in their own language. Students usually study with other international students in a program developed by their home university, and the credits they earn while studying abroad are fully transferrable. Cultural excursions and outings are an integral part of a student’s stay, providing numerous opportunities to learn and come to appreciate the culture, language, customs and traditions, as well as to sample the local fare. Students typically live in residence halls or with a host family—a family who volunteers their home and their time to benefit the program and their guests.<br><br>
Using a Directory of International Schools<br><br>
The easiest and fastest way to find international schools and study abroad programs, whether in your area or somewhere else, is to use a <a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/schools/">directory of international schools</a>. These digitized online catalogues have collected pages and pages of information from educational organizations around the world and have conduced and simplified the data to make each program or school easy to find and research. There are many websites that now offer a directory of international schools, and most will allow you to narrow your search using certain criteria, including a specific country or language, the type of program or curriculum offered or the duration of the program. For instance, if you were searching for a semester-long study abroad program with openings in Japan, you could first search by country and narrow the results further by the program duration. Once you have conducted the search you will be provided with a list of possible matches, on which you can click to see a description of the school or program. Some of the information you can find with a directory of international schools includes:<br><br>
• Location of the school and nearby places to visit<br><br>
• Program description, including dates and important program features<br><br>
• Candidacy requirements for the program (GPA requirement, etc.)<br><br>
• Program duration—semester, academic year, summer program<br><br>
• Daily schedule, including classroom and recreational hours<br><br>
• Program cost<br><br>
• Financial assistance and scholarship opportunities (most study abroad programs offer scholarship opportunities)<br><br>
• Living arrangements—on-campus housing, off campus housing, host families, etc.<br><br>
• How to apply, including application deadlines<br><br>
As you can see, a directory of international schools is a great way to avoid some of the time and hassle of finding an international school or study abroad program. Because all of the information you need is in one place, including the contact information, all you will need to do is bookmark the schools and/or programs that may match your needs, making it simple to return to when you need more information.</DIV>
Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-30370768263590780802012-06-27T20:34:00.000-07:002012-06-27T20:34:42.945-07:00International Exchange: How it Works<DIV ALIGN=JUSTIFY>Have you recently been approached about participating in an international student exchange, a conversation that has get you now wondering what exactly they are, how they work and what you can normally expect. If so, the following information may prove quite useful. Below we have described some of the basics associated with international exchange programs, including what they are and how they work, not just from an educational perspective, but from a cultural standpoint as well.<br><br>
International Student Exchange Programs: What They Are and How They Work<br><br>
Many students (and people in general) often get the wrong impression when they hear the term “international exchange.” They understand it’s about studying abroad, but they also have the mistaken notion that these students are simply “thrown in” to a foreign classroom environment in which the course instruction is provided in a language that is unfamiliar to them. This is not the case. One of the greatest features of international exchange programs is that students will study in their own language, taking many of the same courses they would at their home high school or university. Even better, in most cases, they will receive full credit for the coursework they complete when studying abroad—credit that will be applied to their high school diploma or university degree. <a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/">International exchange</a> programs have a very low teacher to student ratio, with classes made up of a number of international students (often from a variety of countries) who speak the same language.<br><br>
Naturally, studying at a foreign high school or university does offer international student exchange students a unique opportunity to gain a fresh educational perspective; to learn new instructional and learning methods and acquire valuable language and alternative problem-solving skills. Whether they’re studying for a semester, full academic year or just during the winter or summer break, the opportunity to meet the local instructors and students, and to witness how the education process is conducted in another country is a truly enlightening and valuable experience.<br><br>
At this point you may be wondering why these programs are called international “exchange.” The answer is actually rather simple. International exchange programs are reciprocal. This means if you are, say, an American high school or university student who decides to study in China for a semester, a Chinese student will normally have the opportunity to study in the United States, sometimes taking the very place you are vacating at your home school. This allows both of you to reap the benefits and advantages associated with studying abroad.<br><br>
In addition to the classroom component associated with international exchange programs, you will also be treated to numerous cultural and sightseeing excursions. Many former international exchange participants fondly recall these day-trips as being some of the most enlightening and entertaining experiences they had while living and studying abroad. Together they afforded students a firsthand experience, allowing them to fully “take in” the country and all it has to offer. The chance to visit some of country’s most treasured sites and landmarks, savor the local fare and speak and interact with the country’s people give international exchange students a rare opportunity to completely experience what life is like abroad on a day-to-day basis. Moreover, many of the people students meet along the way—people they meet in the classroom, residence hall or through their host family—are people with whom many former participants stay close and in touch with years after their international exchange program has concluded.</DIV>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-38240512957347672092012-06-27T20:31:00.000-07:002012-06-27T20:31:53.137-07:00Off Campus Student Housing: Tips for Avoiding Roommate Conflicts<DIV ALIGN=JUSTIFY>Are you a university student who is thinking about living off campus during the upcoming school year? Have you decided yet on the type of off campus student housing arrangement you would prefer—one that would also match your budget? Living off campus while studying at a college or university offers many advantages, including the ability to come and go as you please. However, if you’re like most students, you probably lack the financial resources to live completely on your own, especially if you’re taking a full load of classes. But this doesn’t mean that living off campus is impossible either. One of the many potential off campus student housing options is to share an apartment or flat with one or more roommates. This allows you to share the costs associated with living in an apartment, including things like rent, utilities, cable and internet access. However, regardless of the savings, and despite how well you and your roommate relate to each other initially, there are bound to be some conflicts along the way that you may not anticipate. These are a natural part of sharing a residence; however, many of them can be mitigated or avoided by following a few simple tips.<br><br>
Off Campus Student Housing: Tips for Avoiding Roommate Conflicts<br><br>
So you finally chose an apartment, met two roommates (say, Jeff and Manuel) who were willing to share the costs and you moved in. Initially, things were great and the three of you were getting along famously. However, after about the third month you begin to notice a sour smell emanating from Jeff’s room that is rapidly taking over the apartment. You’ve pleaded with him on several occasions to wash his clothes and dishes, but still the odor lingers and the combination of soiled socks with the strong smell of rotting meat begin to make you rethink the whole roommate arrangement. On top of this, despite your constant reminders, Manuel is now five days late with his share of the rent, and the cable television, a bill he had promised to pay, has now been shut off.<br><br>
Naturally, this scenario is fictitious, but conflicts like these are very real and extremely common when two or more people share <a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/student-housing/">off campus student housing</a>. And while not all conflicts can be completely avoided, there are many ways to allay or avoid them. Below we have listed just a few tips that will help make your apartment-sharing experience a little less stressful.<br><br>
• Address conflicts early. Many roommates, when sharing off campus student housing, fail to address conflicts as they arise. Instead, they let them fester, which only builds more and more resentment between the two parties and what could have ultimately been a minor conflict turns into World War II. This is a common, yet huge mistake. Experts suggest roommates be upfront with each other and try to resolve conflicts early, before they become too big to manage.<br><br>
• Discuss financial arrangements before moving in. When entering into a roommate agreement the question of who will pay for what and when should be decided prior to making any residential commitment. Put this in writing so there is no confusion down the road.<br><br>
• Show courtesy. The oldest—and still the best—tip when sharing off campus student housing is to be courteous to and mindful of each other. Behavior such as hogging the television, computer or other items in the common areas of the apartment will only cause conflict, so always act in a manner like you would like to be treated and behave in a way that’s positive and considerate.<br><br>
Conflicts are a natural part of life and are particularly prevalent in roommate situations, but by keeping the lines of communication open and demonstrating courtesy at all costs many of these conflicts can be minimized or eliminated altogether.</DIV>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-90916951888698158442012-06-27T20:30:00.000-07:002012-06-27T20:30:20.152-07:00Packing and Preparing for your Study Abroad Adventure<DIV ALIGN=JUSTIFY>If you are planning to take advantage of a study abroad opportunity in the near future, you have undoubtedly been quite busy preparing for your trip. This preparation process can be quite involved, requiring a number of tasks on your end to ensure everything goes off without a hitch. From scheduling your classes to setting up your flight to reserving your accommodations, the process can be stressful and time consuming, including all the steps you’ll need to take to obtain the required travel documents and student visa. Once you have completed all these “big” tasks associated with your study abroad program, it can seem like quite a relief, but you’re not quite finished yet. As the day of your flight approaches, there are a number of necessary duties that remain, including packing your suitcase (s) and a few other minor preparations you may not have considered. To help you be as prepared as possible for the big day, below we have listed a few crucial packing tips, along with some other suggestions to ensure your trip gets off to a great start.<br><br>
Packing Tips for Your Study Abroad Experience<br><br>
Whether you are planning to study for a semester, full academic year or longer, the question of what to pack is one every student abroad participant wrestles with. Here are some tips to ensure you pack everything you’ll need for your trip—and nothing you don’t.<br><br>
• Consider the seasons. Consider the seasons in which your <a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/">study abroad</a> experience will take place and research the average weather conditions during those seasons. Then, pack accordingly.<br><br>
• Think layers. Try to pack clothes that layer well together and can be mixed and matched. Hint: solid colors are usually ideal for this purpose.
