There is no doubt that studying abroad can provide students with many benefits. International education can surely develop the students’ cultural awareness and knowledge of others, boost their self-esteem, and inculcate skills that support a successful career. Though there are many options to choose from, you should ask yourself whether to engage in a short-term or long-term study program. The two most common options are semester and summer exchange programs for students. While both options provide great opportunities, we will see why opting for the latter might be a good option.
Foreign summer exchange programs are ideal for students who have an adventurous spirit but are not ready to spend a whole school year or semester abroad. These courses are usually open to students aged 15 to 19 and may last for several weeks. As the name says, these courses typically occur in the summer when schools are not in session. Such courses do not include an academic program and may be of two types, international youth camps, hosting students from two families, or tours that bring together students from many countries. Tourist visas and cheaper airfares make summer programs an extremely convenient and affordable option.
No Homesickness
While staying a whole semester abroad can be more challenging for you. As the summer courses do not last more than a month, you will probably not feel homesick. Also, if you do not enjoy the study environment, you do not have to endure it for an entire semester. Additionally, since you are a short-term guest, professional staff will make sure that you are taken care of. The experience will also help you discover a level of self-reliance.
Short Programs Come At Cheaper Costs
Since summer exchange programs for students have a shorter duration, they have much lower costs than an exchange in the same country. However, this might not be a general rule, as some summer courses in esteemed universities can be considerably expensive. Though these may include accommodation, they might not include additional food, travel, and activities expenses. Hence, you need to ensure that you get detailed information about the amounts that need to be paid. Some summer programs also include financial aid covering part of the costs.
High Flexibility
An exchange semester means you will have to study the subjects you would normally learn in your home university. But, a summer program will offer you the chance to choose a topic outside your curriculum, which will help you deepen your knowledge of a subject you are familiar with. You could also take an introductory course on an entirely different topic. You may be provided the option of choosing the difficulty level of your summer course in advance.
Relaxed Classes
Summer exchange courses are shorter and take place outside the academic year. Hence, students get a more relaxed study environment as the classes are shorter. This also allows for some free time for other activities. However, keep in mind not to underestimate the complexity of the courses because you still have to learn.
Extra Study Credits
Many summer exchange courses provide extra credit for completing the program and some may also prepare you in advance for a new academic year since the extra summer work will help lower your future academic load. While a semester exchange program will only offer the same amount of credit as a regular semester in your home university.
See also Medical School Mock Interview: Everything you Need to Know
Focused Summer Courses
Since summer courses have to cover a lot of information quickly, the subjects will be more focused on specific topics. Remember that smaller class sizes stimulate a higher interaction between students and faculty. The condensed study environment also helps the teachers answer your questions in greater detail, thus encouraging class debates.
