The thought of my child announcing, "Mom, when I'm done with school, I'm going to study abroad," sends a chill down my spine. As a parent of a 13-year-old, I admire the courage of teens who embark on such adventures with little experience. But when it's your own child, it's a different story—would I truly welcome it with open arms?
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Our oldest is just 13, so we're years away from this becoming reality. Yet next year, he'll begin exploring study options and directions. They're already starting that orientation process, and he has no clear idea yet!
Studying abroad is invaluable for personal growth, especially if your child is unsure about their path. A gap year between studies or after high school offers clarity and broadens horizons.
Both my nieces spent time abroad and grew tremendously. One did a year of development work—not studying, but transformative nonetheless. It put their lives in perspective, something young adults often need. The other studied in Mexico for a year after completing her degree, enriching her knowledge.
I'm already pondering the 'what ifs.' What if, after VMBO in two years, he still has no direction? (Likely, given his current uncertainty.) Jumping into MBO might force a premature choice. Advancing to HAVO could work if grades allow—my partner's preference—but a gap year seems smart too.
At 15, still in compulsory education, he could attend a high school abroad for a year, gaining a massive language boost. Of course, it must be his choice; you can't force it.
Would you encourage studying abroad if your teen suggested it? Or propose it yourself? Fifteen feels young for such independence, especially without family nearby. But organizations make it feasible.
I've researched options: plenty of support exists, from screened programs to guidance.
For high schoolers, exchange programs like those from EF Education place students with vetted host families, turning a gap year into a supportive immersion.
A friend worked with Up with People years ago, living with a U.S. host family she still cherishes—a lasting bond with perks like future vacation spots.
Time will tell...
