Global awareness is a growing factor in college admissions. Here’s how to gain international experiences at low or no costs!
Recently, research by The Ivy Institute found that global awareness of others is becoming increasingly important in the college admissions process, and it may quickly become one of the most important factors in coming years. However, traveling internationally can be expensive and not accessible to all students.
There are many free international opportunities for high school students to learn and gain valuable experiences. Here are a few options:
Virtual exchanges: Virtual exchanges are online programs that allow students to connect with peers from around the world and engage in virtual discussions, activities, and projects. Some examples include the Stevens Initiative Virtual Exchange Program and iEARN-USA.
MOOCs: Massive open online courses (MOOCs) are free online courses offered by universities and educational organizations. Some MOOC providers offer courses on global issues and cross-cultural communication, such as edX, Coursera, and FutureLearn.
International competitions: International competitions such as the International Mathematical Olympiad and the International Physics Olympiad provide opportunities for high school students to compete and collaborate with peers from around the world in fields such as science, math, and technology.
Language learning programs: Many language learning programs, such as Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, and Babbel, offer free online courses and resources to help students learn languages spoken around the world.
Cultural exchange programs: Cultural exchange programs, such as AFS-USA and Youth For Understanding, provide opportunities for high school students to live and study abroad with host families and gain firsthand cultural experiences.
These are just a few examples of the many free international opportunities available to high school students. It's important to research and evaluate each opportunity to determine if it aligns with your interests and goals, and to consider any associated costs, such as travel expenses or program fees.
