Gain the support of your parents by giving them what they are looking for.
AFSer Kendra, for example, compiled a thorough 5-page packet to express how serious and prepared she was for an AFS experience abroad. And it worked.
Page 1 - A Heartfelt Letter
“Dear Mom and Dad…I would like to participate in an AFS program. AFS is a highly respected exchange program that has been sending students like me abroad for 60 years. This program allows teenagers to live in another country and immerse themselves in the culture. I want to participate in one of their year-long programs departing this fall.
“Now, I realize that this is going to be a big step for me, but I feel that I am ready for this particular step. I have put a lot of thorough and hard work into my decision and the packet of information that lies before you.”
Page 2 - The Pros and Cons
Pros: “I’ll come back fluent in a second language”, “This is a big challenge but I know I can do it and I’ll become more independent and mature in the process.” and “You will save on 12 months of car insurance since I won’t be getting my driver’s license until I come back home next year.”
Cons: “I will miss 1 year of school here in the US. However, I’ll be going to high school in my host country and it might be possible for me to get academic credit for my study abroad. I already have a meeting scheduled with my school’s guidance counselor I would love for you to come. She is very optimistic that we will be able to work something out.”
Page 3 - Costs of Staying Home vs. Studying Abroad
“I have come up with a basic list of everything that I spend money on in 1 year. I know that this list is just a good guess at the prices. I believe that this is an accurate expense chart, but I am open to your suggestions.
Kendra totaled up the amount of money her parents spent on one year of school (lunches, sports, fees), clothing, entertainment, food, utilities, personal items, etc. She then compared this to the cost of an AFS program for a year.
Page 4 - Her Fundraising Plan
Kendra then gave an estimate of how much she expects to contribute to the cost of her AFS program and how she plans to raise the money. (Need ideas? We have tips to help you fundraise)
“As you know I have already applied for a job at a couple of places. Once I get one I intend to keep it until the time I leave. The money I earn could go towards spending money and for paying for some of the trip. You and mom could decide what I should put the money towards.”
Page 5 – AFS Info on Thailand (or any other host country)
Kendra included a printout of the host country and program description for her host country. She also included US State Department information and a colorful map.
