What is better- to study abroad for a semester or a whole year?

I am wondering if studying abroad for an entire year is worth it... I am going next year (my Junior year) and I am able to graduate early as it already is... But I am wondering if this would complicate things back home with friends and employers... I would appreciate any feedback!

What is better- to study abroad for a semester or a whole year?
It all depends- if you want to become fluent in a foreign language and will be studying in a foreign country, it might take a year to fully adapt and get the whole experience (or speak like a native). Going abroad PERIOD is "worth it." Try talking to your employer to see what they say. If they don't want you to leave for a year, come back and find another job- guaranteed you will be more marketable because you'll have had the across-the-sea experience. And if your friends are really your friends, you'll stay in touch. Today's world is so connected with email and cell phones that are compatible overseas that it's almost impossible NOT to keep in touch! I encourage you to go a whole year, but ultimately, if you aren't comfortable with it, maybe starting out with a semester and seeing what happens is worth a shot.
Reply:You don't say what country you are going to ... but if your stay includes language immersion, a year is definitely the way to go! You will absorb so much more of the language and culture. Many students say it takes a semester just so they can really feel at home and talk to people! I think it would greatly pay off for you!
Reply:You don't say if your high school or college.


If your in college, all it can do for you is make you more marketable to have the experience. If you go through a your university study abroad program that is affiliated with foreign univ. you can use the units/credits towards your degree. So no time lost there. I have done half of my required classes for my Spanish BA in Mexico. I am enrolled here, it is just that my class room happens to be in Mexico. Costs are similar to here and no time is wasted. If fact by going to Mexico I am graduating early as the classes are accelerated in Mexico.





If your in high school, very few if any US high schools will accept foreign credits.


So graduate early if you can.





If your going abroad to learn a language, go for a year. You will learn it that way.





If your going for the experience whatever works best for you.





As far as jobs and friends, it can be worked out one way or another, just depends on how important it is for you to go. Jobs come and go, friends will always be there. Again, depends on what you want to do.





Good Luck.
Reply:It will complicate your social life back home, but not with potential employers--no human resources department in their right mind would look at someone's travels as a negative. If you like your destination, go for the whole year.