A new trend is emerging. Study abroad programs were once the exclusive domain of college juniors — but high school juniors are now heading overseas. In 2010, approximately 2,000 American high school students studied abroad, according to the National Center for Education Statistics; those numbers have been rising over the past few years. But with the college admissions process starting up so quickly upon a student’s return, is studying abroad sabotaging a student’s college dreams?

High school is the time for students to differentiate themselves. While taking Advanced Placement courses, competing in sports, and leading school clubs are the norm, students need to think outside the box. For those who feel stifled in their emotional and academic growth, there are alternatives.

[lz_ndn video=31102015]

Nicole Chase of Westchester County, New York, wanted new experiences. While she is fond of many of the roughly 100 students in her class, the majority of her classmates have been together since kindergarten. She’s a bright student full of curiosity; she wanted to expand her perspective and develop a deeper understanding of the world. She wanted a new challenge — an adventure.

One of the most challenging aspects of studying abroad is locating the right program. Chase spent weeks researching and eventually found a program called School Year Abroad (SYA) based in North Andover, Massachusetts. She’s now studying in Zaragoza, Spain. Working closely with her school counselor, this motivated student ensured that her credits at the new school would be transferable. She’ll actually receive grades for her classes rather than the conventional pass/fail.

Since all of Nicole Chase’s classes, aside from English and math, are taught in Spanish, she has to deal with additional challenges in her learning. As a result, she is “concerned when it comes to college admissions … because I know my grades from this year won’t be of the same caliber of my grades from prior years.” In addition, her new school’s curriculum is very demanding — but she refuses to make any excuses. Chase will be studying in her school in Zaragoza for the entire school year.

Related: Examples of Grace, Dignity Will Benefit Our Kids

The intensity of junior year is well-known. Where do students such as Chase take their standardized tests? “All SYA school locations are also verified testing centers, so I will be taking my tests at school,” she said. SYA offers SAT and ACT prep courses as well.

And what about developing that ever-important student/college counselor relationship? The reality is that counselors at most high schools are too involved with their current batch of seniors and their college admissions to really get to know the juniors. By checking in periodically through emails, Chase will build a bond with her counselor. Rather than simply stopping by her counselor’s office, she’ll be sharing her adventures from thousands of miles away.

When she returns from her overseas studies, she will have ample time to start the college admissions process. School college counselors frequently request a “brag sheet” from each student at the start of senior year, in which the student highlights his or her accomplishments. This information is typically incorporated into the counselor’s recommendations.

Who do you think would win the Presidency?

By completing the poll, you agree to receive emails from LifeZette, occasional offers from our partners and that you've read and agree to our privacy policy and legal statement.

Related: How to Ace the College Essay

By studying abroad, this student is differentiating herself from the pack. Colleges will be excited by her independent spirit. With approximately 30 percent of college students dropping out after their freshman year, according to U.S. News & World Report, college admissions officers will have less to worry about with students like Nicole Chase. In Spain, she is managing her own life and developing the resiliency to effectively handle emotional and social challenges. As a result, she won’t be overwhelmed by the independence she will receive in college; she will fully take on the responsibility and likely perform well.

In spite of the benefits, students who participate in high school study abroad programs are still outliers.

This student is developing the resiliency to effectively handle life’s challenges.

“A study abroad program during high school is certainly nothing I had ever contemplated,” said mom Suzanne Chase. But she was very impressed with SYA’s “extensive vetting process to match students with their host families.” And the results have been excellent — her daughter is extremely happy with her host family, describing them as a “phenomenal group of people.”

One of the major drawbacks of high school study abroad programs is cost — the SYA program is roughly $58,000 a year. SYA offers scholarships both for merit and financial aid to offset the costs, but there are less expensive options. AFS Intercultural Programs cost approximately $13,000 for the school year. The Rotary Club’s Youth Exchange program can be even more affordable — but the parents must host a student in their home in exchange.

Related: How to Thrive in College

Studying abroad is a life-changing decision. As a result, it is imperative that parents and students thoroughly research programs and talk with students who have been through the program to get their perspective. Ultimately, such a bold and unconventional decision may result in many unexpected rewards.

Daniel Riseman, founder of Riseman Educational Consulting in Irvington, New York, has been counseling students and working with families for 16 years.