France, a comforting home away from home. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Since I was in a program specifically designed for international students taking French as a foreign language, I found the workload to be heavy at times, but on the whole completely reasonable. I also took a few courses at the university (not just with the CIEF within the university) and even those courses seemed to have a fair work load. Teaching methods paralleled those in the U.S., although grades did not. In France, since everything is out of 20, it was a little difficult to wrap my head around, as I didn't know what what would convert to in the letter grade system. However, all my classes taken at the CIEF were more than enjoyable, and the teachers were amazing.

On-site administration of your program

While I was in France, I was largely left to my own devices to figure things out. While I did have contacts within France and back in the States, they were largely for emergency purposes and it was left up to me to figure things out. However, the program offered teachers who were more than knowledgeable in their teaching subject, but also if you had a question about tourism, or simply living in France. My expectations were met.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host family situation was ideal, I am very lucky! They lived in a safe neighborhood in Dijon, in a small apartment complex next to a large park. Since the university and Centre Ville was within 30 minutes walking distance, I always opted to walk instead of taking the bus system (even though the bus system was easy to figure out). I didn't need to buy any items to settle. I truly felt like a member of the family at my host family's house, and still have remained in contact with them now that I have left. They are people that I truly miss.

Be warned, French food is amazing... yet rich! Since I largely live off of yogurt and fruit in the States, adjusting myself to eating rich meals on a regular basis was a little tough... although clearly not impossible!! The quality of food in France is excellent. I would highly recommend going a wine tasting (there is a good place in Beaune "Patriarche & Fils", that is 10 E for 15 wines), a crêperie, and (as cliché as this is) a café for a café au lait, or just a regular coffee.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Besides the fact that the CIEF program is just wonderful, I did attend one excersion organized by the CIEF.... which was just as wonderful. I went with a group of friends, and it was led by a teacher who is known and love in the program. While I didn't pay for the excersion (through a deal with my university), the trips were reasonably priced, as you pay a small fee for a weekend trip via bus and hotels. You did have to pay your own meals etc, but on the whole, it was a memorable weekend on the cheap! Dijon itself is a cool city, although smaller than Paris, and does give you a chance to connect with the place a little bit more. The entire experience was memorable, and I'd do it over and over in a heartbeat.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

This relates back to "left to your own devices" a bit. While there was a safety net set in place for students who fell ill, where uncomfortable in their lives in Dijon etc, it was still up to you to go in and talk to someone. Safety lectures were given at the beginning of the year... but common sense points like not walking around the city at 3am, or taking packages from strangers. I never personally had a problem with health while I was in the country, nor did I have to get any vaccines. However, according to friends who became ill, the pharmacies and doctors visits were no different than the ones in the States.

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

I almost never spoke English when I was in France. The CIEF courses encouraged the students 100% to speak ONLY in French (at least within classroom walls). I spoke French with my host family, teachers, and my friends (since the friends I made were international students, and more comfortable in speaking French). Yes, I had to use French in everyday interactions and while the Djionais could speak some English, French is a much easier and faster way to communicate.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family