American Dream: Studying in the US

A good way to gain your first taste of independence and experience a new culture is by living and studying in the USA, says Theresa Cassidy of Challenge USA

The most difficult part of organising a gap year is choosing from all the many opportunities available. Just to add to your turmoil, here is another option for you to consider!

The "Academic Year in the USA" programme, offered by Challenge Educational Services, is an opportunity to experience the American educational system, culture and way of life from within.

You can enrol for either a five or 10-month programme, following a varied sporting and academic curriculum whilst living with an American host family.

Placed in a safe and welcoming environment within a small to medium-sized community – never in a large town or city – you will receive the full support of both the host family and a network of local and regional representatives. The staff can also help deal with any issues you may face – such as culture shock, homesickness or anxieties about international and national topical events.

Host families

Students are placed in all areas of the United States. As the host family selection is a vital part of the programme, a great deal of care is taken when selecting the most appropriate family for you. The match-up is based on interests, hobbies, personality and family background.

The hosts are all volunteers who invite students into their homes as part of the family. They are extremely welcoming.

High school

You would normally be placed in the 11th or 12th-grade at high school. The American education system offers a broader range of subjects than the UK, possibly including American history, journalism, media studies, photography, marketing, business studies, drama, music, dance and more. As well as gaining a new cultural and social experience, you may find that you are able to pursue your academic interests to a greater extent to that offered by your British school.

Students have spoken of a relaxed and informal teaching style which they found beneficial. American schools outline their particularly aim to encourage students to think independently and participate in class discussions.

Some high schools also offer driver education courses, allowing students to earn their American driver's licence.

Sports

Sporting activities are a major part of high school life, and visiting students are encouraged to participate. It's more than just cheerleading and American football! You will have the opportunity to play a vast range of sports – with superb facilities available both at the schools and in the local communities.

Popular sports include the inevitable American football, but our own beloved football (soccer), basketball, baseball, hockey, tennis and track and field events; skiing, golf, water polo, sailing and windsurfing may also be available.

Local support

In addition to the support you will receive from your host family, you will receive orientation support and regular contact from your community representative. Additionally, you will have the full support of a school counsellor and of Challenge Educational Services for the duration of the programme.

Benefits

The relationships that are formed, both with host families and new friends, usually prove to be among the most rewarding aspects of the programme. You learn to be flexible and adaptable, while at the same time enriching your understanding of American culture, developing maturity, becoming more independent and broadening your outlook.

Challenge Educational Services

Challenge Educational Services Ltd is a well-established company with over 15 years' experience in educational and cultural exchange programmes.

Specialising in "total immersion" programmes, Challenge offers programmes in France, Spain, Germany and the USA. Courses range from a week's intensive language tuition, staying in the tutor's home, to a full academic year in France studying at a French lycée or university.

One of the most popular programmes in recent years has been the academic year in the USA. Students stay with a host family and attend high school, becoming fully immersed in the American culture and way of life.

Most universities now regard the gap year as an important part of students' education. Provided the time is spent productively, students return to their education refreshed, inspired and well motivated. It also provides time to reflect on previous studies and make plans for future progression.

Contact

For more information, contact:

Theresa Cassidy, Programme Development Manager,Challenge Educational Services Ltd, 101 Lorna Road, Hove, East Sussex BN3 3EL Tel: 01273 220261 Email: enquiries@challengeuk.com Website: www.challengeuk.com