* Comment each tip. Add why you think so.
* Do not use the same phrase twice for giving your opinion, agreeing or disagreeing with the statement.
Dear Student,
Thank you for your email. So, are you seriously looking into exchange student programs? There are lots of things to consider: the destination, the length of the program, the accommodation options etc. Which aspects are the top 3 in your opinion? What do you think it will or would give you?
Here is my list of tips based on my experiences. As you will see, I'm full of mixed feelings as there are lots of advantages, but also several disadvantages. I believe that the pros weigh up the cons, though.
1) If you ask me, your first time travelling internationally is always a challenge, whether you're 10 or 45, but in my opinion the best time to do it is when you are 14 or 15. Do you reckon you are ready for it? At this age you are very curious, adaptable and ready to live without your family, aren't you?
2) Correct me if I'm wrong, but the most important reason for studying abroad is to learn about yourself, who you really are. Think about all those new situations where you can find out how you would react and feel. Taking risks, doing something new, being brave every day is so exciting and makes you grow as a personality! These lessons of real life teach you more than any school courses, don't you agree?
3) As far as I'm concerned, a year as an exchange student won't make you more tolerant or culturally aware. To be honest, this aspect is not important at all. As the saying goes, Estonia is like a true melting pot of traditions, languages, nationalities and culture. There is no reason for going abroad. You have always studied together with students whose native language is not Estonian, right?
4) As for destination, I recommend going to South America. I'd choose Brazil. You can already speak English, now you should study Portuguese. Wouldn't you say that Portuguese is the most important language to learn? Apart from English, of course. Another point is, as few people speak English well in Brazil, you are forced to learn their native tongue.
5) I'm absolutely certain that money talks. The more you pay for your exchange year, the better it will be. Choose the most expensive program. What are your ideas to get the funding? I'm thinking of a summer job.
6) Although there are shorter programs, if I were you, I would choose the longest possible. The best idea is to stay away from home the whole year. If you get an opportunity to fly home at Christmas, don't do it, because it is such fun to spend the holiday season with your host family and experience their traditions.
7) I strongly believe that eating the local food is essential. You didn't go to a foreign land to eat your favourite cereal for breakfast. If the host family has fried sheep kidney for breakfast, go for it. I'm very tolerant about food and ready to try anything.
8) I could be wrong, but it is more important to communicate with your Estonian friends rather than making new friends there. So instead of going out with other students from your exchange school, stay at your host home and chat online.
9) You probably expect you will have an amazing year, but at some point you might realize it isn't all unicorns and rainbows. Knowing you, I don't think you would feel homesick. If you did, you should ask your parents to book a flight home. There is no other way to handle homesickness.
10) The first weeks, or perhaps even months in a new school will be challenging. Without a shadow of doubt, always ask for help. Quite frankly, the others can't read your mind. They might think everything is OK, so it is you who needs to speak first.
That's all I can think of now. I'm looking forward to reading your personal opinion.
Take care!
Sam
PS! My application for a year in Brazil was approved. I'm going to look for a summer job now. Wish me luck!
