ie-usa study abroad program experience the world with ie ... · ie-usa study abroad program...

iE-USA STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMExperience the World with iE-USA

2014-2015

For current pricing and to apply

visit iE-USA.org

Program & Country Information 2014-2015iE-USA National Office

209 S Water St. - Suite 102Northfield, MN USA 55057

Study Abroad with iE-USA in:

ArgentinaAustraliaBelgiumFranceGermanyItalyNew ZealandSouth AfricaSpainSwitzerland

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iE-USA National Office 209 S Water St. - Suite 102Northfield, MN USA 55057

About iE-USA 4

Why Choose iE-USA Study Abroad 4

Benefits of Youth Exchange/Study Abroad Programs 5

Ideal Applicants 5

Information for Parents 7

How to Apply 10

Country Profiles 11

Argentina 11

Australia 12

Belgium 13

France 14

Germany 15

Italy 16

New Zealand 17

South Africa 18

Spain 19

Switzerland 20

Table of Contents

[email protected]

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About iE-USA (International Experience - USA)

We care about each student• Each student enrolled in an iE-USA Study

Abroad program is paired with a program representative in the U.S. and in his/her exchange country. Whether it is an inquiry about the application process, upcoming exchange or questions during the time abroad, both the student and parent have direct access to their program representatives at all times.

• Safety is a number one priority for our program. Our representatives are held accountable for the safety and wellbeing of each student enrolled in our program. An emergency phone is answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. iE-USA also prepares a detailed contingency plan annually.

• Students are selected based on both academic standards and social maturity.

• iE-USA requires a high standard for host family selection. Host families are carefully screened and selected by our local partners.

iE-USA is a non-profit student exchange organization dedicated to promoting education and understanding through intercultural and academic exchange. Our organization is certified by the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel and strictly adheres to all U.S. Department of State Student Exchange Program regulations and guidelines.

We believe that learning about other cultures, languages, and customs is the best way to dispel prejudices and embrace global citizenship. Our students become fully immersed in the day-to-day life of a new culture, which includes becoming part of a new host family as well as attending a local school in the host country. This unique immersion experience allows students to improve language skills, create lifelong friendships, boost personal confidence and communication skills, and develop a deeper appreciation of the world we share.

Program Flexibility“Add-on services” such as travel, language services, and tours are available for optional fees.

Airfare is not included with program fees in order to allow students the flexibility to find optimal airfare rates and travel dates, or to arrange for customized travel plans.

Preparing for the JourneyiE-USA will provide a comprehensive online pre-departure orientation designed to prepare students for living abroad. Topics such as communication tips, culture shock and homesickness are addressed.

TranscriptsIf requested, iE-USA can assist with the process of course recognition and transcript requests.

Why Choose iE-USA Study Abroad?

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Over 3.7 Million students travel and study abroad each year. - The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development

Where will your journey begin?

Benefits of Youth Exchange/Study Abroad ProgramsLearn a New

Language

See the World

Make Lifelong Friends

Stand Out on College Applications

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A student who is ready to study abroad is:

• Eager to learn and to try new things

• Active and self-motivated

• Willing to step out of his/her comfort-zone and initiate new experiences

• Adaptable and flexible

• Mature and responsible

• An ambassador who represents his/her home country with pride

Living and studying abroad will prepare you for life in ways that no other opportunity can.

Ideal Candidates

“...a student who takes advantage of the opportunity to spend a year of high school overseas will be reviewed very favorably! I think that it shows that the student is open to new experiences, willing to take risks, and will be bringing an interesting perspective to the classroom at St. Olaf College.”

-Jenny Howenstine,Assoc. Dean of Admissions

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Who supports international exchange/study abroad programs?The Department of State and Department of Education both support international exchange to develop global awareness and leadership skills.

How will my son/daughter benefit personally from an iE-USA Study Abroad program? Even if a student has had minimal exposure to his/her host country’s language, immersion is one of the quickest and most effective ways to learn another language. As fluency develops, so does a new sense of confidence and maturity. College bound participants will often feature their study abroad experience to help them stand out to university admission review panels.

