Saturday, September 28, 2013
People to People Student Ambassador trips?
People to People Student Ambassador trips?
i was invited to travel and study in England, France, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, and Switzerland in the summer of 2009 im so excited to go!! but i have some questions.. do we stay with families? how much would it cost? how many weeks/months would it be for? how did i get picked?? im to excited to wait for the meeting!!
Other - Europe - 2 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Last summer I went on a trip with People to People to Englan, Italy, France, Monaco and The Vatican. Overall, it was pretty good, but the leaders are really protective. It is a once in a life time chance, so i'de take it. 1. You usually stay with a family with at least 1 other person from your delegation. 2. Cost is anywhere from 3,000-6,000. 3. My stay was 21 days. 4. You probably got nominated by a teacher or friend in the program for good grades or personality. It's worth it.
2 :
Again, I went to Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji two summers ago. Last summer I went to England, France and Italy. I have nothing but good things to say about P2P! Both trips were absolutely amazing and DEFINITELY worth the money. If you don't mind I'm just going to copy and paste my answers from someone else's P2P question. :) 1. There is a portion of the trip called a "Homestay". It is generally 3 days/2 nights or 4 days/3 nights (depending on whether you are in Highschool or not). Everyone in your group stays in the same city/neighborhood. You will be paired with a family and may or may not have other students with you. I had a friend with me in both of my homestays. The homestays are pretty fun. You just chill with the family and they take you around their city, show you fun places. Warning. They might not speak English! My family in France spoke ZERO English. It was kind of tough but a good experience. The rest of the trip you stay in hotels. 2. Your airfare and all of your meals are included in the "Trip Cost". The only thing you will have to pay for when you are over there is souvenirs. When you add everything up (trip cost+souvenirs+luggage+random travel things) the total amount is around $7,000. But trust me, it is so worth your money. People to People also has a fundraising site with tons of cool and useful ideas. 3. Your experience will be around 19 or 20 days. And it will be the best few weeks of your life. 4. Your "delegation" (group of students you travel with) will probably be about 30-40 kids your age. 5. There will be four teachers from your state that will serve as leaders and will try to keep you in line. :) 6. You will also have a "delegation manager" from one of the countries you are going that can speak the language and help you all get around. 7. There are these maroon polos that you have to wear only on travel days. A "Travel Day" is any day you will be on a plane. They are super comfortable because they are dry-fit material. You will probably want to buy an extra to take along with you in case one is dirty. 8. A teacher or alumni ambassador nominated you because they thought you are worthy. So, Congrats! :) Let me know if you have any more questions about anything. I would be happy to answer and give you more tips! I can give you my email if you want.
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Saturday, September 14, 2013
Is this a good price for a European vacation?
Is this a good price for a European vacation?
I'm a freshman in high school and I was offered the chance to go to England, France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Switzerland next summer as part of the student ambassador program. But it's almost $7,000!!! Is that a good price for a trip like that? It seems pretty expensive to me, but hey what do I know? Please tell me if this is a good deal or if they are ripping me off! It includes all food and expenses and it's for 20 days.
Other - Europe - 4 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
seems pretty steep but it's really not for as many places as you're going. i studied abroad in spain last semeter and it cost almost 10 grand so it's a good deal.
2 :
Check out Cosmos Tours (i've done several of them myself). Very affordable: www.cosmos.com
3 :
It sounds expensive to me but if it includes everything - travel, food, accommodation - it's maybe not too bad. Check out a few other tour companies and compare prices before you decide.
4 :
how long will taht be for and what does it include sounds expensive to me
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I'm a freshman in high school and I was offered the chance to go to England, France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Switzerland next summer as part of the student ambassador program. But it's almost $7,000!!! Is that a good price for a trip like that? It seems pretty expensive to me, but hey what do I know? Please tell me if this is a good deal or if they are ripping me off! It includes all food and expenses and it's for 20 days.
Other - Europe - 4 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
seems pretty steep but it's really not for as many places as you're going. i studied abroad in spain last semeter and it cost almost 10 grand so it's a good deal.
2 :
Check out Cosmos Tours (i've done several of them myself). Very affordable: www.cosmos.com
3 :
It sounds expensive to me but if it includes everything - travel, food, accommodation - it's maybe not too bad. Check out a few other tour companies and compare prices before you decide.
4 :
how long will taht be for and what does it include sounds expensive to me
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Saturday, September 7, 2013
How could i move to Australia now?
