ACA: 101
TTMOAIUS
Becoming an ACA student isn’t quite as simple as becoming a college student. A few minor differences separate most U.S universities from ACA universities. The most common difference being opposite sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Hopefully, this guide created from my experience will help any students planning on ACA.
Step One
Choose a language. This is actually pretty important to the process, as the entire point of ACA is to learn another language. Options range all across the globe, including, but not limited to, French in France, Portuguese in Brazil, Chinese in Taiwan and Hebrew in Israel. Each of these countries offers a unique experience and environment that will further your knowledge of the language. Depending on which one you choose to study, you may end up on a different continent.
Step Two
After you choose which language you intend to study, you need to let the appropriate people know that you will be studying abroad. Elena Cornwell is a good start as she’s in charge of ACA at Union. Speaking with your advisor is also a good idea since they have your best interest in mind. So does your financial advisor. Because of money. And we all like money.
Step Three
After you have contacted all the correct people, the next important thing to happen is to be approved by the school you will be studying at. If they don’t approve your application then it will be awkward explaining to people why you took an impromptu gap year. Do not worry because most applications are approved by ACA.
Step Four
Possibly the most important step of the entire process is this one. Negotiate with the U.S. government and the government of your ACA school to allow yourself into the country for studying. This is also the step where you must go to the nearest consulate with the proper paperwork in order to apply for the visa.
Step Five
Go back to the nearest consulate for another meeting. Chances are that you have everything you need. They will let you know.
Step Five B
Go back to the consulate. You forgot something. Brilliant.
Step Six
Correctly finish a consulate meeting, await for your student visa, pack your bags, buy your ticket and prepare yourself for a year abroad. You are now going! **
Alexander Nesmith is a sophomore studying communication.