How is safety maintained abroad?iE-USA maintains an emergency-preparedness plan and a 24-hour emergency hotline for students, parents, and host parents. We also offer comprehensive medical insurance for emergencies abroad.

Does my student have to repeat a school year when he/she returns to the US?Each US school will have its own requirements as will the school abroad. However, many US schools will recognize coursework taken abroad when given advance notice. Some offer students the ability to get ahead or to make up missed courses by taking summer school or completing online courses. An iE-USA program representative is available to assist the student in working with his or her school prior to the exchange to make sure all course recognition requirements are defined.

Who is responsible for my son or daughter while abroad?iE-USA and our international partners take responsibility for student participants during the program. The host family also serves as a true family unit and establishes rules and guidelines, allowing each student becomes an active participant of his or her host family during the program stay.

Information for Parents:

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“No one ever regrets having taken a gap year, but plenty of people regret not having taken one.”

-MIT Admissions officer, Matt McGann

“I decided to do a Gap Year exchange to Latin America. I deferred admission to UPenn, and after my amazing year becoming more independent, I could tell that my year had affected my interests and passions and I decided to study more about rural and traditional medicine when I registered for classes. I have returned to my ‘exchange’ country 3 times now, with grants and scholarships, in order to expand my love for community medicine and nutrition. Without that gap year, I wouldn’t have realized you can travel while pursuing your interests, and I wouldn’t have had the language skills necessary to create a summer research project in college.”

-Reiko S. Gap Year exchange studentMD candidate, UVM College of Medicine

class of 2016

More questions? Please contact:

[email protected]

Gap Year Travel

What is a Gap Year and is it right for my son or daughter?

A Gap Year is defined as a student’s year between studies: a period of time taken after graduating from high school and before starting college.

Many college representatives have indicated that students are more successful and more likely to complete college after a Gap Year experience due to a heightened sense of purpose and maturity. Most colleges will also allow accepted students to defer their college admission for a year in order to study abroad. Many of our programs will accept Gap Year students.

Does studying abroad have lasting effects?

Participants gain a global understanding that sets them apart from their peers, the effects of which continue throughout a lifetime. Many jobs now require bilingual candidates or intercultural competency skills. Students who have studied abroad remember their experience as one of the most important and pivotal moments of their lives.

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What is Included in Program Tuition:

Included:Application processing & assistance

Host family search, screening and placement

Accommodation in host family and 2-3 meals per day

School enrollment, registration, and school tuition

Insurance

Program support to obtain the permit of stay or visa

Pre-Departure Orientation

Transfer from airport on arrival (by host family or program)

24-hour emergency support number (in host country and US)

Coordinator assistance in host country including progress reports

Mandatory host country orientation with coordinator

Administrative costs

Not included: Airfare

Visa fees

Spending money abroad

Optional ‘extra’ orientations in host country

Return transfer to airport

Local public transportation costs

School fees or supplies

Lunch if purchased at school

Personal expenses

Host country travel

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The Application Process:1. Complete short application through iE website and submit two most recent report cards.

2. Participate in Skype interview with iE representative (parents present for part of interview) before program deadline.*

3. Upon acceptance, submit full application through iE website, including all required documents (e.g. teacher recommendations, physician report, immunization records, copy of passport, etc.)

4. Sign program contract and submit down payment.

5. If applicable, obtain passport, visa and/or residency documents and obtain travel insurance through iE.

6. Upon learning of host family placement, book round-trip ticket (coordinate dates and airport location with host family and staff).

* Program acceptance/denial sent within one month of applying.

How to Apply

EXPLOREEXPERIENCE EXPRESS

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The CountryExperience the Tango! The national dance of Argentina embodies both a diverse cultural heritage and a passion for enjoying life. Argentina is known as one of the most ecologically and culturally diverse countries in South America. The terrain includes both mountains and beaches, large cities as well as small villages fill the countryside. Argentines are considered to be quite welcoming to visitors. Soccer, volleyball, horse polo, and socializing during community barbecues are very popular among all ages. Pesos are the local currency, offering an affordable exchange rate for exchange participants.

