If you’re here, it’s likely because the idea of a cultural exchange is on your mind, but perhaps you’re unsure where to begin. Fear not, you’re in the right place! Before embarking on the thrilling journey of exchange, it’s important to understand that our aim isn’t to discredit the notion of doing a cultural exchange with agency, but rather to present a more authentic and accessible alternative.
After years immersed in the world of exchange, the innovative proposal of dothegap was born, which we’ll introduce to you shortly. But first, let’s explore why opting for an exchange agency might not be the best idea.
1.Exorbitant costs:
Imagine paying around 4,000 euros for just one month of exchange. Sounds excessive? For many, it is. And bear in mind, this is considered “economical” because it’s only for one month!
Agencies often justify these costs by claiming to manage visas, travel insurance, flights, and accommodations. However, in this era of information, these tasks are easily achievable independently. At dothegap, we believe in a direct approach, offering free guidance for those in need. We strive to be facilitators, not financial barriers.
2.Restrictions on Duration and Established Destinations:
Cultural exchange agencies tend to offer packages with pre-established durations (such as one month in summer, one semester, or one academic year), limiting your ability to choose when and where to explore. Do you want to venture into a lesser-known country or only have time for a few weeks? Agencies often promote their standard packages, diverting from your initial goals.
At dothegap, we reject limitations. We break away from the rigidity of pre-established packages and offer you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Feel the call of adventure in the Alps for skiing in winter? Or perhaps you prefer to discover the authenticity of Ivory Coast in autumn? We believe it’s your exchange, your season, your choice!
3.Demotivated Host Families:
Picture the excitement of your exchange adventure, only to discover that the host family who promised you a warm welcome had more financial than cultural motivations. This challenge is more common than you think, and agencies as intermediaries cannot always guarantee the authenticity of the experience.
Disappointments vary: from the “central” location turning out to be an endless commute, to realizing you’ll be sharing space with another exchange student from your own country, a surprise nobody mentioned.
And just when you thought “full board with meals and dinners” would be the highlight, the reality is different. Repetitive dishes and solitary meals fall short of the shared experience you anticipated.
4 Language course problems:
When opting for a cultural exchange with agency, they often offer packages including language courses. However, this apparent advantage can pose unexpected challenges.
In their pursuit of maximizing profits, agencies often exceed recommended student limits per class. The result: they assign you an incorrect language level and group you with classmates from your own country. Instead of immersing yourself in the richness of the local language, you end up surrounded by acquaintances from your home country.
This practice undermines the primary purpose of exchange: learning the language through real immersion. You end up paying for a language course that you could comfortably undertake in your own country, missing the opportunity to connect with locals and immerse yourself in the authentic cultural experience of this trip.
Goodbye, cultural exchange with agency; Hello, dothegap!
To revolutionize the organization and experience of exchange, dothegap is launched, offering a solution for those seeking genuine immersion at minimal cost.
Ultimately, the true exchange student desires a contact in another country with whom they can connect before departing, discussing interests without being directed on when and how to do so.
At dothegap, you decide how to conduct your exchange, breaking free from agency restrictions and offering the freedom to explore, learn, and immerse yourself in the authentic cultural experience of your desired country.
If this article about the disadvantages of exchange with an agency has piqued your interest, we invite you to explore our other blog about 5 common mistakes in the exchange experience. Discover more tips to make your adventure an unforgettable experience!
Why not embark on a cultural exchange with an agency? The answer lies in the innovative proposal of dothegap. Goodbye, cultural exchange with agency; Hello, dothegap!
