AFS Intercultural Programs - Hong Kong High School Program

  China

• Hong Kong: 
Hong Kong

Duration of Program: 7-12 months
Dates: Year High School (Fall): Aug. 2010- Jun. 2011

Description: Experience an AFS program like no other! Study abroad in Hong Kong and live - as a local - in one of the most international, cosmopolitan, and dynamic cities in the world. You'll be surrounded by breathtaking views of the harbor (Hong Kong means fragrant harbor) and the mix of East and West that creates a truly global city. The past and future contrast beautifully in Hong Kong: enormous skyscrapers are built using an ancient technique of bamboo scaffolding; herbal medicine shops abut trendy clothing boutiques; wheelbarrows are parked next to Rolls Royce's; markets are open round-the-clock; and birds in cages are taken for strolls in the parks past roadside fortune tellers.

Highlights: When you arrive, you'll be introduced to your host family and attend a 2-3 day orientation and an introduction to etiquette and culture. Free Cantonese classes are offered for 3 months upon arrival and begin the same time as school classes. There are two branches of study - arts or sciences. Classes are challenging, and usually conducted in Cantonese. Helping with your adjustment will be the time you spend with new friends, whether it's going to the movies, outings at the beach, or participating in sports or school clubs. Chinese society values family relationships, and you will learn a lot from your host family. Having dinner together and gathering as a family, especially on Sunday, is expected. There are also opportunities to be involved in community service to further enrich your experience. AFS Hong Kong arranges various activities for participants for free, such as Chinese cooking classes, Chinese calligraphy classes, and Tai Chi classes. You will live with a volunteer host family giving you a glimpse at the day-to-day family life.

Cost in US$: Programs: Year (USD 11,000)

This Program is open to American Participants.

Application Process Involves:

• In-Person Interview Required
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

AFS Intercultural Programs/USA's Mission Statement: AFS Intercultural Programs is an international, voluntary, non-governmental, non-profit organization that provides intercultural learning opportunities to help people develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to create a more just and peaceful world. AFS Intercultural Programs is a leader in intercultural learning and offers international exchange programs in over 50 countries around the world through independent, not-for-profit AFS organizations, each with a network of volunteers, a professionally staffed office, and headed up by a volunteer board.

Year Founded: 1947