France: An Opportunity I'm glad I Took Advantage of Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload was not technically as much as I was used to in the United States, but that's only because the French educational system expects students to be accountable for their own learning and studying for their exams from the time courses begin. Exam grades are often the entirety of student grades in France. Homework is a rarity. Another very big difference between the two systems is that, in France, most professors lecture, and courses are not very interactive. Students are expected not to share opinions in class or in writing pieces.

On-site administration of your program

I found my program's staff to be extremely helpful. There were about seventy students total, but individual attention was always provided. They were really great about preparing us for culture shock and helping us with everything from academic to personal difficulties. My expectations were certainly met.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was offered a choice between an apartment, dorm, or host family, and I chose host family because I knew it would give me the best opportunity to improve upon my language skills. I also elected to live with someone who spoke no English for the same reason. My neighborhood was very safe. It wasn't the most gorgeous area in Paris, but it was nice. I did not need to buy any items to settle in. Bedding was provided, and cookware was available for use. I was treated like family by my host family.

I thought that the food was fantastic. My only complaint was that it was often expensive if you didn't know where to go. I'd recommend that future students don't eat in areas that are big for tourism. There are also very low-priced student cafeterias called CROUS scattered across the city that I'd suggest visiting. Place Monge and Le Marais have great food for relatively low prices, as well.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

My program arranged a trip to the south of France in Aix-en-Provence that was fantastic.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Despite being a large city, Paris was fairly safe overall. I never had any issues. Healthcare was easily accessible. Pharmacies are different in that you report your symptoms to a pharmacist who recommends drugs to you. There weren't any prevalent health issues, but there were two rather unpleasant viruses circulating that we do not have in the U.S., one of which I had the misfortune of contracting. I did not need any vaccines specifically for this program.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

All of my classes were in French, and my host family only spoke French, so I was practicing language fairly frequently. I also had a few French friends I'd speak with and friends from other countries that I would communicate in French with in addition to everyday communication at stores and such. So, yes, I did need to use the host country language in everyday interactions. Most people knew some English, but very often it was minimal, and I did know several people who knew none.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family

• language exposure
• culture
• food

• I honestly think it was wonderful.