Taking part in community service programs enables teenagers to learn new skills, teaches them about social responsibility and helps them to meet new people. It is an experience that will aid them throughout their lives and encourage them to stay socially active and make volunteering a part of their future. When this experience is combined with high school exchange programs it helps them to be more aware of global concerns and become more culturally diverse. Nacel International offers the opportunity for high school students to have this unique experience. Their Costa Rica program, available at this website http://www.nacel.org/high-school-programs/costa-rica, makes it possible to do important hands-on work with a regional environmental project already in place in the beautiful country.
Of course, many children want to use their time away to focus on their education and would feel overwhelmed by adding another responsibility. Traditional exchange programs provide the perfect opportunity for these students. It is important for teenagers to be committed to the experience in order to flourish in this type of program. Parents should consider carefully about whether or not this is the right option for their child.
They must be interested in immersing themselves in the culture of the country and accept the language, food and much more during their stay.
The student should be outgoing and independent enough to withstand being away from their family for an extended period of time.
The new high school, host family and exchange service expect a certain amount of commitment and a good standard of behavior. They should not go if they are not willing to work hard and follow the rules and standards of the country they are visiting.
They must be respectful of their host family because they will be living in the home of volunteers that have agreed to care for them during this experience.
The few months spent as an exchange student are memories that will remain with the student forever. It will build confidence, provide perspective and give them an edge when applying for future employment. There are benefits in every exchange program no matter what country the student visits. The participants can use the experience to prepare for specific careers, learn more about where their ancestors came from or satisfy their curiosity about a country they have always wished to visit. Interested families should check them out to see what programs are available and learn how to prepare for taking part in this exciting opportunity.