I wish I lived in Montreal! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Champlain Abroad in Montreal is a challenging academic environment that doesn't skimp on the homework. Unlike most other study abroad programs, where academics take a backseat to the foreign experience, Champlain du Montreal challenges students to maintain their professionalism and academic rigor. Many of the classes meet once a week for 3 hours and are taught by some of the most intelligent professors I've ever met. Some of the best classes include: Writing the City, which allows students to leave the classroom in search of interesting foreign subject matter for stories, reviews, and interview pieces. Canada Through the Fine Arts, which focuses on the various types of art in Canada from architecture to film to food and everything in-between. This class is taught twice a week and on one of the days you get to go on a field trip to a museum, restaurant/cafe, or art exhibit. Canadian American Relations, taught by a professor who knows literally everything about Canada, is a fascinating class that explores the relationship history of Canada and America. This class favors the Canadian perspective, and may make you want to flee your American roots for Canada. The only downside to some of the academics at Champlain du Montreal is the amount of lecturing. Coming from a college that is much more hands on, I found myself having difficulty maintaining focus on the class for more than an hour. I also enrolled in a Beginners French class through Champlain du Montreal, but dropped only two weeks in because the class is a language immersion course. I felt like I was drowning in this sink or swim class.

On-site administration of your program

Genevieve, Wesnide, and Shona were all very accessible faculty leaders. I felt comfortable going to Wesnide about nearly everything. Genvieve was more helpful in academic advising and coming up with cool ideas for weekend events. I think with Wesnide being gone now, it is very important that someone living in the halls, like she did, is available to students more than just an RA.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The apartments were in a prime location right in the heart of art, food, shopping, and culture in Montreal. I brought my own bedding and cookware, though a lot of cookware is provided in the apartments already.

Food is up to you in Montreal. If you prefer to cook, there are two reasonably priced grocery stores within a five minute walk of the apartments. The best thing to do (maybe not for your pocket, but for your soul) is to explore all of the cultural neighborhoods around Montreal. Chinatown Vietnamese pho Jewish delis (try a Montreal style bagel!) Indie cafes in Mile End Genuine Indian and African restaurants Greek diners Little Italy and their amazing farmer's market Classic French cuisine Cheap eats along Saint Laurent Canadian poutine Crepes Smoked meat at Schwartz's Canadian beer is stellar Vegetarian buffets like Commensal SUSHI!!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Hockey, improv, Quebec City, Ottawa, apple-picking, laser tag, trips to the movie theater, exploring old Montreal, taking the Metro, riding around Montreal with the director of communications for the Montreal Police Dept, going to a million different restaurants.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I never felt unsafe in Montreal, even walking alone at night as a female, I wasn't concerned.

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

Select all that apply

• Apartment

Select all that apply

• Americans

• Endless opportunities for exploration
• a foreign experience for a student budget close to home
• cultural/language cushion: French influence wasn't overwhelming

• lecture-based classes
• improve classes for non-gaming students
• more field-trips (maybe one to Toronto?)