How could i move to Australia now?
I'm a 15 year old girl from Belgium and i want to move to australia(in Sydney or close by Sydney) now without parents i want to go to school there but i don't know how or what i have to do.Thought about being an exchange student but i don't know anything about that,someone help please? :/
Studying Abroad - 1 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Hey, I'm currently 17 and trying to do the same thing. First off, you will need an Australian visa which you must apply for. It is expensive and can take several years. I already have mine because I lived there for a few years when I was younger, but my parents said it was pretty hard since so many people want to go there and cost thousands of dollars. Its much easier to get a student visa which allows you to live and go to school in Australia but you cannot work which makes it tough and you must be graduated from high school. I would recommend waiting until you're 18 and go to a university within Belgium that has a study abroad program with Australia. You wouldn't need to pay as much or have to deal with all the very confusing immigrations business. Also, when your 15 you would need your parents to sign off on everything because you're still a minor. If you don't want to wait until you're an adult, do some research on exchange program websites like this - http://wep.org.au/info/ hope this wasn't too confusing and helped!
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I'm a 15 year old girl from Belgium and i want to move to australia(in Sydney or close by Sydney) now without parents i want to go to school there but i don't know how or what i have to do.Thought about being an exchange student but i don't know anything about that,someone help please? :/
Studying Abroad - 1 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Hey, I'm currently 17 and trying to do the same thing. First off, you will need an Australian visa which you must apply for. It is expensive and can take several years. I already have mine because I lived there for a few years when I was younger, but my parents said it was pretty hard since so many people want to go there and cost thousands of dollars. Its much easier to get a student visa which allows you to live and go to school in Australia but you cannot work which makes it tough and you must be graduated from high school. I would recommend waiting until you're 18 and go to a university within Belgium that has a study abroad program with Australia. You wouldn't need to pay as much or have to deal with all the very confusing immigrations business. Also, when your 15 you would need your parents to sign off on everything because you're still a minor. If you don't want to wait until you're an adult, do some research on exchange program websites like this - http://wep.org.au/info/ hope this wasn't too confusing and helped!
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Sunday, September 1, 2013
Germany, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium and England.?
Germany, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium and England.?
Over the summer im going to Germany, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, and England. Im going with a group of people (called People to People, we're exchange students) and we will be there for 22 days. Im not really sure what to expect. How do people act, are they nice, what do they eat, whats on tv, what are some things I should see while im there, things like that. Any help will be appreciated. Thanks.
Other - Europe - 6 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Europeans generally do not act warm and friendly. They think Americans are weird because we act like we are friends with people we do not know. Several things to keep in mind: 1. Europeans prefer people who are peaceful and quiet. The more brash you are, the more they will think of you as an ugly American. 2. Do not ask them how they are when you meet them or see them. Just say "It is a pleasure to meet you." 3. To be welcomed, ask about them and their culture. Most Americans do not do that; Americans like to talk about how we are and compare everything to how it is in America. As for food, it is not unlike the USA, especially if you eat in nice places. They eat some things we do not, like quail eggs. I never got used to quail eggs. They also eat a lot of game animals like deer and elk. It's good. As for what to see, their churches are amazing; many of them have been around for 800 years or so. The museums are good, the architecture can be good, and there are lots of other good places that the locals can tell you about. Have fun!
2 :
Germany is nice. The people are okay. There's McDonalds everywhere! CNN is available on most TVs. There are American sitcoms, but they are in the language of the country. Your English will be enough in most places, but learning some German will help you in Germany, Switzerland, and some parts of the Netherlands. 22 days! Nothing to worry about! You're going through all of these countries in 22 days....you're going to be too tired to worry!!!! Grin! Have Fun! I know you will.
3 :
If you are an American expect to be treated horribly. Especially by the French or Germans.
4 :
mlmar625 your so ignorant!!! grow up and learn some culture. I'm from the uk and have always gone to Europe, (I have been to america as well) europes amazing and so is everyone there, just because youve had a few bad experiences doesnt mean you can judge everyone and everywhere. just learn a few phrases to be polite like thankyou, sorry, hello, goodbye. When I went to germany you had to have your hands on the table at all times (proboby only really posh places though) eat bratwurst :) I loved the food there. have an amaazing time im jelous :P
5 :
Europe is very diverse - language, religion, food, customs ... so it depends on the area u will visit. I recommend Hamburg, Germany.