School LifeParticipants attend classes from Monday to Friday. Exchange students select one primary area of concentration: science, humanities, business or technical studies. The classes in a concentration can include Spanish, mathematics, biology, geography, physics, world history, physical education, and a foreign language (usually Portuguese, French or German). Private schools are affordable and recommended. Students stay in one room with all of their classmates while teachers rotate from room to room with each subject change. Uniforms are common and are often mandatory. The school year runs from March to December.

Argentina

AGE REQUIREMENTS: 15 to 18 years 6 months upon arrival

PROGRAM OPTIONS*: Academic Year - July through July or February through December

Semester – July through December or February through July

Terms- March to May / June to August (US Summer) / September to November

LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS: Minimum 2 years Spanish recommended but not requiredAPPLICATION DEADLINE:

Application must be fully completed before March 30th for July Program or before September 30th

for February programs. Short term programs require 4 months anticipation.

*Please note, the exact program dates may vary slightly depending on individual school schedules. Final program dates will be

provided after confirmed school acceptance has been received.

AccommodationThe typical Argentine family consists of a father, a mother, and two or three children. Extended family members often live in the same house and siblings usually share bedrooms. Participants are encouraged to develop a close relationship with all members of the family. Argentines are very warm in their greetings; regular exchanges of kisses and hugs between family and friends are a way of life.

Extra: The partner organization in Argentina includes a one-week arrival program in Cordoba (included in the package price), which includes a language and culture segment to help participants adapt to Argentinean life and dialect.

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The CountryThis country down under offers unique outdoors and sporting opportunities, two passions shared by many Australians. Australia is also home to the Sydney Opera house, the aboriginal people and “Uluru” (Ayers Rock). Barbeques are popular on the weekends, and Christmas is commonly spent at the beach since December 25th lands in the middle of the summer holiday!

School LifeMost schools in Australia are public, though tuition fees are required for international students. Uniforms are also required. The program representative, who works on site at the local school, is easily accessible to participants. English and math are required courses, and there are a variety of additional classes to select from including science, humanities, languages (even Japanese!) and art and technology. Most schools offer extracurricular activities such as theatre or chess club. The school year runs from January to December.


PROGRAM OPTIONS*: Term 1 –January through April Term 2 – April through JulyTerm 3 – July through September Term 4 – October and November Students may attend one or more terms, beginning with terms 1, 2 or 3 only.

LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS: None (English spoken)

APPLICATION DEADLINE:Application must be fully completed 4 months prior to program start date.

*Please note, the exact program dates may vary slightly depending on individual school schedules. Final program dates will be provided after confirmed school acceptance has been received.

AccommodationParticipants live with an English-speaking host family in Australia in a state of their choosing. It is common for families to host two exchange students who speak different languages. Host families are very friendly and will invite students to participate in shared activities, however, transportation by the family is not always required or expected.

Australia

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The CountryKnown as the country where Europe comes together, Belgium is a compact country nestled between Germany, France, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and the North Sea. The cosmopolitan nature of Brussels, capital of the European Union, has created a tolerant and welcoming attitude toward foreigners. Belgians are known for being humble and welcoming with a great sense of humor. There is more to Belgium than their noteworthy chocolate, including a rich cultural history. Visitors enjoy a variety of attractions, from the architecture of the Royal Museum of Arts to the original comic strip by Herge, The Adventures of Tin-Tin. There are two languages spoken in Belgium, French and Dutch.

School LifeThe Belgian educational system is one of the most thorough in the world, maintaining high student expectations. Participants follow classes in a local school from Monday to Friday. Those classes include French/Dutch, math, biology, geography, physics, history, physical education, foreign language (Dutch / French or English) and optional classes including Economics or a third Foreign Language. The school year runs from September to June.

