As another summer comes to an end, planning the next one is probably the last thing on a student’s mind. If you are anything like me, you have spent your entire life dreaming of studying abroad in college. Until recently, the thought of studying abroad with kids my age seemed nearly unattainable, but there are many travel opportunities for teens that fit any set of interests. Summer trip sign-ups open in the fall and are the perfect thing to look forward to as a new school year begins. Here are three summer abroad programs to help you achieve your dreams of exploring the world:

1. Rustic Pathways

Are you looking to grow your volunteer hours and make a difference in the world? Rustic Pathways could be perfect for you. A majority of Rustic Pathways trips offer community service hours, some with 60 hours in only 16 days. In trips such as “The Mekong Expedition,” teens stay in remote villages with only one bag of a few personal belongings and 25 days to travel from Thailand and Laos while engaging in service projects and learning about new cultures. On a more relaxed side, Rustic Pathways also offers trips such as “Best of Italy,” where teens will stay in hotels throughout Italy and explore the culture while still having the opportunity to return home to air conditioning and clean sheets. Rustic Pathways aims to help every teen travel despite any financial barriers. They offer need-based financial aid, scholarships, fundraising and special rates to anyone in need.

2. Travel for Teens

With over 166 available programs in 48 different countries, TFT is sure to have a trip to fit any criteria. A majority of their European trips allow you to explore at least three countries and gain the true “study abroad experience.” They offer several education-based programs including language immersion, healthcare and photography. Those looking for a shorter trip will find many under seven days. Anyone who registers for a trip before Sept. 30 is eligible for a 15% discount to help make traveling abroad more affordable. 

3. Moondance Adventures

Moondance trips are not for the faint of heart, ranging from 14-23 days and requiring you to give up all technology and methods to contact home. Moondance is all about stepping out of your comfort zone and living in the moment. Every trip offered is sure to challenge you both physically and mentally as they usually involve hiking through mountains or camping in the wilderness. You can visit every corner of the world through a Moondance trip, whether you want to go far to Kilimanjaro and Fiji or stay close to home and explore Yosemite or Yellowstone. Moondance offers financial aid on a case-by-case basis to help anyone concerned about costs. Ranging from adventure to leadership to service-centered trips in dozens of locations, Moondance is sure to have a trip perfect for you.