<p>If you have a passion for study in the Dominican Republic and have that opportunity (which you may never have again), go for it! It will only make you a more unique candidate for admission. There are many colleges where you can have a good experience but cultural immersion during high school, especially living with a host family or among native students at a boarding school, is a once in a lifetime opportunity. My kids wouldn’t trade their high school exchange years for anything!</p>