AccommodationParticipants live with a Belgian family, speaking either French or Dutch depending on the region selected. Most families speak some English as well to help students transition. Like family members, students share in everyday life, participate in activities and adopt family rules as their own.


PROGRAM OPTIONS*: Academic Year – September through June or January through December

Semester – September through December or January through JuneLANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS: Minimum 1 year French if placed in a French-

speaking area of Belgium. No language requirements if placed in the Dutch-speaking areas of Belgium.

APPLICATION DEADLINE:Application must be fully completed before April 15th for September Programs or before September 30th for January programs.


Extra: Students will fly into Belgium and be greeted at the airport by the Belgium program representatives. Students have an option to add on a 3-day orientation in Brussels for an additional fee, or they may go straight to their host family. An arrival orientation is then conducted in the student’s host town by the program representative providing specific information about Belgium life, expectations, coping with culture shock and adjusting to the language.

“After experiencing a school year on the other side of the world, I now know how it feels to have a dream come true. My time abroad changed my life and me as a person. I met a whole bunch of incredible people on my journey. I learned how to open up and became a more friendly person. Special moments from my trip will always remind me to enjoy my life and be grateful for every experience.”

Kiara S

Belgium

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The CountryWarm baguettes, sidewalk café’s, and Claude Monet? Oui! Oui! Oui! France is the food and art destination of Europe and the home to architectural wonders like Marseilles Palace and the Louvre Museum. The French landscape itself offers a variety of engaging regions: the Alps on the Italian and Swiss borders, the forest covered Vosges Mountains in the northeast, the Pyrenees along the Spanish border, and the surf towns on the Mediterranean. An exchange program to France is an opportunity to share all that is French with a family who really knows its customs and the true French spirit.

School LifeThe French educational system is one of the most thorough in the world, boasting high student expectations. Participants attend classes at a local lycée from Monday to Friday. These include French, mathematics, biology, geography, physics, history, and physical education. Optional classes include economics or a second foreign language. The school year runs from September to June.


PROGRAM OPTIONS*: Academic Year – September through June or January through DecemberSemester – September through December or January through June

LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS: Minimum 1 year French

APPLICATION DEADLINE:Application must be fully completed before April 1st for September Programs or before October 1st for January programs.


AccommodationParticipants live with a French family. As a member of the family, they will share in everyday life, participate in family activities, and adopt family rules.

Extra: We suggest taking part in the optional Paris 4-day orientation, which is chaperoned by country staff. An additional fee applies.

France

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The CountryHome to the 2006 World Cup of Soccer, Germans love their sports and cultural events. Germany is also one of the most environmentally aware countries, utilizing renewable energy and recycling. Germany features the best of the European countryside, culture and architecture. The famous Brothers Grimm were inspired by these features of their homeland as well: many castles, the Black Forest, and the towering Alps. The modern cities of Berlin, Cologne and Frankfurt are filled with interesting art and architecture.

School LifeParticipants are generally placed in a Gymnasium or Gesamtschule, which are the more academically challenging public schools. Students participate in between 8 and 12 required courses depending on the concentration selected, which usually include courses in math, sciences, and languages. A school day is typically from 7:30/8am to 1:30pm or longer. Depending on the state, the school year starts in August or September. Activities will most likely be in clubs and groups set up outside of the school environment, as extracurricular activities are not commonly sponsored through school.

AGE REQUIREMENTS: 15 to 17 years upon arrivalPROGRAM OPTIONS*: Academic Year – August through June

Semester – August through January or January through JuneLANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS:

2 years German strongly recommended but not requiredAPPLICATION DEADLINE:

Application must be fully completed before April 30th for August Programs or before October 30th for January programs.

*Please note, the exact program dates may vary slightly depending on individual school schedules. Final program dates

will be provided after confirmed school acceptance has been received.

Germany

AccommodationGerman host families are eager to welcome American students and share their history and customs. Families are typically active, and many enjoy outdoor activities including: biking, hiking, swimming, skiing and playing tennis. The cultural arts, especially music and theater, are well supported in Germany. Even the smallest cities have festivals, musical performances and social events. Teens in Germany typically enjoy a level of independence that is customary for a young adult there. Participants entering into this culture benefit from close communication and mutual respect between family members.

