Summer abroad programs for high schoolers?

I'm a high school junior and I've been really intrigued by the idea of spending a summer abroad to learn new things and embrace different cultures. What are some of the best summer abroad programs for high school students that you guys have personally experienced or heard about?

There are several reputable summer abroad programs for high school students that offer a wide range of immersive cultural experiences, language learning, and opportunities for personal growth. Below are a few highly-rated programs that can provide a fantastic summer experience:

1. National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y): This program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, offers full scholarships for American high school students to study critical languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Korean, Persian, Russian, and Turkish, in an immersive environment.

2. Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE): CIEE offers various programs for high school students in different fields, including language learning, cultural immersion, and service learning, in destinations across the globe. They also offer scholarships for students with financial need.

3. AFS Intercultural Programs: AFS provides both summer and year-long study abroad programs for high school students, allowing them to study a new language or explore global culture and history in over 50 countries. They also offer scholarships and financial assistance to eligible students.

4. Youth For Understanding (YFU): YFU offers diverse summer or year-long exchange programs in more than 70 countries. They provide language immersion, cultural exchange, and volunteer opportunities, along with college-prep assistance for students interested in post-high school study in the host country. Scholarships are available for eligible participants.

Remember that selective, low-cost, or fully-funded programs are generally more impressive to college admissions committees as they show you've earned your spot based on merit. As you research summer programs, make sure to look into the application process, eligibility requirements, and available scholarships to find the best fit for your goals and budget.