Past Review
By Shannon M (Economics and Political Science, Rice University) for
API (Academic Programs International): Grenoble - Université des Alpes
My study abroad experience was very worthwhile, though I did experience a fair degree of homesickness. I believe if I had gotten out more and explored the country/neighboring cities I would have enjoyed the experience much better. I gained several friends, good confidence in my French abilities, and a greater perspective of American culture. I recommend it to anyone.
Personal Information
| The term and year this program took place: | Summer 2008 |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The academics for the Grenoble intensive month were challenging but not overwhelming. They did not detract from weekend vacations or night outings, but this does not mean you do not have to put time into the homeworks. You have very few grades over the intensive month so messing up on one assignment can be costly. I would recommend this program to anyone with a fair grip on the french language. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The people who lead the program were friendly, helpful, and focused on improving your language skills with the limited time available. They insisted on speaking French even when searching for a vocab word. I greatly enjoyed our conversations and still think of them fondly. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived in a small dorm for international students, which was great for independence and going out at night but not for speaking french the entire time I was there. I did have French friends but also hung out with Americans and Venezuelans, with whom I spoke English mostly. The dorm has wireless internet in the computer lab but no air conditioning, so bring a fan. The kitchen was perfect for making meals and sitting with friends over dinner. <br /><br /> As I mentioned, the location was great for going out (I had friends in homes that were further away and made getting to town difficult) and gave me the chance to meet a variety of people. I wish I had more exposure to only the French language, though getting to speak English was a relaxing break. The fan is a must with the lack of air conditioning, and the computer lab could get crowded while trying to speak on Skype. |
| * Food: |
The cafeteria was great considering how many people it had to feed. You got to choose certain side dishes and the main course was always tasty. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
The pubs nearby were great to see and experience, as well as the cities and sights around Grenoble. People were friendly and I hardly ran into anyone who was rude. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
I felt very safe besides the times when I would walk home alone at night. If you can, walk with a friend back to the dorm or ride public transportation if available. I never had anything happen but I also made sure to never carry too much or give eye contact with strangers. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
No
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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) |
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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | Around 80-100 euros per week depending on the activities and how much I spent on groceries. |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Trains can be expensive if you book too close to your trip, so make sure to visit the ticketing office way in advance. |
Language
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Fluent |
| Language acquisition improvement? |
My grammar skills improved measurably while my vocabulary and comprehension abilities increased rapidly. Writing has never been my forte in foreign languages while speaking remains my strength. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you take classes with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | If you want to spend some time abroad but not too much, if you want to enhance your developed French skills, and if you want a small town feel to do it in, then the intensive month program in Grenoble is the program for you. |
