Studying Abroad?

Hi
I actually just got back from a short term program (Salamanca, Spain) that was for the month of June. I am also heading out to Italy at the end of this month for a semester long program in Florence, Italy. From what I have seen so far, it is definitely worth it! I am guessing that chances of getting in and application processes vary from college to college and program to program, but as long as you have a decent GPA you are probably good to go (a study abroad adviser should be able to give you more accurate information for your program/ college).
On to the cost thing, yes, they are a bit costly. However, if you compare what is included in the cost and then think about the costs to simply travel to that country for the same length of time on your own minus the school credits you would be receiving then generally (unless you really like couch surfing, but even still) it is well worth it even just from a financial standpoint! Some programs include airfare, some don't, etc. Go over programs with an adviser and just see what they say. (If airfare isn't included think about getting an ISIC card and use STAtravel.com for some nice airfare discounts...that's what I have been using)
On the "is it worth it?" question, though I've said it several times, yes, I believe it is definitely worth doing! If you don't want to go long term semester or year, there are always summer programs. I met some amazing people on my trip to Spain! By virtue of the type of program (intensive Spanish courses) we were not around many Spaniards, but I met people from Belgium, Turkey, Poland, Canada, France, Russia, Australia (to be fair, I met them while in a hostel after the program ended). I also met a bunch of people from other states within the US: California, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Missouri, Georgia, and the others in my group from Tennessee because we didn't know each other before the program. I don't know if clubbing is your thing, but the night life in Spain was amazing and I am guessing that the nightlife in other parts of Europe would be similarly as awesome Not to mention the art and history in a country so old! Getting to walk to school every day and being surrounded by all of the history and beauty was just amazing! I don't know if this actually answered your questions or not but I am always happy to talk about it more if you need answers or just want to talk
The first thing I'd recommend you do though is find a study abroad adviser who can help you out, it is their job and every school should have one if they have a study abroad program