Ever think of going on exchange but didn’t want to have to learn a new language, adjust to a new country or convert your money? Participate in the National Student Exchange Program. There is a huge selection of schools. There are over 190 schools to choose from in almost all the 50 states, including two in Hawaii and three in Alaska, Canada, Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands. Think cost is going to be a problem? All these schools are available at in-state tuition prices. There are two payment plans to choose from. The most popular option is to pay West Chester University’s regular tuition rate, and your college costs will stay the same. The other option is to pay the in-state costs of your host school.
Are social aspects a priority? Think of all the people you will meet from all areas of the country. This is a great opportunity to see how people in other parts of the country live. If you make good friends, you can most likely come back to visit and stay with them for a mini-vacation.
As far as picking a school to exchange to, think of all those colleges you thought about going to and did not get in, or now wish you had applied to. Where does your best friend go to school? How about an Ivy League school? Since you are still considered a West Chester student, you do not have to apply to “visit” your exchange school. You can attend on exchange without meeting all the requirements of the school’s admission process.
You can learn a lot about the area as well. There is most likely going to be an abundance of new wildlife to learn about at your new school.
Academics are new and fresh too. You can see how your major is taught in other areas. The teachers are all different along with the academic buildings and classrooms. You can explore other classes outside of your major that are offered by the school that may not be offered at WCU, such as Archeology or Marine Biology.
You could pick a school that has an especially well developed program for your major, giving you access to some of the best opportunities in the country. You could use your exchange experience to look for graduate schools in the area or jobs for future employment when you graduate. It will also look great on your resume, showing your flexibility to be able to adapt to new surroundings and expand your education.
The National Student Exchange Program is a great opportunity here at West Chester University, so take advantage of it. The program is offered at in-state tuition rates, and there are so many friends to be made and social connections to experience.
NSE is a chance to learn about new cultures, and explore new areas. Become familiar with schools and academics in other areas of the country and experience new wildlife.
Requirements to participate in the program include having at least a 2.5 GPA and being in good social, academic and financial standing at WCU. It is best to go during your second or third year. Pamphlets are available at the front desk of most residence halls and at the Sykes Student Union information desk. For additional information visit the Registrar’s Office at the E.O. Bull Center.
So get away, but not too far away. Start your planning now. The possibilities are endless.
Lora Scotese is a fourth-year student majoring in criminal justice. She can be reached at LS590837@wcupa.edu.