by Greta (Nov 19, 2005)

They are offered in schools, in magazines or on the internet. To go to foreign countries, live there a while, maybe to improve your own knowledge of languages. But is this useful?

On the one hand, an exchange costs much money. Just the journey there and back is very expensive. But on the other hand the result of exchanges can be reflected in (very) good marks on the certificate. Certainly exchanges, which last more than one year or one year, are often offered. That means that you have to repeat a school year when you are back in Germany. 

But you can improve your marks, for example in English, German, French, Spanish or Geography. And you can communicate with your host family even when you are back home, that is a good additional practise! Maybe you can go on holiday to your host family, too, if you work on your relationship with your host family (and their friends). 

In the end I take the view that exchanges are useful and important for your life. I think everyone should do that!

If you wish to react to this article, write to the editor.

Jan 21, 2006

I think that you are right. It is necessary to travel to become more open on the world. And to forget the false ideas on foreign countries.

Geoffrey (Blois, YGTP)

March 5, 2006

I think you're right. An exchange is very useful. When I'm older I will go to another country, maybe for one year or longer. But I think I will do that when I'm out of school after my abitur. But I think I will miss my friends, my boyfriend and my family.

Carina (Menden, Germany)