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The CountryExperience La Bella Italia! Italy - home of great food, great art, and happy people - welcomes visitors with pleasure. As students embrace the Italian culture, they learn to speak Italian not only with words but also with their hands! Participants are placed anywhere in Italy, from the northern Swiss border to the sunny tip of its “boot.” Italy’s large cities and small villages are equally rich with history. Boasting fabulous pasta, crusty bread, snowy peaks for skiing, sunny beaches for swimming, Roman ruins and the best of 21st century design – Italy offers a unique student exchange opportunity.

School LifeItalian school is rigorous and student expectations are high. Participants enroll in the 3rd or 4th year of the five years of the scuola superior program. They follow classes in a local liceo (public school) from Monday to Saturday morning. Classes include Italian, math, science, physics, foreign language (English, German or French), geography, history, and physical education. The school year runs from September to June.


PROGRAM OPTIONS*: Academic Year – September through June or January through DecemberSemester – September through December or January through June

LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS: Minimum 1 year Italian (or other Romance language)

APPLICATION DEADLINE:Application must be fully completed before March 31st for September Programs or before September 30th for January programs.

AccommodationParticipants live with an Italian family. As a member of the family, they share in everyday life, participate in family activities, and adopt family rules.

Extra: A week-long orientation trip in Rome is included and optional mid-year trip to Florence is available for an additional fee.

Italy

“After school, I returned home on the bus with my friends, because it was quite a steep walk all the way back to my village! I ate lunch with my family every day, and we would have pasta often, which is very delicious! I played tennis 3 times a week in my city, and have learned to get good at Soccer!”

- Grayden, Italy 2013


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The CountryNew Zealand boasts ecological diversity unlike any place on earth: untouched beaches, gaping caves, crystal clear lakes, snow-capped glaciers, hilly pastures, and rain forests full of rare species. In many parts of the country, especially the North Island, there is a multicultural society in which Pakeha, Maori, and others share their values and customs. The result is an open, friendly and hospitable environment in which New Zealanders share a lifestyle that is comparably relaxed and informal. Students are encouraged to try new sports like Rugby, Netball, Cricket, or ‘tramping’ (hiking).

School LifeStudents may choose their school and region, in collaboration with program staff. New Zealand schools are aligned with the British educational system. Uniforms are common. Teaching styles emphasize discussion, questions, and debate, including both individual and collaborative work. Their saying “everybody can learn everything” is supported by their use of technological resources: high-speed internet, laptops, interactive whiteboards, and other technological tools. Teachers are involved in coaching sports, directing music and art activities, and mentoring students outside of the classroom. A popular course option is ‘Outdoor Education’, which takes participants to see nature, go camping, and learn leadership skills. The school year runs from January to December.


PROGRAM OPTIONS*: Term 1 –January through April

Term 2 – April through JulyTerm 3 – July through September

Term 4 – October and November Students may attend one or more terms,

beginning with terms 1, 2 or 3 onlyLANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS:

None (English spoken) APPLICATION DEADLINE:Application must be fully completed 4 months prior to program start date.


New Zealand

AccommodationStudents live with an English-speaking host family in New Zealand. It is common for families to host two exchange students who speak different languages. Host families are very friendly and will invite students to participate in shared activities, however, transportation by the family is not always required or expected.

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The CountryWelcome to ‘The Rainbow Nation’ and birthplace of Nelson Mandela! South Africa is like its national flag: colorful, varied and diverse. A cultural melting pot with vibrant and welcoming citizens, South Africa offers a rare mix of modern life, African culture, wildlife, and outdoor attractions. The nation continues to win travel awards for best place to visit, particularly Cape Town, where participants reside. Due to its complex history, it is a country on the move and constantly changing. The Rand currency offers a favorable exchange rate that is ideal for those on a budget.