6 :
There are some books out there called "Germany for dummies" or "the idiots guide to the Germans/Brits/French/etc", check those out. I really like the "Culture Shock!" and "Culture smart" series. Check out your local library for books or head over to amazon. (Read: Your question is too broad for a decent, in-depth answer here.) Wikipedia and wikitravel can also be very good sources. Just look up "German food" or "French food" or "Dutch customs" or similar. I personally would not worry too much about these things. It is nice that you are taking an interest, but: You'll be in a tour group and with 6 countries in 22 days you can expect plenty of interaction with your fellow exchange students, but not much more as you are on such a whirlwind trip. What else do you expect when you have 3 days per country?
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Over the summer im going to Germany, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, and England. Im going with a group of people (called People to People, we're exchange students) and we will be there for 22 days. Im not really sure what to expect. How do people act, are they nice, what do they eat, whats on tv, what are some things I should see while im there, things like that. Any help will be appreciated. Thanks.
Other - Europe - 6 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Europeans generally do not act warm and friendly. They think Americans are weird because we act like we are friends with people we do not know. Several things to keep in mind: 1. Europeans prefer people who are peaceful and quiet. The more brash you are, the more they will think of you as an ugly American. 2. Do not ask them how they are when you meet them or see them. Just say "It is a pleasure to meet you." 3. To be welcomed, ask about them and their culture. Most Americans do not do that; Americans like to talk about how we are and compare everything to how it is in America. As for food, it is not unlike the USA, especially if you eat in nice places. They eat some things we do not, like quail eggs. I never got used to quail eggs. They also eat a lot of game animals like deer and elk. It's good. As for what to see, their churches are amazing; many of them have been around for 800 years or so. The museums are good, the architecture can be good, and there are lots of other good places that the locals can tell you about. Have fun!
2 :
Germany is nice. The people are okay. There's McDonalds everywhere! CNN is available on most TVs. There are American sitcoms, but they are in the language of the country. Your English will be enough in most places, but learning some German will help you in Germany, Switzerland, and some parts of the Netherlands. 22 days! Nothing to worry about! You're going through all of these countries in 22 days....you're going to be too tired to worry!!!! Grin! Have Fun! I know you will.
3 :
If you are an American expect to be treated horribly. Especially by the French or Germans.
4 :
mlmar625 your so ignorant!!! grow up and learn some culture. I'm from the uk and have always gone to Europe, (I have been to america as well) europes amazing and so is everyone there, just because youve had a few bad experiences doesnt mean you can judge everyone and everywhere. just learn a few phrases to be polite like thankyou, sorry, hello, goodbye. When I went to germany you had to have your hands on the table at all times (proboby only really posh places though) eat bratwurst :) I loved the food there. have an amaazing time im jelous :P
5 :
Europe is very diverse - language, religion, food, customs ... so it depends on the area u will visit. I recommend Hamburg, Germany.
6 :
There are some books out there called "Germany for dummies" or "the idiots guide to the Germans/Brits/French/etc", check those out. I really like the "Culture Shock!" and "Culture smart" series. Check out your local library for books or head over to amazon. (Read: Your question is too broad for a decent, in-depth answer here.) Wikipedia and wikitravel can also be very good sources. Just look up "German food" or "French food" or "Dutch customs" or similar. I personally would not worry too much about these things. It is nice that you are taking an interest, but: You'll be in a tour group and with 6 countries in 22 days you can expect plenty of interaction with your fellow exchange students, but not much more as you are on such a whirlwind trip. What else do you expect when you have 3 days per country?
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Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Sixty-plus years later, does anyone accept the difference between the Waffen SS and the SS Einsatz Gruppen?
Sixty-plus years later, does anyone accept the difference between the Waffen SS and the SS Einsatz Gruppen?
First, I am NOT a Germanophile, but I AM a student of military history, and my father fought the Nazis. Since I have read over 200 books on the subject of WW II, I think I have some insight into the German soldier. I will not dispute the SS Einsatz Gruppen were murderers, thieves, and manned the camps. The Waffen SS, conversely, were all volunteers just as our army now is, felt they were righting the wrongs of the Treaty of Versailles, were defending Western Culture, and were all ardent Anti-communists, drawing volunteers from France, Belgium, Norway, Luxembourg, Denmark, Spain, and even Russia, whom they invaded. Even our adored General Patton wanted to re-arm them and turn them back to attack the Russians. In fact, the Waffen SS was probably the finest fighting force ever assembled, for the most part performed honorably, and fought to the bitter end against impossible odds. Their battlefield accomplishments remain unparralelled to this day. So, the "loser" is always wrong?
