Paris... Unforgettable! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The courses offered from the Catholic Institute of Paris were very helpful indeed to practice french every day, for grammar and civilization purposes. Since the class ratios were small the feedback and resources teachers gave were very adequate and useful. The program also contributed to this by the assesments and tests taken at the beginning and end of the semester, which might not be easy, but they are worth your time. In terms of academic rigor, classes were not as intense and the workload is not crazy, just appropriate so that you can enjoy an academic and personal experience at the same time. You will have the best of both worlds.

On-site administration of your program

Administration in Central College was great! It really made the transition into Paris so much more relaxed and pleasant. We didn't have to worry about paying rent once we were there or how to start about getting a phone or a bank account. The only thing that I would change, would be taking the extracurricular activities you want to do, in your own hands. You should look into that well before going so that once you get there you already know what you want and how to get it.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Housing was probably one of the hardest things to adjust to. Paris, France is definitively not the United States. Commodities like having your own bathroom in a comfortable room will definitively not be present once you are there. Europeans have a different life style where everything will be smaller and older so just get used to that fact.

It is France, so food is really good when you go outside and eat. But for the most part I had to cook my dinners because of where I lived so it got challenging at times.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

There are so many different aspects that can define integration into a local culture. And everyone will have their own experiences in their own way. In my case I integrated just fine and I felt identified with some aspects of society because I could relate to them.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I personally did not have any issues with health while abroad but I had a number of friends who did and everything went well for them for the most part. The administration really helped them when they needed it the most.

I feel that Paris was a very safe city in general as long as you take the necessary precautions and be prudent. Always listen to the precautions that the program gives you.

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

Paris is a very expensive city, you have to carefully manage your budget while you are there. Nothing is comparable to the prices in the united states but if you know where to look and you take your time you can find amazing offers for free and with really good student discounts!

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• Dorm

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• Local Students
• International Students

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The Academic or Linguist