Spanish immersion programs are quite popular these days. With today's high-quality online and software-based courses, however, we have to ask ourselves if they're really worth it. Well, are they? The answer is that for some people, yes, for others, not really. Let's find out if Spanish immersion programs are for you. You will make your decision by looking at three factors: money, reason for studying, and, odd as it may seem, holiday plans.
1. Let's look at Budget
Spanish Immersion programs are great fun and highly educational, but also expensive, so before deciding on one you've got to ask yourself, "can I afford it?" If "affording it" means taking on a large amount of debt, I would say that they are not the best option for you, not when you can buy an online or software-based course for just a hundred or so dollars. And not when you can use the Internet to speak with a Spanish native-speaker for free. If you're short on cash, but still want a Spanish immersion program, not all is lost. Why? Because there are a few ways you can lower their costs.
First, look for programs in South America. They are, for the most part, much more affordable than programs in Spain. Also, most Spanish immersion programs have varying lengths. Check your budget and then compare what you've got with the costs for shorter length programs. Finally, you can cut down costs quite a bit by choosing affordable living arrangements. Home stays or dormitory-style living arrangements are typically the most affordable.
2. What are your language learning goals?
Why do you want to study Spanish in the first place? Are you studying just for fun? Are you hoping to become a translator, or to start some other career where you must speak Spanish? If you're just studying for personal enrichment, then an overseas course may not really be necessary, unless you've got lots of money burning a hole in your pocket.
If you're preparing for a future career, on the other hand, an immersion program will be of great benefit to you. Not only will you learn Spanish quickly, thoroughly, and properly, but you will also have something valuable to put on your resume. If this is the case for you, you may want to pack your bags even if it means taking on a small amount of debt.
3. Planning a Vacation?
Are you taking a gap year after university? Are you taking some time off mid-career to reassess your goals? If you're planning on taking some sort of extended vacation anyway, then consider the cost of your Spanish immersion program to be part of your holiday budget. After all, the cost of your program includes housing and some living expenses, and you'll be living in a foreign country making lots of new friends and exploring lots of new and interesting things. If you do this, instead of just taking time off, you'll be making the most of your time by getting some much-needed time off and also learning a new language.
Final Thoughts
Taking part in a Spanish immersion program takes a fairly large financial commitment. For some people, it's most definitely worth it. For others, not so much. Is it worth it for you? Take an honest look at your financial situation, consider your language learning goals, and consider whether or not you can incorporate your studies into your vacation plans, and you'll have an answer to that question in no time!
Author Resource:
Want an immersion program? Read my article "How to Choose the Best Spanish Immersion Program ." Go now!
Prefer software? Check out my article "How to Evaluate Spanish Learning Software ."
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