• Use travel-size toiletries. Most toiletry items can be purchased once you arrive in your host country, but you’ll want to bring just enough to allow you to get by until you have settled in. Keep in mind that many airlines have regulations about the types and quantity of items you can bring on the plane, so be sure to check with them before packing.<br><br>
• Remember certain must-bring items. There are a number of must-bring items for students who plan to study abroad. In many countries this will include a raincoat and an umbrella for the rainy seasons. A scarf is also essential when studying in colder climates and is an ideal accessory for offsetting solid-colored and layered clothing. Handy wipes and/or antibacterial creams are also a must and will do in a pinch when you cannot locate a sink.<br><br>
• Don’t overdo it. Many students who plan to study abroad have the tendency to over-pack, but this is something you’ll want to resist. Laundry facilities will be available where you are staying, and you will more than likely be buying some clothing items when you’re in the host country. You will also want to save room in your suitcase to bring back souvenirs you accumulate along the way.<br><br>
Other Preparation Tips for Study Abroad Participants<br><br>http://www.cosladajoven.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Dibujo.jpg
As a study abroad participant there are certain steps you should take to prepare for life in your host country—steps you can start before you arrive. In the days leading up to your flight, make sure you are well-rested, well-fed and fully hydrated, which you can accomplish by drinking plenty of water and by avoiding caffeine and alcohol. When you are on the plane, set your watch to the proper time in your host country, and try to get some sleep as you make your way to your destination. This small step will allow you to stay awake until a normal bedtime on your first night in the country, which in turn will help you to adjust to the new time zone more rapidly.</DIV>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-91890645394381889592012-06-27T20:24:00.000-07:002012-06-27T20:24:58.712-07:00Study Abroad Programs and Transportation<DIV ALIGN=JUSTIFY>Are you planning to participate in one of the many study abroad programs worldwide; to live for a time, take courses and enjoy all the attractions and culture of a foreign country? Do you have some concerns regarding how you will get around in your host county—to classes and to various sightseeing destinations? Transportation can often be a tricky obstacle to navigate for participants of study abroad programs, which is why it would greatly benefit you to research the various transportation options in the country in which you plan to study. To help you take the first step in this process, below we have listed and described some of the more common means of transportation in foreign countries.<br><br>
Study Abroad Programs and Transportation<br><br>
In your home country, or at the very least, in your home city, you have no doubt already mastered the various means of public transportation and how to use them to get to where you are going. However, when participating in <a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/schools/countries/">study abroad programs</a> you may find some slight variations in terms of transportation, with names and schedules that may initially be a bit confusing. In most foreign countries, public transportation is relied upon heavily for getting around—transportation that often includes trains, buses and taxis—but if you currently live in a country that is not as dependent on public transportation, say, the United States, for example, you will definitely need to become a quick study on how public transport works and the various means available.<br><br>
Below we have listed and described the three primary modes of public transportation you are likely to encounter in foreign countries:<br><br>
Trains<br><br>
There are a number of different types of train systems in foreign countries. From underground trains or subways to elevated trains and light rails to high speed trains that serve the entire country, the train systems you may encounter as a member of one of the many study abroad programs can be quite varied. Generally, there are two basic types of trains or train systems: high-speed trains that travel from point to point and slower trains that stop in many towns and regions along a specific route. In Europe, for example, there are:<br><br>
• Inter-country trains. The inter-country trains in Europe are used to get from country to country. This is a very common way to travel throughout Europe, especially for students of study abroad programs who are unfamiliar with the various countries along the route.<br><br>
• Intra-country trains. There are many countries in Europe (and in the world for that matter) that have their own train systems. These types of trains travel from city to city within a given country—a true bonus for those in study abroad programs, allowing them to visit cities other than the one in which their university and/or accommodations are located.<br><br>
Buses<br><br>
Public city buses are the easiest and by far the most affordable means of travel, taking passengers to destinations within a specific city. If you plan to live off-campus during your stay, you may want to look into buying a monthly or quarterly bus pass, as you will probably find it cheaper than paying each time for a single ride.<br><br>
Taxis<br><br>
The final mode of transportation in foreign countries is the taxi. Although certainly not the most affordable means for everyday travel, taxis offer the benefit of direct “Point A to Point B” transport within a city. If you find yourself in a hurry, not willing to stop at various points along the way, or if you need to travel somewhere to which bus service is unavailable, a taxi is definitely the way to go.</DIV>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-17147364106208338142012-05-24T05:38:00.001-07:002012-05-24T05:38:43.499-07:00World Wide Schools: What You Need to Know<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">From an educational standpoint, these are
exciting times, not only in your home country, wherever that may be, but
globally, in almost every corner of the earth.
One type of education that is lending to this excitement is being
provided by World Wide schools, also known as international schools. World Wide schools can now be found in most
countries around the world, and have literally tripled in number over the past
decade. So what is so special about
these international or World Wide schools?
Actually, there are far too many characteristics and benefits to list
them all here, but to give you at least some inclination as to why these
institutions are becoming so popular among students and parents alike, below we
will provide a brief definition of World Wide schools and summarize some of the
advantages of this type of education. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">What
Are World Wide Schools and What Are the Benefits? <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">World Wide schools are institutions that
provide a different curriculum than the one taught in the local and more
traditional schools. The curriculum is
either international, such as the International Baccalaureate, or the same curriculum
used in United States and UK schools.
Instruction is provided either solely in English or bilingually with
English, and the student body and faculty are multi-national.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">In the early years of <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/schools/">World Wide schools</a></b>
their function was specific and very limited:
to provide education to U.S., UK or other English-speaking students
living in a part of the world in which English was not the native language,
thus making it difficult, even impossible for them to study and learn
effectively in the local schools.
