I am a freshman in high school in the US and lately, I have wanted nothing but to participate in a foreign exchange program. I found a website that allows you to participate in a 6 week Summer Homestay program in a foreign country. The way I am enterpreting it, is that you stay in a foreign country for 6 weeks with a host family, as you would in a regular foreign exchange program. I was thinking that this would be easier for me because it would be less of a commitment than going for a whole semester or even an entire year and miss out on all my school work. I also think it would be more bearable being away from my family for a lesser amount of time while still being able to get the experience that I am looking for. The website i got the information from is listed below.

http://asse.com/United_States/summer_hom...

I want to know if this is legitamate. Will this still be able to endulge me in the same opportunites as if I were participating in a normal exchange program?

Someone else just asked about the legitimacy of the program they were looking at...and this site was posted by another person who seems to have extensive experience as a host/program director, etc. http://www.csiet.org/mc/page.do?sitePage...

She said that the programs listed at this website are legit. The program you mention is.

Six weeks sounds like the right program for you. You are young, and you don't want to commit to too much. Many people find the 13th year abroad program beneficial, as well, and the University semester/year abroad is another way to go (or do all of them, if you can swing the money).

Keep going with this, or check with your school guidance office, or foreign language teachers...someone between the two will also have information for you.

It's a terrific idea! Enjoy yourself!!