Military - 4 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
And your point is? A volunteer Nazi is still a nazi...only Jimmy Carter would feel differently.
2 :
I learned something by reading your post, but I still can't help but feel Nazis were still fundamentally wrong in what they did and my ancestry is German. If you look at it from a strategic standpoint, it sounds like a fine army, but an army is nothing when they fight for something that is against humanity.
3 :
They were on the wrong side, therefore they were crushed. Who cares how good they were. The only thing they really had going for them was momentum. Once they hit the brick wall called the ALLIES their fate was sealed. Just like radical Islam's fate is sealed. It can be no other way.
4 :
Waffen SS units took active part in many einsatzgruppen operations in Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Ukraine , and Russia. The SS cavalry Brigade massacred Jews found in the Pripyet Forest. the 1 SS Infantry Brigade supported various Einsatzgruppen operations and took part in the execution of 10 of thousands of Jews. Battalions of the SS Totenkopf division during the Polish campaign were the precursors of the EInsatzgruppen by performing mass executions of Polish intelligentsia, Priests and political leaders. While not all Waffen-SS units took part in the massacre of Jews or anyone esle they were still part of the Nazi apparatus of terror used to dominate Europe and elsewhere. As far as being an elite only a handful of the SS divisions one could consider elite. The remaining 2/3rds were average to below average in combat performance.
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First, I am NOT a Germanophile, but I AM a student of military history, and my father fought the Nazis. Since I have read over 200 books on the subject of WW II, I think I have some insight into the German soldier. I will not dispute the SS Einsatz Gruppen were murderers, thieves, and manned the camps. The Waffen SS, conversely, were all volunteers just as our army now is, felt they were righting the wrongs of the Treaty of Versailles, were defending Western Culture, and were all ardent Anti-communists, drawing volunteers from France, Belgium, Norway, Luxembourg, Denmark, Spain, and even Russia, whom they invaded. Even our adored General Patton wanted to re-arm them and turn them back to attack the Russians. In fact, the Waffen SS was probably the finest fighting force ever assembled, for the most part performed honorably, and fought to the bitter end against impossible odds. Their battlefield accomplishments remain unparralelled to this day. So, the "loser" is always wrong?
Military - 4 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
And your point is? A volunteer Nazi is still a nazi...only Jimmy Carter would feel differently.
2 :
I learned something by reading your post, but I still can't help but feel Nazis were still fundamentally wrong in what they did and my ancestry is German. If you look at it from a strategic standpoint, it sounds like a fine army, but an army is nothing when they fight for something that is against humanity.
3 :
They were on the wrong side, therefore they were crushed. Who cares how good they were. The only thing they really had going for them was momentum. Once they hit the brick wall called the ALLIES their fate was sealed. Just like radical Islam's fate is sealed. It can be no other way.
4 :
Waffen SS units took active part in many einsatzgruppen operations in Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Ukraine , and Russia. The SS cavalry Brigade massacred Jews found in the Pripyet Forest. the 1 SS Infantry Brigade supported various Einsatzgruppen operations and took part in the execution of 10 of thousands of Jews. Battalions of the SS Totenkopf division during the Polish campaign were the precursors of the EInsatzgruppen by performing mass executions of Polish intelligentsia, Priests and political leaders. While not all Waffen-SS units took part in the massacre of Jews or anyone esle they were still part of the Nazi apparatus of terror used to dominate Europe and elsewhere. As far as being an elite only a handful of the SS divisions one could consider elite. The remaining 2/3rds were average to below average in combat performance.
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Wednesday, August 14, 2013
People to People student ambassador programs?
People to People student ambassador programs?
hi, i was just wondering if anyone has every had any experiences with this program which takes students between grades 5-12 on trips around the world. i have just gotten a letter where i have been chosen to travel in the netherlands, belgium, france, englians, wales, and ireland over the summer of 2010. i am really interested in going, but my mother needs a little bit more convincing. i am 15. last summer i took a trip without them to europe and i traveled to germany, poland, and france. this was without any programs. i just went, met up with some people there, and visited the countires for a total of 25 days. this program is on average 3 weeks longs. i was hoping for some stories of people's experiences in this program to help convince my mother.
