How I Studied Abroad as a Freshman in High School

Post written by CIEE Global Navigator alum Amber W. from North Carolina, who was a CIEE Global Ambassador and participated in the Global Navigator Marketing Internship in spring of 2024. In this post, Amber shares her experience traveling on a summer abroad program after completing her freshman year of high school.  

As a teenager, you might think studying abroad is a dream—but with CIEE, it became my reality at 14.  

CIEE is the key for students as young as 14 to see the world and have the adventure of a lifetime. From immersing myself in new cultures to making friendships, every moment was a step towards personal growth.  

Join me to see how I changed my life abroad through CIEE’s high school summer programs at such a young age and how you can too! 

1. Discovering the Opportunity 

Scrolling through Instagram, I found a post about CIEE's programs, and the one that caught my eye was the high school summer abroad Chinese Language & Taiwanese culture program. Excited by the idea of a new culture halfway across the world, I clicked on the link to learn more. 

Not only did the program offer an amazing experience in Taipei, Taiwan, but it offered financial aid that made the far-off experience suddenly within reach. I decided to apply with the help of my mom—who gave her wholehearted support. When I finally got the acceptance letter and thousands of dollars of aid through the CIEE Global Navigator Scholarship, I cried tears of happiness and the journey started! 

To help you and your parents discuss your summer abroad program, share with them CIEE’s Parent Resources. 

2. Arriving Across the World! 

The first flight of my life was 23 hours in total!  

Touching down in my host country, I was stunned by the beautiful city of Taipei. Everything felt different and exciting. From exploring the night markets to trying street food, every day brought new experiences and stories.  

Everyone on my program was older than me and treated me like a little sister in the best way possible. They helped me adjust to the new country and gain my footing abroad. 

3. Growing Into a New Person 

I settled in and started attending classes at the local study center (NTNU)!  

I quickly realized that studying abroad was about much more than just academics. It’s about welcoming cultural differences, stepping out of your comfort zone, and discovering yourself.  

Despite my young age, I watched myself change during my program into a more confident, globally aware person who was ready to take on new challenges. 

4. What I Learned! 

Living abroad at 14 taught me the importance of risks and having new experiences. Being the youngest in the program, I was embraced by my fellow students, who treated me like family. Being surrounded by students older than me also taught me independence and self-reliance!  

On top of changing as an individual, I learned to navigate public transportation, manage my finances, and make decisions on my own. Those are lessons I will carry through the rest of my high school years and long after! 

How Will Studying Abroad Change Your Life? 

No matter your age, CIEE offers once in a lifetime experiences to all high school students.  

To learn more, visit CIEE’s step-by-step guide to a teen's experience that details the entire process from application to return from program. 

If you’re ready to choose your study abroad destination, start your summer abroad application!