Whether the children are in the country because one or both of their
parents are in the military or pursuing another type of employment-based
purpose, World Wide schools give them full access to a relevant education, one
that is universally accepted and provided in a language they can understand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">While serving the children of expatriates remains
a primary purpose of World Wide schools, these institutions have now take on an
additional role—a function that has led to an explosion in the industry in
recent years, especially in underdeveloped and developing nations. Today there are millions of locally-born
children who now attend international schools rather than the traditional
schools in their area. Parents who
envision greater opportunities for their children—opportunities in more
developed countries abroad—are now opting to send them to World Wide schools as
a way to provide them with an advantage and a head start. Not only do students study via a curriculum
that is generally accepted throughout the world by colleges and universities,
they also have the unique opportunity to gain valuable early language
skills. Typically, instructors at these
schools are far more trained, and because they hail from countries around the
world, together they offer a global educational perspective.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Students who complete their education in
World Wide schools are awarded a diploma that is internationally recognized,
thus opening the door to worlds of opportunity and providing them with considerably
more options than their traditionally-educated peers. Expatriate students can return home (or
anywhere else) armed with an education that has more than adequately prepared
them for university studies, and local children can dramatically improve their
educational and professional outlook by studying abroad, particularly those
students in underdeveloped countries where higher education and professional
positions are severely limited.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-31729530854874690882012-05-24T05:32:00.001-07:002012-05-24T05:32:40.137-07:00Directory of International Schools Explained<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zqZ9g-ITNpY/T74qUfBcxpI/AAAAAAAAAJg/AxcmNJIl7yk/s1600/2011_05_Spotlight_Unit-E_Core_Team.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zqZ9g-ITNpY/T74qUfBcxpI/AAAAAAAAAJg/AxcmNJIl7yk/s320/2011_05_Spotlight_Unit-E_Core_Team.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">If you’ve been searching for a school, either
for yourself or for your child, you may have run across the term “directory of
international schools.” It’s a term that
is becoming more and popular these days, as an increasing number of these types
of schools are being founded, but before we take a closer look at these
directories and explain their purpose, it is first necessary that we provide a
definition for international schools. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">What
Are International Schools?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Simply speaking, an international school is a
type of institution that offers a different curriculum than that of the host country—the
country in which the international school is located. Usually the instruction is provided wholly in
English or bilingually with English and another language (Spanish, French,
etc.). Many international schools use the curriculum of the larger
English-speaking countries, such as the United States and Great Britain, while
others use an international curriculum, such as the International Baccalaureate. To qualify as an international school both
the student body and faculty must be multi-national and accredited by an
international school accrediting body.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The original purpose of an international
school was to provide a relevant education to English-speaking children who,
because of their parent’s employment position in another country, were living
outside of their country of citizenship, be it the United States or the
UK. This would help prepare them for
higher education opportunities back home, whereas the local curriculum may
not. In recent years, however, more and
more local students have started to enroll in international schools as a way to
prepare for educational and employment opportunities abroad. In these schools, students have the
opportunity to learn the English language and study from a curriculum that is
generally accepted everywhere. This
trend has been especially prevalent in many of the less-developed countries
around the world, particularly in India, where an estimated 20 percent of all
school-age children are enrolled in international schools, usually with the
goal of transferring to universities in Europe and North America.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Directory
of International Schools<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">A directory of international schools is a type
of catalogue that is loaded with helpful school information, allowing students
and parents to make informed decisions when selecting an institution for their
education. Most of these directories are
now digitized and can be browsed online from the comfort of your home. With a comprehensive <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/schools/">directory of
international schools</a></b> you can search by school type (all-English
schools, American schools, etc) or region and you can even filter the search
results by the various options offered at each school. Two of the most important pieces of
information you can discover with the help of a directory of international
schools are:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The type of curriculum used</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">. As you browse through the directory of
international schools you will no doubt notice there are three main types
of curriculums to choose from:
international curriculum, a standardized university preparatory
program of study that is generally accepted at universities worldwide;
United States curriculum, the same program taught at the primary and
secondary schools in the U.S., including preparation for the SAT college
entrance examination; and the GCSE’s and “A” level curriculums that help
prepare students for university enrollment in the United Kingdom. If you already know the university you
plan to attend, it’s a good idea to check with them about the type of
curriculum(s) they accept before making a final decisions regarding
international school enrollment.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">School particulars</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">. A directory of international schools
provides a wealth of information on every school they list—a snapshot of
the school and all it has to offer.
Some of this information includes:
the start and end dates of the school year, the duration of the
school day (the time it begins and ends), typical class sizes, school
lunches, number of classrooms, eligibility requirements, curriculum and
school amenities, such as laboratories, and IT facilities.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Naturally, this is only a taste of the
tremendous amount of information you’ll reap when using a directory of
international schools, but as you can see, these directories can be very useful
and will save you the time and effort of researching each school separately.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-77352656315467568532012-05-24T05:28:00.000-07:002012-05-24T05:29:15.496-07:00Foreign Student Exchange: The Opportunity of a Lifetime<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Are you a high school student who has
recently been approached by school staff and given the unique opportunity to
study abroad as a participant of a foreign student exchange? Would it be helpful if you had a bit more
information regarding these types of programs and what’s potentially in store
for you? If so, the following article
may prove quite useful. Here we will spend
some time discussing the basics of a foreign student exchange, including such
topics as attending a foreign school, living with a host family and some of the
benefits you’ll reap both personally and educationally as a participant.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Foreign
Student Exchange: The Opportunity of a
Lifetime<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">If you’re like most high school students, the
chance to study and live in a foreign country for a year or even a semester is
not an opportunity that comes your way very often—if ever. However, as a participant in a foreign
student exchange that’s exactly what you’ll be able to do, and at a much
reduced cost when compared to traveling independently. While many people will have the chance to
travel abroad later in life, after they’re settled, few individuals have the
unique opportunity to do so when they are still very young, vibrant and
adventurous. Just imagine all the fun
you’ll have on this exciting international excursion: learning a different culture, acquiring
valuable language skills and meeting hundreds of new faces, some of whom will
become treasured friends with whom you will share a bond for a lifetime. Only in your high school years will you
possess the perfect combination of maturity and adaptability, the spirit and flexibility
to truly immerse yourself in a fresh new way of life and absorb all it has to
offer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">In a <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/exchange_student/">foreign student exchange</a></b>
you will study at a secondary school that may admittedly be very different than
your own, but these differences will only augment your overall learning
experience, giving you a fresh new perspective on the various ways people
learn—a perspective that will enhance your problem-solving and analytical
skills. Of course, the instruction
you’ll receive will be in your own language and the courses will count for
credit at your home school, but you will also be fully immersed into a novel
environment where people, in most cases, speak a different language than your
own, which, experts say, is the fastest route to new language acquisition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">As you might expect, the classroom or school
portion of a foreign student exchange is enough to make the trip well worth any
cost, but there are also many other program components that are equally
valuable. For example, most foreign
student exchange programs allow time for several cultural excursions during the
course of your stay—field trips in which you’ll travel with other international
and local students to visit some of the most significant sites in your host
country, providing you the opportunity to taste the local food and mingle with
the locals. From the Eiffel Tower in
Paris to the Coliseum in Rome to the Great Wall of China, wherever you decide
to go as a member of a foreign student exchange you can bet there will be
sufficient time to visit some of the country’s most treasured sites.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Finally, there is your host family. It has been said there is no better classroom
than a family home, a place where cultural learning and understanding takes
center stage. As a member of a foreign
student exchange you will live with a family who generously donates their time
and their home to make your experience a special and unforgettable one. As most former participants of a foreign
student exchange will tell you, these comfortable accommodations serve as a
type of second family, a place at which you’ll learn the most about the country
and forge the greatest number of friendships.
From weekend trips, in which you can explore your new surroundings, to
nightly meals and informative discussions, your host family are the people you can
lean on for support as they strive to make your international journey as fun,
enlightening and fulfilling as possible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-71034725659227795332012-05-24T05:19:00.003-07:002012-05-24T05:19:36.058-07:00International Exchange: How to Apply and Improve Your Eligibility<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Are you considering taking part in an
international exchange program—a program that allows you to live and study
abroad in a foreign country? Do you know
how to apply for such programs and how to increase your chances of being
accepted? Participating in an
international exchange program can be the opportunity of a lifetime, but as you
well know, the chance to do so is not a right, but rather a privilege. Most students in good standing at their high
school or university will be eligible for these programs, but space is often
limited, which means not everyone can participate. There are, however, some things you can do to
bolster your application. To illustrate
this, below we will briefly discuss how to apply for an international exchange
program, along with some other tips to help improve your chances of being
accepted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">About
International Exchange Programs<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Prior to World War II, when global tensions
ran high, there were only a handful of international exchange programs in
operation, and even those were quite limited in what they offered, especially
in terms of the number of countries that participated in such programs. Since the end of the war, however, the number
of companies, organizations and educational institutions providing exciting
international exchange adventures has been rising every year. Together they have offered millions of high
school and university students the opportunity to study and live abroad for a
time in almost any major country in the world—the chance to learn and absorb a
new culture, including its language, customs and traditions. These are exciting times for international
exchange programs, as there have never been more choices in terms of available destinations
and the variety of academic and linguistic programs being offered. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">International
Exchange: How to Apply and Improve Your
Eligibility<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">In most cases, the application process for
international exchange programs is rather simple. For high school students, applications are
usually handled and distributed by guidance counselors, while at colleges and
universities there is normally a separate department that deals with <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/">international
exchange</a></b> programs and provides assistance for students studying
abroad. Eligibility requirements vary
depending on the institution and the organization operating the program, but
generally speaking, you must be a reasonably good student, often with at least
a 3.0 grade point average. After
submitting your application, a committee will review it, and if deemed eligible
you will be scheduled for an interview, typically before a panel of educators
and representatives from the company offering the program. If selected to participate, you will be
notified in writing and provided instructions on how to prepare for your trip,
including the process for arranging your flight, accommodations and obtaining
your travel documents.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Sounds easy, right? Actually it is, but as we mentioned, not everyone
can participate, and because of that, the process can often be very
competitive. Here are just few ways to
improve your chances of being selected:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Hit the books.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> The grades you earn in your classes are only
one of the criteria for international exchange programs, but higher marks will
often cathch the eye of the selection committee. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Get involved at
school. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Much like on a
college application, certain weight is given to how involved you are at your school.
