Do you know of any programs offering high school study abroad programs that are for one-four months?

How can I convince my parents to let me go on a study abroad trip? Please help me!?

• Hi everyone! I am a 17 year old girl, and I am going into my senior year of high school. Last summer, my friend nominated for a trip through People to People Student Ambassadors. Before I even brought the trip up to my parents, I did a lot of research. I researched way to raise money, how to get sponsors, how reliable the program was, etc. We went to the informational meeting, and they said no. Then, my school offered a trip to Italy and Spain. I signed up, but not enough people signed up, so the trip was canceled. Then, a few months ago I found Rustic Pathways. I really like their programs, since you can choose community service, and they are cheaper than People to People. Once again, I asked my parents if I could go on a trip, but they said no (I wasn't expecting them to say yes, because I would have had to apply for the trip that week, and I wouldn't really have enough time to fund raise). Anyways, I have always wanted to go on a study abroad trip. I would much rather prefer to go on a summer trip than a year-long or semester-long trip. And, I really want to go the summer before I start college. But, I can't seem to get my parents to say yes. So, how can I convince my parents to let me go? How can I raise money? And, do you know of any other trustworthy programs that allow summer trips and are not ridiculously expensive? Thanks! And, feel free to add any advice, tips, opinions, etc.

• Answer:

  Hi Addison, I really think you should tell your parents how rewarding is the experience of studying abroad. Learning about new cultures, learning other languages and seeing new things can only open doors for your future. If you can't do it now, don't worry because when you are in college you'll have plenty of opportunities to do it. There are several Study Abroad Programs offered where you can get the credits and don't loose the semester. Check www.aefirenze.it and www.italianlanguageflorence.com and good luck!