School LifeThe South African educational system is based on the British model and holds an excellent reputation. iE-USA exchange students can attend either a quality public school or private school. Uniforms are mandatory in almost all schools. Participants take seven courses, four of which are required of all students. One of those classes could be the Afrikaans language. Students can participate in the traditional South African sports of rugby and cricket as well as tennis and football. The school year begins in January (recommended start date) and ends in December.

AGE REQUIREMENTS: 15 to 17 years upon arrival

PROGRAM OPTIONS*: Term1 – January through March Term 2 – April through JuneTerm 3 – July through September Term 4 – October to DecemberStudents may attend one or more terms, beginning with terms 1, 2 or 3 only.

LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS: None (English spoken)



AccommodationParticipants will live with an English-speaking host family near Cape Town, where the program representative is located. Transportation by the family is not always required or expected.

South Africa

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The CountrySpain is the country of tapas, paella, bullfights, and Flamenco. The culture has a great deal to offer, and Spaniards are proud to share it with visitors. The north is typically colder in climate than the south. Much of the architecture reflects an Islamic influence, dating back to the era of Islamic Spain in the 7th century. While there are multiple dialects spoken around Spain, exchange students are placed with families who speak Spanish as their first language.

School LifeSpanish schools are academically challenging. Most Spanish students enrolled at the secondary level are preparing themselves for university education. There are eight compulsory subjects, four of which are common to all students while the rest are specific to the selected learning track. Students can choose from five tracks: art, natural science and health, humanities, social studies, or technology. Most exchange students choose the social studies track, as it is the most culturally engaging and has the greatest variety of subjects. Students learn about Spanish history and literature while working toward language fluency.


PROGRAM OPTIONS*: Academic Year – September through June or

January through DecemberSemester – September through December or

January through JuneLANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum two years Spanish APPLICATION DEADLINE:Application must be fully completed before March 1st for September Programs or before September 30th for January programs.


AccommodationStudents live with a Spanish host family, frequently in apartment towers. Larger homes are uncommon due to limited space in cities. Families in Spain are typically small, although very close, and they give kisses frequently to greet each other.

Spain

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The CountryWho knew a country could have four declared national languages! Home to hidden ski villages and a metropolitan wonder, Switzerland has a great deal to offer. The diversity is shown in the more reserved German-speaking Swiss, the spontaneous French-speaking Swiss, the bubbly Italian-speaking Swiss, and the homey “Bergler” people of the mountain areas. Attractions include the famous Swiss Alps and the mysterious Swiss guards. Switzerland boasts one of the lowest crime rates on the planet – and high rates of happiness!

School LifeSwiss school maintains high academic requirements and student expectations, even for exchange students. Schools offer German instruction at school and often will offer a third language elective. Because not all Swiss teenagers can enter the prestigious Gymnasia (high schools) of Switzerland, participants study alongside the brightest local students in these schools.

AGE REQUIREMENTS: 15 to 17 years upon arrival

PROGRAM OPTIONS*: Academic Year – August through June Semester – August through December or January through June

LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS: Two years of German language


AccommodationParticipants live with a German-speaking host family in Switzerland. The diversity of the country and its cultures is reflected in the different kinds of host families: there are clearly structured daily routines but also spontaneity and love of adventure.

Note: Students must have excellent grades and German language skills to enroll in the Switzerland program due to the limited program spots and high school expectations. A 4-week German language immersion course prior to school enrollment is offered at additional price if requested.


Switzerland

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“If you’re thinking about exchange, do it. Don’t let anyone tell you no. Do it. Send in the application right now. You won’t be disappointed. I promise to the parents reading this, your son or daughter will come home a better person. Not just bilingual, but mature and open-minded, and willing to face new challenges.”

- Camden, Germany 2012

More questions?

Please contact: [email protected] visit:

iE-USA.org

EXPLOREEXPERIENCE EXPRESS

iE-USA National Office 209 S Water St. - Suite 102Northfield, MN USA 55057

[email protected]

ie-usa study abroad program experience the world with ie ... · ie-usa study abroad program...

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