Study Abroad Bloggers

Favorite Study Abroad Locations for 2010

With the countdown fast approaching, it's time to decide: Where will you study abroad in 2010? First, you have to decide what you are really looking for. Intensive language study? Party atmosphere? Which language? Maybe it's time to try something new, say Portuguese, Chinese, or Japanese. If you are a newbie language-learner, Spanish is a great place to start. 

Spain will probably always top the list as one of our favorite places to study abroad. Cosmopolitan cities, amazing food, non-stop nightlife, warm hospitality, the list goes on and on! There is such a range of places where you can study in Spain, from the capital of Madrid, to the stunning architecture of Barcelona, to the golden city of Salamanca. 

Video of Learning Spanish in Tenerife Spain

Watch a video of a Spanish school in Tenerife, one of the seven Canary Islands, which are located off the coast of Africa. Beautiful black sand beaches, volcanic landscapes, and a wonderful climate all make for a great place to study Spanish (especially if you live in a cold winter climate!) This particular school is Don Quijote, click to see more YouTube videos from Don Quijote Schools.

Keep Learning Spanish or French After Study Abroad

After studying abroad, the best way to keep your new language skills is to continue to practice and learn. Of course, when you are no longer being immersed in a different culture and language, this can be difficult. A great way to keep up with your Spanish or French is Think Language.

Think Language is an online magazine and community for learning Spanish and French. Designed to increase fluency while learning about life and culture abroad, Think Spanish and Think French are comprised of ten articles each month focusing on grammar and fluency. Each article comes with an audio file that you can play on your iPod or save to a CD. Also, each month you receive lessons, quizzes, vocabulary flashcards and more. 

Student Diplomat Video Contest Deadline Dec 15

A great opportunity from NAFSA: Association of International Educators and Abroad View, the global magazine for students! Deadline in December 15th. The contest requires you submit a short video from 1-3 minutes long, about how your study abroad experience has helped to advance global understanding. The winner gets $300 and you get to be the next Student Diplomat. The NAFSA website has the complete contest rules and tells you how to submit your video.

 Don't miss out on this great opportunity!

Economic Breakdown of a Study Abroad Experience

Interesting and relevant article from The Fairfield Mirror:

December 2, 2009 By: Cynthia Palmieri
Peter Caty/The Mirror

It’s a typical week in Florence and Katie Clavin ‘11 has spent 60 euro ($88) on her food, 300 euro ($444) on a trip to Capri, and 30 euro ($44) per night at the local bars.

With the euro rising to 1.47 in comparison to the U.S. dollar, it seems study abroad has reached new economic heights.  “The money situation is ridiculous, you spend so much more,” said Clavin.

Now's the Time to Plan a Study Abroad Trip

With the end of 2009 almost here and 2010 knocking on the door, what better time than to start planning a study abroad trip for next year? Teens and college students looking to study abroad during the summer months do well to start planning now and applying soon, before popular programs and locations get booked up. If you are thinking of doing a semester or year abroad, it's best to start planning especially early to ensure the proper steps are taken.