When grades are equal, students who participate in a number of clubs, sports
and other extra-curricular activities will generally have an edge over their
non-involved competition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Participate in your
community. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> Participating in and helping your community
says a lot about your character and trustworthiness. In fact, there are many international
exchange programs offered by community service groups, including Rotary
International, one of the largest such groups in the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The final tip for improving your eligibility
is to be flexible in terms of your destination.
International exchange programs are currently offered in almost every
country in the world, and while you may not be able to go to, say, France, due
to limited space, there may be over 150 other countries that would be happy to
have you as a guest.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-50720410972290261182012-05-24T05:16:00.000-07:002012-05-24T05:16:07.177-07:00Study Abroad Programs: Adjusting to a New Culture When Studying Abroad<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">If you are planning to study abroad in the
near future, either for a semester or full academic year, you are probably
experiencing a variety of emotions, ranging from excitement and anticipation to
trepidation and even a bit of fear.
These are all perfectly normal feelings, and as anyone who has ever
studied abroad will tell you, adjusting to a new way of life in another country
will certainly have its ups and downs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">According to experts in the field of cultural
identity and adjustment, transitioning into a new culture can be one of the
most difficult parts of study abroad programs.
The reasons for this are many, but perhaps the largest obstacle people
face is their own cultural perspective.
Think of it like this: For your
entire life you have been surrounded by elements of a single country’s culture,
your own, including all the traditions, customs, language and cuisine. But now, as an upcoming participant in one of
the many study abroad programs, you are about to be “thrown in” to another way
of life, with different people, places, attitudes and perspectives. This is bound to cause some internal conflicts. However, by learning to recognize the various
stages associated with cultural adjustment, you will be better equipped to
overcome these conflicts as they arise. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">There are essentially four stages of cultural
adjustment that many students will pass through when participating in <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/schools/countries/">study abroad programs</a></b>,
albeit not necessarily in the same order presented below: bummer<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">“Flying High” or
Fascination Stage.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> Most participants in study abroad programs
arrive in their host country with a feeling of excitement, anticipation and
adventure. They are spellbound by the
newness of the experience and they can’t wait to see what’s around every
corner. Food tastes delicious, people
seem friendly and the novelty of the experience makes them wonder why they
didn’t try this sooner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Let-Down or
Discouragement Stage</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">. Once the novelty wears off, many students in
study abroad programs are faced with the reality of trying to fit into a
culture that’s very different from their own.
They may face obstacles in their studies; have awkward interactions with
the locals; and/or struggle with the new language, complete with all of its
colloquialisms. They judge everything
they see and every person they meet in terms of how very “different” they are,
and naturally, a feeling of discouragement and homesickness usually creeps
in. This stage can be a difficult one to
maneuver, but if you find yourself feeling let-down or “bummed out,” it’s
important that you remain positive and keep an open mind, because the very best
part of your study abroad program is yet to come.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The “Ah-Hah” or Transitional
Stage.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> As time goes on during the course of study
abroad programs, most students acquire a stronger command of the language and a
deeper appreciation of the culture.
Instead of comparing things to their homeland, they essentially wake up
to the beauty of the experience and begin to examine the cultural differences
for what they are, as well as the attitudes and behaviors of the people. Instead of being discouraged they begin to
relish the experience as one that is broadening their cultural horizons.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The Assimilation or “I
Finally Fit In” Stage</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">. With a renewed appreciation for the
opportunities and adventures afforded them by study abroad programs, most participants
will gradually begin to feel as if they are assimilating or blending in with
the people and culture, rather than feeling like a square peg in a round
hole. New language skills are mastered,
helping them to communicate, and with a deeper understanding of the culture,
making friends, which initially seemed improbable if not impossible, becomes a
happy reality at every turn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Although many participants in study abroad
programs will face difficulties as they try to adjust to a new culture and a
fresh way of life, in the end most former participants feel as if they are much
better off for the experience. Some even
become so immersed in the culture of their host country that they encounter
many of the same adjustment stages in their re-entry phase, as they transition
back to the culture and the ways of their homeland.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-39505035869278431282012-05-24T05:11:00.002-07:002012-05-24T05:11:46.588-07:00Safety Tips for Those Planning to Study Abroad<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Are you planning to study abroad in the
upcoming future; to live in a foreign country and attend classes for a semester
or full academic year? Are you a bit
concerned about how life will be and how to stay safe when studying in a
foreign city, a city to which you are not accustomed? Concerns regarding safety among those
planning to study abroad are perfectly normal, but once you become a bit more
familiar with your new surroundings, you will undoubtedly become more
comfortable, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience, without the anxiety
that often accompanies adjusting to a new culture, language and way of
life. Until then, there are a number of
steps you can take to help ensure your safety when studying and living
abroad—steps we will outline in some detail below.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Safety
Tips for Those Planning to Study Abroad<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">In most cases, ensuring your safety when
studying abroad is really no different than the steps you would take at
home. The only difference is you will
not understand the basic rules and cultural customs of the city or country in
which you are studying—a problem that is usually compounded by an unfamiliarity
of the language. The most basic rule is
to use common sense and to always be aware of your surroundings. As a <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/">study abroad</a></b> participant you must
always remember you are not immune to the dangers of your host city, but if you
remain vigilant at all times you can generally reduce the likelihood of becoming
a target. Good judgment is the key to
enjoying life as a study abroad participant, complete with all the fun and
excitement your host city has to offer.
This means following a few very basic safety rules, including:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Use the Buddy System</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">. One of the best parts of any study abroad
program is the experience of exploring your host city, its attractions and
nightlife. However, when doing so it is
extremely important that you partner up with at least one, or ideally several
friends, including, whenever possible, another student or adult who lives in or
is familiar with the city. By never
venturing out alone you can significantly reduce the potential of being
harassed, annoyed or becoming a target of criminal activity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Ask Questions about
the City</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">. One of the unfortunate realities that holds
true for cities around the world is that there are always certain areas or
neighborhoods within that city known for their crime. Therefore, before exploring your new
surroundings with your new-found friends, check with some of the local students
and ask questions regarding the areas you should avoid and the areas that are
more tourist-friendly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Avoid Carrying Cash.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> Avoiding carrying large amounts of cash may
sound like a no-brainer, but there are far too many study abroad participants
who have made this mistake and paid the consequences. Instead of cash use a more protected source
of payment for purchases, such as traveler’s checks or a credit card.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Avoid Alcohol. </span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> As a study abroad participant, particularly in
cities renowned for their nightlife, there may be occasions in which indulging
in alcohol sounds tempting. However, you
must keep in mind that alcohol lowers your inhibitions, affects your good
judgment and makes it significantly more difficult to remain aware of your
surroundings. One or two drinks are okay
when celebrating, but for safety’s sake avoid becoming too intoxicated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">By following these simple steps as a member
of a study abroad program you’ll be able to enjoy all that your host city has
to offer and stay safe in the process.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-4685952998700169832012-04-27T00:30:00.003-07:002012-04-27T00:30:22.658-07:00Student Exchange Programs: The Basics<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Are
you one of the thousands of students considering studying abroad in the upcoming
school year via some type of student exchange program? Do you still have several questions with
regard to these programs—questions as to how student exchange programs work and
what you can expect? Student exchange
programs offer you a unique opportunity to study and live in a foreign country
for a time; an adventure that will allow you to gain a fresh new perspective,
both academically and culturally.