Studying Abroad - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Well the best help I can tell you is that my sister got this too, she is currently in the 11th grade and I think taht it's a kind of difficult process to go thorugh, Im not sure
2 :
i got the letter too but it is way to overpriced and one person died on one of their previous trips
3 :
The program is very reliable. I too got the letter and i did go to one of the meetings and i loved the presentations they gave. They also had students who traveled with them in previous years to share what they learned and what they liked about there trip. If you really want to convince your mother, People to People also has a Youtube account where you can see videos from trips. I haven't gone on a trip with them but im going in 2011 and i feel very comfortable going alone without my Mom.
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hi, i was just wondering if anyone has every had any experiences with this program which takes students between grades 5-12 on trips around the world. i have just gotten a letter where i have been chosen to travel in the netherlands, belgium, france, englians, wales, and ireland over the summer of 2010. i am really interested in going, but my mother needs a little bit more convincing. i am 15. last summer i took a trip without them to europe and i traveled to germany, poland, and france. this was without any programs. i just went, met up with some people there, and visited the countires for a total of 25 days. this program is on average 3 weeks longs. i was hoping for some stories of people's experiences in this program to help convince my mother.
Studying Abroad - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Well the best help I can tell you is that my sister got this too, she is currently in the 11th grade and I think taht it's a kind of difficult process to go thorugh, Im not sure
2 :
i got the letter too but it is way to overpriced and one person died on one of their previous trips
3 :
The program is very reliable. I too got the letter and i did go to one of the meetings and i loved the presentations they gave. They also had students who traveled with them in previous years to share what they learned and what they liked about there trip. If you really want to convince your mother, People to People also has a Youtube account where you can see videos from trips. I haven't gone on a trip with them but im going in 2011 and i feel very comfortable going alone without my Mom.
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Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Exchange Student Choices?
Exchange Student Choices?
I am interested on going on a 6 week foreign exchange with Rotary. My choices are Austria, Belgium, Brazil, France, Germany, Sweden or Switzerland. I am going during December/January. I am in high school and because I live in South Africa also learn Afrikaans (7th year now). Which one do you suggest for any reasons including new years etc. I can only go to one country. Also what type of area do you enter? Upper/Middle/Low Class Areas. And any other info would be great.
Other - Europe - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
See what's they said Students do not attend school and are instead given a brief introduction to the language of their host country with heavy emphasis on sightseeing and cultural learning. Upon their return they are expected to give a short presentation on their experience to their sponsors. Rotary International also offers a program called R.O.S.E.(rotary overseas short-term exchange) where a student exchanges homes directly with another student of a foreign country at the same time. Today, many Rotary Exchange students can be recognized by their Rotary Youth Exchange blazer. While most countries recommend navy blue, the blazer may also be dark green, red, black, or maroon. The color of the blazer usually depends on which country or region the exchange student is from. One Rotary tradition is that students cover their blazers in pins and patches they have traded with other students or bought in places they have visited as evidence of their exchange. It is popular for the students to bring a large collection of national- or regional-themed pins and trade them with students from other areas. This tradition is popular worldwide. Application The selection process may vary by district and country, but most students apply to a Rotary Club in their hometown or a nearby town as the first step. The student will likely be interviewed by this Rotary Club and if this club agrees to sponsor the student, the student's application will be extensive, according to most students. It consists of 12-15 pages, and 4 exact copies which must each be signed in blue ink. The application asks for basic general information, medical history, dental history, principal or guidance counselor review, grades from the past 2 years, teacher recommendation, and personal questions answered by the student. Orientation Prior to leaving, most districts hold orientations for the students. These orientations usually include a variety of seminars and activities designed to prepare students for their exchanges. Topics covered usually include program rules, discussions with former exchange students about their experiences, and information about what students need to do before their departure. Students also learn about how to make a presentation about their home country and region, which they will usually be required to present to their hosting Rotary club and may be invited to present to other groups as well. Inbound exchange students may also participate in the orientations as well. The rules discussed may vary somewhat, but the "4 D's" apply to all students regardless of home or host country. The 4 D's are the four most important Rotary exchange rules: No driving No drinking No serious dating No drugs http://www.rotary1900.de/jugenddienst/ in Germany http://www.rotarystudent.se/ Rotary Youth Exchange, Sweden http://www.crjfr.org/Portail/index.asp France
2 :
I would suggest Austria cuz there's so much history there
3 :
In order from what would be my first choice to what would be my last: Switzerland, France, Sweden, Belgium, Austria, Germany
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