What are some colleges with exchange programs?

Foreign Exchange Gap Year?

• I've been toying with the idea of taking a gap year before I go to college. I'm in 11th grade, and I am not sure of any sort of major I will be wanting for college and I would like to have more time to think about what I might want to major in, and also gain culture. I've been looking into the YFU exchange program to France, and I'd like to know a little more about it. What is it that it says about a medical examination and a residence expense if you turn 18 while you are there? I will be 17 on arrival, but will turn 18 later on in the year. I have a few more questions: 1. Does YFU have a good reputation? Are the families ever unsafe? 2. I've had a less-than-good experience with my French teacher. I took 2 years of high school French, but I feel that I only learned the very basics of it, so will I even be able to get by in France? 3. I'm thinking of going to a French immersion camp this summer, will this make up for lost time in French? 4. Would you recommend it? Do colleges look down on a gap year? 5. What are exchange programs looking for in their students? Are they selective about the students they accept, should I expect it to be competitive? Thanks!

• Answer:

  How wonderful that you are looking at expanding your horizons! Going on exchange is truly an amazing experience! I didn't see anything on the YFU page on France regarding special provisions for those over 18. I suggest contacting the admissions counselors about this. (Email = [email protected]) Answers to your questions: 1) YFU has one of the best reputations of any exchange program. 2011 marked YFU USA's 60th anniversary. I don't know for how long YFU France has been around, but I would imagine for quite some time. YFU host families are screened in accordance with local laws and standards set by various agencies around the world. In addition, YFU assigns a local volunteer to "watch over" you and your host family throughout the year. The number one priority of that volunteer is your safety and well being. 2) I've never been to France, but two years is what YFU France requires. Without knowing the specifics of your French education, I can't speculate if you have had enough. I have known students that have come to the USA with only 2yrs of English and they have done well enough. Just be ready to learn, laugh about your mistakes, and ask for help. My guess is that it will be sufficient, but you will have to work your butt off. 3) I think that would be a wonderful idea. If it's something your family can afford, I would say go for it. It will be a good refresher and, because you have a goal in mind, you should get alot out of it. 4) I would absolutely recommend it. Colleges do not look down on Gap years at all. Students who take an academic gap year are often more focused and prepared for college. They also tend to be more mature. For a list of colleges and universities that actually prefer students who have gone exchange, go to http://yfuusa.org/media/Education/BeyondExchange2011.pdf . 5) It will be somewhat competitive, but not as competitive as some programs. As far as what programs are looking for, I'm sure you can think of several things yourself (openness, willingness to learn something new, etc.). Naturally, they don't let every Tom, Dick, and Harriet go, but don't stress out about it too much -- just be yourself and think about what you want to accomplish. 6) Living in a language is the best way to learn it! Naturally, alot will depend on you and how much language experience you have before you go, but s long as you fully immerse yourself fully, you will be amazed by your level after you leave. Good luck to you!!!