Thousands of students take part in student exchange programs each year,
and just like you, many of them will have questions regarding some of the
specifics involved once acceptance to the program has been granted and
finalized. To help answer some of these
questions, below we have outlined some of the basics associated with student
exchange programs, including what they are, how they work and a brief
description of some of the potential accommodations while living in the host
country.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Student Exchange
Programs: What They Are and How They
Work<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Student
exchange programs, which are typically academically based, are programs in
which high school and university students are given the opportunity to travel
to a foreign country to study and live for a semester or full academic
year. The courses students study while
living abroad are almost always part of their home school’s curriculum, and the
instruction is provided by a teacher who speaks the student’s native
language. In most cases, students will
receive credit for the coursework they complete while participating in student
exchange programs—credit that will be applied towards either their high school
diploma or university degree. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The
word “exchange” in </span><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/exchange_student/">student exchange programs</a></span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> is used because,
typically, these types of programs are reciprocal. In other words, let’s say an American student
wanted to travel to Spain to study and live for a semester. By applying for a student exchange program,
not only can this dream be realized, but in “exchange,” a Spanish student at
roughly the same academic level will be granted a similar opportunity to study
and live in America for an equal amount of time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Student
exchange programs are a fantastic vehicle for learning how education systems
work in other countries, but the learning experience to which you’ll be treated
will not be limited to the classroom.
Most student exchange programs offer day trips and cultural excursions,
giving you an once-in-a-lifetime chance to visit the country’s significant
landmarks, dine on the local cuisine and experience firsthand the language of
its people. New friendships are
inevitable when studying abroad, friends you will no doubt keep in touch with
and cherish for many years to come.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Student Exchange
Programs: Accommodations<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">There
are a number of residential options for students studying abroad. For high school students, accommodations are
typically provided by a host family—a family that volunteers their home and
time to enhance the quality of the study-abroad experience. Meals are also provided free of charge with
this option, but perhaps the best part about staying with a host family is all
the great information they provide for students—information regarding the
customs, traditions and culture of the host country. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">University
students can also opt to reside with a host family, but they generally have
many other residential options available to them as well. On-campus housing, in residence halls or
dormitories, allows students to enjoy the complete university experience. The close proximity to classrooms and other
university services, as well as the countless number of opportunities to forge
new friendships, makes on-campus housing a very attractive option.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The
final housing option for individuals in student exchange programs is to rent a
flat or an apartment, either alone or with one or more friends. This can be rather costly, but for motivated
students seeking a measure of independence and freedom, the extra cost may be
well worth it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-81177535114005314162012-04-27T00:25:00.001-07:002012-04-27T00:25:04.247-07:00Student Exchange Programs: What to Anticipate as a Student Exchange Participant<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Are you a high school student who has
recently decided to participate in a student exchange program? Are you a bit nervous about the upcoming
experience, wondering what’s in store for you and what you can expect when
studying in another country? Being a
participant in one of the thousands of available student exchange programs can
be the opportunity of a lifetime.
However, because the experience is something completely new and
different, at least in terms of to what you are accustomed, it only stands to
reason that you would have some concerns and maybe even some anxiety about the
experience—feelings that are absolutely normal when planning to study and live in
a foreign country. To help quell some of
your nervous feelings, in this article we will point out several things you can
anticipate as a participant in student exchange programs, with a brief
description of each of these characteristics.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">What to
Anticipate in Student Exchange Programs<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">There are several reasons why high schools
students—students just like you—decide to pursue the opportunity to study
abroad as members of <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/exchange_student/">student exchange programs</a></b>. Some join to see how the education in foreign
countries differs from that of their own, while others seek the opportunity to
visit and learn about a new country, including its culture, customs, traditions
and language. Some simply want to break
up their currently monotonous routine, seeking excitement and adventure through
an experience that’s totally new.
Whatever the reason was that prompted you to consider participation in
student exchange programs; you can bet the experience will contain some unfamiliar
traits and characteristics you may not have previously considered. Some of these include:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">A completely
different routine.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> As you may have already read in the
study-abroad pamphlet provided by your school, participants in student exchange
programs will generally stay with a host family for the duration of their visit
in a new country; and with a new living environment there are bound to be some
shake-ups to your normal routine. This
new routine, while certainly foreign to you, is a wonderful opportunity to learn
about family life and values in another country. Keep in mind that the members of these
families are generally very knowledgeable about the country in which you are
staying, and will be a great source of information and comfort, helping you to
gradually become more familiar with the customs and culture of the host
country.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">A new school
environment.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> As an upperclassman in your current school,
you no doubt know the ways of that school like the back of your hand. You know the teachers, the administrators,
the bell schedule and where to find everything you need on a day-to-day
basis. This will not be the case when
participating in one of the many student exchange programs in other
countries—at least not initially. As a
participant of a <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/schools/countries/">study abroad program</a></b>,
you will typically study many of the same subjects you did at home, and the
instruction will be in a language familiar to you. This, however, is where the similarities will
end. Studying abroad in a foreign school
is a wonderful opportunity to see how the education process works in another
country. This may feel uncomfortable for
a bit, only because it is something completely new, but once you learn how
things work you will undoubtedly “get into the groove of things” in no time
whatsoever.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">A tinge of
homesickness</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">. For many students, studying in student
exchange programs represents the only time they have been away from home for
any substantial length of time, and the truth is even the most adventurous of
students may begin to miss various aspects of their life back home—their
parents, friends and comfortable environment.
This is only natural, but as time goes on, and as you begin to meet and
make new friends, your pangs for life back home are sure to subside somewhat,
as you’ll be far too busy with life in a new country.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Studying through student exchange programs is
a brand new experience, one filled with excitement, adventure and several
traits and characteristics that are completely new and different. These differences to your normal environment
and routine may initially be difficult to manage, but as time goes on, the
opportunities to visit a new country, learn its culture and customs and make
new friends you will cherish for a lifetime, are sure to trump any discomfort
and anxiety associated with the newness of the experience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-30309719242317921492012-04-27T00:16:00.003-07:002012-04-27T00:16:35.752-07:00Off Campus Student Housing: Some Frequently Asked Questions<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UrDyKMTJ5b0/T5pHr-CJY9I/AAAAAAAAAIk/mxL05FK1lJM/s320/lbj-center.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Are you a student planning to study
internationally in the near future, at a college or university in a foreign
country? Have you made a decision yet
about where you will live during the course of your studies? The opportunity to study abroad can be the
experience of a lifetime, but as you are probably well aware, taking advantage
of this type of opportunity involves a lot of planning, including making all
the necessary arrangements with regard to accommodations. This can be difficult to do, especially while
living outside the country and you probably have plenty of questions you need
answered before you make any final decisions.
If this is the case, the following information may prove very useful. Here we have compiled a list of some of the
most frequently asked questions regarding off-campus housing, with a short and (hopefully)
helpful answer for each question.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Off
Campus Student Housing: Answers to Some
Frequently Asked Questions<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">As an international student there are
essentially two general options in terms of where you can live during the
course of your studies. The first is
stay on campus, typically in a residence hall or dormitory, but space for on
campus housing is usually very limited, and there may be a waiting list of up
to one or two years before on campus housing becomes a realistic option for
you. That leaves off campus housing—the
subject we will cover below with some frequently asked questions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">I’m
interested in locating off campus student housing. What should I do first?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The first—and best—step to take when trying
to arrange off campus housing is to contact the university you plan to
attend. Most universities have a student
housing office (some even have an office dedicated to international student
housing), with employees who are trained in finding housing solutions for
international students studying abroad.
By doing this you’ll be able to get contact numbers for the various
housing options near the campus, and most universities now have a student
housing database that you can search from your own computer. They may even be able to supply you with all
the forms you need (applications, financial assistance forms, etc.), and a list
of tenant’s rights and responsibilities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">What
are the various types of off campus student housing available?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Depending on the country in which you plan to
study, there are many possible <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/student-housing/">off campus student housing</a></b>
options. If you would like to live
alone, becoming the primary leaser or renter, there are apartments,
condominiums, houses, duplexes and townhomes.
