France with AIFS Past Review
By Anne (Cornell College) - abroad from 08/31/2018 to 12/15/2018 with
AIFS: Grenoble - Grenoble School of Management
I love learning and I love traveling; I think I love traveling because it helps me learn-- the world is the best classroom after all. Enrolling in an AIFS program allowed me to live in France for a semester were I was able to immerse myself in courses and cultural experiences to propel me towards my personal, academic, and professional goals, and honestly it was one of the most profound and enriching life experiences I have ever had. I highly encourage students to take full advantage of whichever study abroad opportunities are available to them. I highly recommend applying for an AIFS program because AIFS provides an incredible all inclusive study abroad experience which offers a blissful balance between guidance and navigation through a challenging cross cultural experience as well as promoting an environment for young adults to indulge in their independence. AIFS made it easy for me to move across the Atlantic, take some classes, and to explore who I am. AIFS is renowned for their all inclusive programs which offer a variety courses, scholarships, flight packages, excursions, insurance, etc… BUT one of my favorite features about the AIFS package is the personal contacts who I felt truly cared about me getting the most out of my semester abroad. My admissions representative Erin reached out to me as soon as I started my application, she helped me secure me VISA and scheduled my flights for me. Once in France, my regional director Miranda helped me acclimate into my new host culture, introduced me to my loving host family, and translated for me at the doctors office. It was reassuring to know that there was always someone I could turn to if needed. Even after completing the program, the alumni coordinator Angela provided me with resources to help market my study abroad experience to future employers. AIFS connected me with a group of people who share my passion to learn and to travel and helped me create professional and supportive networks which continue to benefit me more than I ever imagined or expected from applying to international academic program. Thank you to the many people at AIFS who dedicate their time to help me and other students learn from the world.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 1 month - 6 months |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The business school did not live up to their prestigious status. Rather, I was disappointed and bored with the level of academics. It was not intense or rigorous. I sort of felt like my class time, the materials, and the resources provided were a joke. I was seeking a collegiate education, and felt like I was sent back to middle school. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
AIFS- yes. Grenoble Ecole de Management- no. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Loved my host family. My host mom liked to show affection by preparing meals, making my bed, and folding my laundry. It was sweet, she used to make me 'study trays' with chocolates and tea. |
| * Food: |
My host mom was the best cook. We enjoyed traditional french cuisine. I was finely wined and dined every evening. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
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| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
No
I would 100% choose an AIFS program-- however, I would rather enroll in another option, as the Grenoble business school proved to be a disappointment. |
Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
ALL INCLUSIVE PROGRAM OPTIONS = NO NEED TO BUDGET |
| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | $200-500 |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | No |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you take classes with?
Select all that apply |
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| About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? | 0 |
A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | That the school was not going to be engaging. |
Reasons For Studying Abroad
| To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you. |
The NetworkerAn active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume. |
