Aix- you are my sunshine Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I go to a big school, so the 6-15 people per class at IAU was not my style. I enjoyed 2/4 of my classes- french and intercultural management. The other ones were pointless and you have little information on what your actual grade is until the end of the semester. However, you don't study abroad for what you'll learn at the school there, you study abroad for what you'll learn from experiencing a new culture and the world around you.

On-site administration of your program

Nancy & Vivienne are your study abroad angels. Literally ANY problem I had (and you will have them) from issues with my phone to losing my keys/camera, they were so happy to help. They get it done as soon as you ask them and will go with you to help translate/etc. My light bulb went out one day, so I messaged Nancy to see how to get it fixed & she came over asap, got a ladder and a new light bulb and changed it for me. They're seriously the best.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My only complaint is that we didn't have an oven. (If you're reading this, maybe invest in some toaster ovens or something for the future?) Other than that, the roommate matching was on point and it's a great place for 2 people. I even got my own room and all the dishes and kitchen supplies are provided. Put apartment as your first choice, those are the nicest and where we'd congregate to hang out.

My advice- eat out for lunch and sometimes breakfast. Dinner is too expensive so you'll only do it a couple times (go to the Maison de Fondue though for cheese fondue!) The best thing you'll find in Aix is picnic food: fresh baguettes, cheese tartare, and tapendade are to die for. The everyday market is fabulous, too! I also recommend Mana Espresso :) If you're trying to not get fat (it's hard) cook healthy meals in Aix and when you travel on the weekends don't hold back! Make sure you try the food each city is known for and it's sure to be delicious and really bad for you.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

At IAU, it's kind of hard to make French/international friends because you'll take classes with all Americans. However, the CEA kids that went to SUFLE had french/international friends and I'd hang out with them sometimes. We even had a "friendsgiving" where we introduced all the international kids to Thanksgiving for the first time!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't have any problems, but if I did I'm sure Vivienne & Nancy would've helped!

I am very thankful for this aspect about Aix. I seriously think it's the safest place I've ever lived in! People would always come up to me to let me know my bag was open or if I left my purse sitting out in the open. I never once felt unsafe.

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

I was prepared for traveling to a new city every weekend, so I budgeted correctly. I probably spent about $4,500 total in expenses for the whole semester. Shop at the market/cook at home like I said above and it's not too bad.

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

Whether it's ordering at a bakery or being asked for directions in french, you're always trying not to be found out that your native language is english. I spoke french in class and in stores, but english with all my friends. There are a lot of opportunities to have dinner with French natives, which helps a lot and all of the extra paid for excursions are in French.

Select all that apply

• Apartment

Select all that apply

• Local Students
• Americans

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• Americans

• The people in the program
• Nancy & Vivienne
• Program events

• Ovens in the apartment
• laundry facilities

The Avid Adventurer