Where do you envision yourself living while overseas (e.g., hostel, homestay, campus residence hall or apartment)?
Most programs offer a specifc housing option and each housing option has its pros and cons. Homestays will allow the greatest amount of cultural immersion, the opportunity to practice a foreign language, and frequently, home-cooked meals. However, staying in someone else’s home will require a certain amount of flexibility on your part and you will need to adjust to the habits of your host family. Students can not always expect a “typical” family. Sometimes singles or retirees host students. You can usually choose whether you would prefer to have small children in your home. Residence halls, if shared with students from the host country, are an excellent opportunity to meet many people. However, in many non English-speaking countries, residence halls, when available, are often populated primarily by international students. If you are looking for cultural immersion, make sure you will not be on a hall full of students from the U.S.
