Summer student exchange?

Exchange Student in England for Summer?

• Exchange Student in England for Summer? Hello. I am 16 years old and American. I have always wanted to go to England and learn their culture. I am interested in a foreign exchange type thing where I can live with a host family for a few weeks (3-8) out of the summer next year (2011). I was wondering if you had any suggestions of what to expect for price, culture, where I should go in England, the family, and what program is best and most reliable that I can go through? I would like recommendations of places to think for such as Doncaster, Leeds, Manchester, Bath, or something like that. Thank you!

• Answer:

  Hey! Last year (I was 16) I went to London for 5 month. It was great. I did an exchange program through an organisation called AFS. They found a great family for me, with a kid my age (who is with me now. As an exchange student you get to go, and they get to come). It is a little pricy, but totally worth it. I don't know your exact price, because it differs from country to country. If you are from the states, this is there website for you guys: www.afsusa.org When I was in London, I went to school there with them and on vacation with them. I got to stay in Edinburgh, Cardiff and Cornwall for a while, too. Cornwall is great for surfing, Edinburgh is probably my favorite city. Manchester was great, too. But I only went there as a tourist so I can't say to much about it. A cheaper solution, considering that you don't even plan to stay that long, would be to stay with someone you know. When I was there I made great contacts that my brother is benefiting from now. He is going there without an organisation, whatsoever. He has a place to stay and they told the school that he is an exchange student that's staying with them for a while. Is there anyone out there for you? Ask around, maybe you mums friend has a cousin over there ;-D You said you want to learn about their culture. You can only really do that if you are with people. So if you end up going there, make sure you can meet people. An organisation will do a lot for you (even if you dont like your family, they can find an other one for you) So there would be nothing to worry about. Hope I could help you the tiniest bit ;-D