If cost is an issue, which it is for many students, you could look for a
room in a private home. You could also check
the student housing database for “roommate wanted,” advertisements, thus
allowing you to split the various housing costs, including rent, utilities and
other services.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">What if
I need furniture?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Many off campus student housing options come
pre-furnished, but if this is not the case with the place you have selected,
try checking around at garage sales, discount stores and online wholesalers to
find what you need.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">How
will I get to school?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">If the house, apartment or condo you select
is not near enough to the university to allow you to walk to your classes, check
with the student housing or student services office for information on public
transportation within the city. Most
university-towns have buses or even shuttles that drop off at various points
along the school grounds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Off campus student housing, whether you
decide to live alone or with others, can greatly enhance the study abroad
experience. This option allows for much
more freedom and independence—an opportunity to set your own schedule without
being bound by some of the rules you’re likely to encounter with most on-campus
student housing situations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-40159594890918884572012-04-27T00:13:00.004-07:002012-04-27T00:13:51.866-07:00Accommodations for International Students: The Pros and Cons of the Various Options for Student Residence<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DH_uQ2C_spw/T5pHB7uR5QI/AAAAAAAAAIc/9cO5oVZ6-wQ/s320/Yarra_House_heritage_building.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Are you one of thousands of high school
and/or university students planning to study abroad during the upcoming school
year? Have you decided yet where you
will stay during the course of your study abroad program? Studying abroad is a dream shared by a countless
number of young adults, and the types of available accommodations for
international students will usually depend on a number of factors, including
the type of program in which you enroll, the country and/or university at which
you plan to study, available transportation and, of course, price. It can be a difficult decision to make, and
in most cases it is a decision that needs to be made quickly, so as to
guarantee you reserve a residence that’s right for you. To help you get
started, below we have compiled a short list of the potential accommodations
for international students, along with some of the advantages and disadvantages
of each type of residence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Accommodations
for International Students: The Pros and
Cons of Residence Halls and Student Apartments <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Once you have decided on a country you would
like to visit and located an appropriate study abroad program, the next thing
you will need to decide is where you will stay while participating in the
program. This can be a painstaking
process, but once you understand the pros and cons of each of your options, you
will invariably find it much easier to make an informed decision that best suits
your interests and personality. Two of
the potential <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/student-housing/">accommodations for
international students</a></b>, along with some of the advantages and
disadvantages of each, are listed below:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Accommodations
for international Students: Residence
Hall <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">A residence hall, also called a dormitory or
dorm in some countries, is an on-campus student housing option that is very
popular among individuals studying abroad.
Typically, a residence hall is located on or close to school grounds and
features a few large common rooms and dozens of smaller rooms known as living
quarters. Students will usually share a small
room with one or more students—rooms that contain just enough space for beds, a
desk and various closets or cabinets where both you and your roommate can store
your clothes and a few belongings. The
larger common rooms in a residence hall can include a large gathering room with
sofas, chairs and games, a place where you and other students can socialize,
recreate or simply watch television together; a kitchen area, a laundry room;
and a quiet area, where you can study, either alone or with others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The advantages of living in a residence hall
are many, beginning with the proximity to classrooms and other school
amenities. You will be able to walk to
your classes, participate in college functions, watch games, and eat meals in
the school cafeteria. Living in a
residence hall will allow you to take in the whole college experience and make
lasting friendships you will never forget.
However, there are a couple of disadvantages you may not have
considered. Your privacy may be limited
in this type of living arrangement, and because there are several rules you
must follow, a residence hall may not provide the freedom and independence you
seek. Additionally, because this type of
arrangement is so very popular, spots may be limited, so you will need to act
quickly to ensure the university has room to accommodate you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Accommodations
for International Students: Renting an Apartment
or Flat<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Living in an off-campus apartment or flat,
either alone or with one or more roommates, is also one of the more popular accommodations
for international students—one with several advantages. First of all, there are no rules to follow
when living in an apartment, so if the feeling of independence and the freedom to
create your own schedule (outside of your studies) appeals to you, this may be
the perfect residential option. However,
before you sign on the dotted line, consider some of the potential drawbacks to
this type of arrangement:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Price.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> Residing in an apartment or flat can quickly
get expensive, especially when you consider meals and other expenses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Transportation.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> How will you get to your classes? Is there reliable public transportation? These questions must be considered before
deciding to rent a flat or apartment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Friends.</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;"> Unlike living in a residence hall, where you
will be surrounded by like-minded students, living alone in a flat—in a country
in which you are not familiar or totally comfortable—may get lonely.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">While there are other possible accommodations for <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/student-housing/">international
students</a></b>, including staying with a host family, the advantages and
drawbacks of the options listed above should give you a fairly clear picture of
what you can expect. </span></div>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-9664044629065375202012-04-27T00:10:00.002-07:002012-04-27T00:10:20.605-07:00Accommodations for International Students: On Campus vs. Off Campus Student Housing<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iAR2elKMetI/T5pGLdfevxI/AAAAAAAAAIU/3OGLkGR7ssA/s320/Dayton.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Are you a university student who is
considering an opportunity to study abroad for a semester or full academic
year? Do you still have questions
regarding the study abroad process, including questions about where you’ll stay
when living and studying in a foreign country?
The decision to study abroad is an exciting one, but it also involves a
lot of preparation. First you need to
decide on a university or exchange program in a country you’d like to visit,
and you will also need to acquire all of the necessary travel documents required
by the host country. During this process
you will need to ask a great deal of questions, but perhaps the most important
of these is “what types of accommodations are available for international
students?” This is a question that is asked
by thousands of international students each year—a question that needs to be
considered carefully before making any final arrangements. To help you get a clearer understanding of
the residence situation in most study abroad programs, below we will provide the
two general types of accommodations for international students, with a brief
description of each type of housing arrangement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Accommodations
for International Students<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The opportunity to study abroad can be an
once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Not only
will you gain a fresh new educational perspective through your studies at a
foreign high school or university, but you’ll also have the unique chance to learn
a new culture, and all the customs, traditions and cuisine that make that
culture so special. You may even learn a
new language in the process, but perhaps the best part of the excursion are the
friends you will make along the way—friends that you may have never met if it
weren’t for the study abroad program.
This includes friends you will meet in the course of your studies—peers
and professors—and those you will meet as the result of the type of living
arrangement you choose while staying in the country.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Depending on the type of study abroad program
you choose, there are numerous potential accommodations for international
students. These can be broken down into
two general categories: on-campus <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/student-housing/">accommodations for
international students</a></b> and off-campus accommodations for international
students.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">On-Campus
Accommodations for International Students<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Staying on campus during the course of your
international study abroad experience has many advantages. First of all, staying on campus will all but
eliminate the need for regular transportation.
