I am probably one of the biggest proponents of study abroad! I spent 10.5 months in Germany as a Rotary Youth Exchange Student just after graduating high school (was still within the age limits) as well as studying archaeology at University College, Cork, Ireland for a semester. You learn a lot about a different culture, meet great people (on whose couches you can crash when you are in the area!), learn a lot about yourself, etc. The list is endless on what you get out of it!!
It is definitely worth the expense - and the extra credits!
I also hear that State has a really good study abroad program.
Sarah