Studying abroad literally opened my eyes to lifes possibilites. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The reason I choose CEA was because I graduated a year early from high school and wanted to study abroad and most programs only allowed you to go threw your university. CEA was a perfect fit.It was challenging for me because I had not taken any french classes prior to studying abroad. In my situation it was 100% immersion, and it worked! It did feel overwhelming at times but CEA and fellow students were there to help. It was a french university so I wasn't expecting to get special treatment. My professors did speak english but would only speak english with me unless I was really struggling with something, otherwise they would take it slow and walk me threw it in french. The workload was not overbearing, it was what I expected. No matter where you are all teachers are different and have different methods.

On-site administration of your program

Vivianne was and is amazing. She was our go-to for everything and anything. She was always happy to help. She wasn't just the program leader to me, she is a friend. Our CEA group of students felt like a family and she was center of the family.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

CEA arranged all of my housing. I lived in an apartment with another CEA student. Our apartment was three blocks from the school and right around the corner from the the market and many stores and restaurants. Our apartment was completly furnished from bedding,kitchenware,phone,and even a television. It was wonderfully spacious, we even had an upstairs loft.

I was responsible for my food but that was my choice. They had meal options. I enjoyed and was able to buy my own food and dine at many of the wonderful restaurants in the erea. The food was always amazing whether it was a street vendor,cafe or restaurant.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Included in the package with CEA were several excursions. One of my favorites was going to Spain to ride white horses on the coast. We went to local wineries where we would tour and then be treated to dinner and wine. We took day trips to surrounding cities and muesums.We also had overnight trips including an excursion to Monte Carlo. CEA, more specifically Vivianne put together a Thanksgiving dinner for all of us, which was so thoughtful.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I got very sick and Vivianne from CEA came to my apartment contacted a doctor, who actually came to my apartment,he made a house call. I couldn't believe it. She stayed with and made sure I was ok and comfortable. That was not unusual though because Vivianne was a great friend to us all and leader.Throughout my stay I was always in contact with her. When I first arrived she went to the grocery store to help me shop because I dont know what was what. She was always available whether to help with the language barrier, any and all questions, or even to go have a chat.

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

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• Apartment

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• Americans

• I loved it all, but If I had to pick one thing it would be how comfortable and welcomed I felt with CEA.It can be a scary thing to go to a foriegn country where you don't speak the language, don't know anyone and are oceans away from home.From the moment I met everyone in the program I felt at ease and reasy to learn and have fun.

• I had a wonderful experience and honestly can't think of anything I would change. I do wish I could have stayed longer!