Everything you could possibly need will be within walking distance,
saving you from the hassle of trying to get around in your new and unfamiliar
surroundings. You will also be very close
to your classrooms (a bonus if you plan to take early morning or late night
classes), as well as all the school amenities, including food services,
libraries, the college book store and recreational and entertainment facilities. Staying on-campus will allow you to enjoy the
whole college experience—the pep rallies, sports competitions, etc.—and you
will have an opportunity to live and make friends with local and other
international students alike, forging friendships you’ll remember and cherish for
a lifetime.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Off-Campus
Accommodations for International Students<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Staying off-campus also has plenty of
advantages, especially if you are the type that enjoys his or her freedom, and
you’d rather not be saddled with the rules and regulations that may often accompany
an on-campus housing arrangement. Although
renting an apartment or townhouse may be more expensive than staying on-campus,
it can be a great way to learn independent living skills, and will allow you to
come and go as you please. When not in
classroom, you’ll be able to explore the city on your own terms and see the
sights and attractions that are most important to you. You may even be able to find a roommate with
whom to share a flat, saving you both a lot of money in the long run.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">As you can see, the decision between
on-campus and off-campus accommodations for international students is a
personal one, a decision that will ultimately depend on the facets of the <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/">study
abroad</a></b> experience that are most important to you. Keep in mind though, if you are planning to
study abroad in the next 12 months it would be wise to decide on your
accommodations for international students soon, especially if you are
considering an on-campus housing arrangement, as these spots tend to fill up
very quickly. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-68860429614658197982012-04-27T00:03:00.000-07:002012-04-27T00:06:27.454-07:00Learn a New Language through a Summer Student Exchange Program<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L6PRQaSnHzQ/T5pE63ULupI/AAAAAAAAAIM/4zaFYfil888/s320/ClarkCollegeZermat.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Are you a high school student, at least 16
years old and looking for a great way to spend your summer vacation this
year? Are you the type of person who
enjoys a challenge, relishes the idea of experiencing new things and are frankly
quite tired of doing the same types of things every summer—experiences that
leave you bored, unchallenged and no better off for the experience? If so, a summer student exchange program may
be right up your alley. To help you get
started, below we will provide a brief definition of a summer student
exchange—what it entails and what you can expect—and give you some basic
information on things like housing and how to apply.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">What Is
a Summer Student Exchange?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Does the notion of spending a summer in a
foreign country appeal to you? Would you
be willing to spend some of your time studying in exchange for the opportunity
to explore the sights, sounds and tastes of your host country? If so, you could be one of the thousands of
students this year to take advantage of a summer student exchange program.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">From a learning standpoint, a <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/exchange_student/">summer student exchange</a></b>
program can take on many forms. Some
programs focus on new language acquisition—a full-immersion language learning technique
that helps students master a second language exponentially more rapid than they
would through traditional language courses—and others programs focus on one or
two subject areas, such as studying Art in France or Physics in Germany. If you successfully complete one of these
accelerated programs, the best part is you can usually get full high school or
even college credit for the course, which means a course that would have
spanned a full semester at your home school can be completed and out of the way
in just a few short weeks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">I know what you may be thinking: “This sounds like an awful lot of work,
especially for the summertime, which is supposed to offer me a break from my
studies.” Actually, you may be surprised to learn that the traditional
classroom instruction portion of your summer student exchange program will represent
only a small fraction of what this wonderful experience fully entails. Most summer student exchange programs,
whether they are language-based or teaching particular subjects, conduct
classes only in the morning, typically divided by two 2-hour sessions. This means that the rest of the day and
evening can be spent visiting the various sites and attractions the country has
to offer, either with an organized group or independently.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Summer student exchange programs are the
perfect way to learn all about a new and completely foreign country; its
customs, traditions, language and people.
As a participant you’ll see things you’ve never seen before, taste the
local cuisine and meet and make friends with numerous people from around the
world, including local students and fellow study-abroad participants. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Summer
Student Exchange: Accommodations and How
to Apply<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Students will generally stay either in a
supervised residence hall or with a host family—a family that will be able to
show you around the country, take you to some of the most appealing places, and
provide you with a close link to all the physical and cultural aspects of the
country. You’ll also be able to share
information about your own country, simultaneously becoming the teacher and the
learner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">If this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity sounds
interesting, the first step is to check with your school’s guidance counselors,
administrators and/or teachers.
Typically, they will have informational literature on how to apply
(pamphlets, brochures, etc.), and will detail the various steps you will need
to prepare for your trip. Keep in mind
these programs are very popular among students and they tend to fill up rather
quickly, so don’t wait! Check with your
school early, at least several months before you intend to go, leaving plenty
of time to complete the application process, gather your travel documents and other
necessary items and reserve your accommodations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-10184696349830086992012-03-13T21:47:00.002-07:002012-03-13T21:50:07.775-07:00Online University and Online Courses in South Africa<div style="text-align: justify;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.spainexchange.com/"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 244px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-acZREOjnqs4/T2AjQswQtFI/AAAAAAAAAIE/ozgTvpQ8nQk/s320/image2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719610296558990418" border="0" /></a><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> 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font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Are you considering pursuing a distance education opportunity at an online university in South Africa?<span style=""> </span>Have you decided on which university to attend—the institution at which you plan to take the bulk of your online courses in South Africa?<span style=""> </span>Distance education has become a major part of the educational fabric in South Africa, and is particularly popular among those living in the country’s more rural areas and for people whose full time employment makes it difficult to attend a traditional university.<span style=""> </span>One institution that has earned an outstanding reputation for this mode of educational delivery is the South African Institute for Distance Education, or SAIDA, a university dedicated to transforming education and training in the country by providing greater access to every potential student.</span> </m:defjc></m:rmargin></m:lmargin></m:dispdef></m:smallfrac></div><p style="text-align: 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font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Higher education in South Africa is highly valued, and their world-class academic institutions aim to provide the utmost access to the country’s many educational opportunities.<span style=""> </span>Almost all of the country’s universities, of which there are 21, have now begun offering distance education programs—programs in which students can study online in South Africa, as opposed to the more restrictive and traditional university setting.<span style=""> </span>Needless to say, these online study programs in South Africa have become very popular among students.<span style=""> </span>According to university records, nearly 3 out of every 4 university students in South Africa have taken at least one course towards their degree using the online study format.</span> </m:defjc></m:rmargin></m:lmargin></m:dispdef></m:smallfrac></div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Study Online South Africa:<span style=""> </span>Why Is It So Important?</span></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">South Africa is an expansive country; a country that since the long-awaited end to Apartheid has become increasingly progressive, both educationally and politically.<span style=""> </span>Its population is almost equally divided between people residing in urban areas and those living in the more rural areas of the country, the latter of whom had virtually no access to urban universities prior to the development and implementation of a comprehensive distance education system.</span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">As computers became more advanced and access to the Internet became more widespread, <b style=""><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/study-abroad/online_courses2-ZA-en-dla.htm">online study in South Africa</a></b> became increasingly popular.<span style=""> </span>Individuals who were previously unable to take advantage of higher education opportunities—people limited by distance, disability or time, as is the case with many who are employed full-time—could now pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees, and increase their career knowledge and skill-set through advanced certification programs.<span style=""> </span>Online study in South Africa effectively removed the educational barriers for a significant percentage of the population—barriers that had formerly prevented educational attainment at the post-secondary level.</span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Online Study South Africa:<span style=""> </span>How Does It Work?</span></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">As mentioned briefly above, the majority of universities now offer online study in South Africa, including at least two large institutions at which distance education is the sole method of educational delivery.</span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Students who wish to apply to study online in South Africa are required to have regular access to a computer and reliable Internet service.<span style=""> </span>Courses are offered in subjects ranging from Accounting to Zoology, and class assignments are sent and returned electronically.<span style=""> </span>Some programs even offer features such as virtual classrooms and streaming lectures, where students can interact with the instructor and their classmates in real time.<span style=""> </span>Communication between teachers and students can take many forms, including email, instant messaging and video conferencing, and while some instructors may require students to physically attend the university periodically, for events such as exams, guest lectures, etc., many teachers will conduct the entire course through online study.</span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Collectively, the online study programs in South Africa have been instrumental in the country’s skyrocketing enrollment into university degree and certification programs.<span style=""> </span>Programs with names such as “distance education” and “<b 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mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Education is very important to the South African people and the research performed here can only be defined as cutting edge.<span style=""> </span>As this system continues to grow, and as more and more people are gaining access to educational opportunities, the country seems poised to make even greater educational strides in the coming years.<span style=""> </span>One major growth area in recent years has been the implementation of online distance learning in South Africa.<span style=""> </span>Distance learning opportunities, through online schools in South Africa, is providing access to higher education for people who were formerly excluded due to distance, disability or time, and is reshaping the educational landscape of what was once a very limited and elitist system.</span> </m:defjc></m:rmargin></m:lmargin></m:dispdef></m:smallfrac></div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">South Africa is home to twenty-one public universities and several private institutions of higher learning.<span style=""> </span>Together these schools provide a wide array of study and research options, and are designed to offer both local and international students a well-rounded, comprehensive and globally-significant educational experience.<span style=""> </span>Recently, the education system in South Africa was restructured and revamped, finally freed from racist programs and policies of the old Apartheid-based system.<span style=""> </span>This restructuring has led to the development of several comprehensive universities, including the introduction of “<b style=""><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/study-abroad/online_courses2-ZA-en-dla.htm">Distance Learning South Africa</a></b>”—a program that through several online schools in South Africa provides a wide range of degrees, diplomas and certificates and broadens educational access at the tertiary level.</span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">While distance education in South Africa had been in existence since the mid 1990s, it wasn’t until January of 2004 that these programs became a widely popular alternative to the traditional university setting.<span style=""> </span>It was in that year that the University of South Africa and Technikon South Africa merged, and incorporated the Vista University Distance Education campus.<span style=""> </span>The new entity formed by this groundbreaking merger, a merger which created several online schools in South Africa, became known as “Unisa.”</span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">According to university records, Unisa is the leading distance learning institution in all of Africa, with internationally accredited qualifications, top-tier instructors and world-class resources.<span style=""> </span>In each of its <b style=""><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/study-abroad/language_courses2-ZA-en-oi.htm">online schools in South Africa</a></b>, students, who, for a number of reasons, were precluded from attending traditional universities, can now gain the education and skills they need to excel in their future career choice; the knowledge to help them identify and present solutions to some of southern Africa’s most pressing developmental problems.</span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">While distance education in South Africa is partially funded and supported by the state, educational policy, curriculum and all personnel matters are the responsibility of each institution’s council—a council that is led by the University Chancellor and made up of prominent South Africans employed in a wide range of important positions within the community.</span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Distance learning in South Africa, and the opportunities it presents, is helping to ensure that EVERY individual in South Africa who desires a higher education is able to pursue that goal, regardless of whom they are or where they live.<span style=""> </span>Ultimately, this creates not only a more well-educated populace, but equates to a brighter future and a better tomorrow for everyone living in this rapidly emerging country.</span></p>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-30385578385235251732011-11-28T00:02:00.000-08:002011-11-28T00:16:41.042-08:00Directory of International Schools: A One-Stop Tool for All Your Questions<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WdlU2Bc0Ks4/TtNDWcIzeOI/AAAAAAAAAHg/roKxVZ9tfWc/s1600/international_school-1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 203px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WdlU2Bc0Ks4/TtNDWcIzeOI/AAAAAAAAAHg/roKxVZ9tfWc/s320/international_school-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679957607833630946" /></a><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">What exactly is a directory of international schools? To answer this question satisfactorily we must first provide a definition of international schools. Basically, an international school is one that teaches a curriculum that is different from that of the local schools, with instruction that is either taught in English or bilingually in English and one other language such as French, Spanish, German, etc. Some international schools will use a curriculum that is based on either the United States or the United Kingdom model, while others will use an international curriculum such as the International Baccalaureate, or IB program. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">The original intention of international schools was to provide education to English-speaking students from the U.S. and UK who were living in foreign lands, usually due to their parents’ position. More recently, however, they have become quite popular for local children whose goal is to learn English or another language and prepare themselves for studies or professional positions outside of their own country. This recent trend is perhaps most evident in India, where it is estimated that at least 20 percent of the local school children attend international schools that teach a UK curriculum. Not only is the student body of international schools multinational, so too is the faculty and administration.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">What Can I Discover from a Directory of International Schools?</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">A <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/schools/">directory of international schools</a></b> is akin to a “yellow pages,” of international schools throughout the world, although it offers much more information. From international schools, to all-English schools to strictly American schools, a directory of international schools can supply you with all you need to know about enrollment, program requirements, curriculum and more, all catalogued in a single place. Two pieces of information you can discover from a directory of international schools are:</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="text-indent: -24px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Symbol; ">·</span><b style="text-indent: -24px; "><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">Curriculum Type</span></b><span style="text-indent: -24px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; ">. There are essentially three main categories of curriculum, and although all three offer students an excellent and very well-rounded education, many parents will prefer one model over the other—a decision typically based on where the student plans to attend college. The three forms of curriculum are: International curriculum, a university prep model that is accepted at universities worldwide; the United States high school curriculum, which is also college preparatory and includes preparation classes for the SAT; and the GCSE’s and “A” levels that are targeted primarily at universities in the United Kingdom. While the credits for all international school curriculums are usually entirely transferrable to universities throughout the world, some universities prefer one model over the other, which, again, is usually the basis for a parent’s decision.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="text-indent: -24px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Symbol; ">·</span><b style="text-indent: -24px; "><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">School Information</span></b><span style="text-indent: -24px; font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; ">. A directory of international schools is also a great tool for finding information on a particular <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/schools/">international school</a></b>. For example, the British International School in Belgium, which this author located using a directory of international schools, has, among other things, “six large classrooms and a computer suite; small class sizes that average 12 students per class, a 178 day school year, and a school day that begins at 9 AM and concludes at 3:15 PM)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">These are just two samples representing the type of information you can discover, but as you can see from these brief examples, a directory of international schools can be a very useful tool for finding a variety of school and curriculum information.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8918006571510794354.post-9448446602229882832011-11-28T00:00:00.000-08:002011-11-28T00:02:20.894-08:00Study Abroad Programs and Scholarships<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qRx2M_lYKkM/TtM_9eQwGmI/AAAAAAAAAHU/TklE6GGdnJo/s1600/Study-Abroad-Program.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 280px; height: 280px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qRx2M_lYKkM/TtM_9eQwGmI/AAAAAAAAAHU/TklE6GGdnJo/s320/Study-Abroad-Program.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679953880372222562" /></a><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">Have you been considering one of the many opportunities to study abroad? Do you need more information with regard to the various study abroad programs and scholarships? Study abroad programs were first introduced after World War II as a way to promote tolerance between countries, and in these early years of the program the opportunities were very limited. Today, however, with almost every country in the world participating in study abroad and student exchange programs, the opportunities are virtually limitless. <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/schools/countries/">Study abroad programs</a></b> have become so popular that many foundations and organizations have begun promoting them by offering scholarships for those students who are willing to participate. To illustrate the diversity of programs and the many funding opportunities available, here we will outline just a few of these study abroad programs and scholarships, along with the details and requirements of each.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">Study Abroad Programs and Scholarships: Boren Scholarships and Fellowships</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">The Boren <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/">study abroad programs and scholarships</a></b> are quite unique, and are designed for United States undergraduate and graduate students wishing to become more proficient in the languages and cultures of countries that are somewhat under-represented in many study abroad programs, but extremely important to U.S. interests. Students can choose from a variety of academic programs, ranging from science and engineering to business and the humanities in one of the many countries located in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, Eurasia and Central and Eastern Europe. The maximum awards for the Boren Scholarships are $20,000, and $30,000 is the maximum prize for the Boren Fellowship.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">Study Abroad Programs and Scholarships: Fulbright Scholarships</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">Anyone who has ever been involved with education has undoubtedly heard of the Fulbright study abroad programs and scholarships. These scholarships are made available both to outgoing United States students and incoming foreign students, with award amounts that vary from student to student. The Fulbright program is designed primarily for those individuals who are either presently working in education and research or those who plan to pursue a career in these areas—areas which include university, secondary and elementary teaching, as well as graduate study and advanced academic research.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><b><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">Study Abroad Programs and Scholarships: Global Health Management</span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">Qualified nurses are in very high demand throughout the world, an issue which makes these study abroad programs and scholarships so unique and invaluable. Global Health Management is an international firm that specializes in healthcare design, development and management. The firm is currently offering 10 full-ride nursing school scholarships—scholarships that include airfare, tuition, housing and books—for students willing to study at the Shanghai Institute of Health Sciences International Nursing Program, in Shanghai, China.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align:justify"><span style="font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"">These are just a small sample of the thousands of study abroad programs and scholarships currently available. Students who need additional information have many resources available to them—resources that provide the necessary information on the various <b><a href="http://www.spainexchange.com/">study abroad</a></b> programs and scholarships—including International Education Financial Aid, one of the premier sites for students wanting to study in a foreign and country; and studentawards.com, a site that lists all of the available grants, scholarships and bursaries for study abroad programs.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Spainexchangehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08628752341729604605noreply@blogger.com4