Past Review
By Alex L (French Language and Literature., Providence College) for
CIEE: Paris - French And Critical Studies
I have gained a new sense of self. I'm more confidant. I feel I know myself better. I feel very fulfilled. My French has improved, but it could have improved so much more, but I have been enriched in other ways. I have had a life-changing experience.
Personal Information
| If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: | Universite de Paris-7 (Diderot) |
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
| The term and year this program took place: | Spring 2010 |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The courses were a little too light. I only felt challenged a few times. Then again, having taken two classes at the French uni., I can say that those classes, too, did not feel too difficult. Hardly any homework but all the emphasis on the final. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The administration runs smoothly. The main problem is that the students are not willing to be serious about academics and the director has accepted this. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Apartment owned by a French couple and French Canadian roommate. 7e arrondissement. <br /><br /> Great location, warm hosts and interesting roommates. |
| * Food: |
It's France, the food is great (but expensive). Make your own meals. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
It's Paris. Enough said. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Just use common sense. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
No
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Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
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| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Be prepared to spend more money than you expected on Spring Break. Book WELL in advance, and travel with people you like. |
Language
| Language acquisition improvement? |
My classes were taught in French but as soon as class is over, we go back to English. Despite the director's best efforts to make us speak French outside of class, we don't practice French. The program tried to organize conversation partners, which is a great method. However, meeting once or twice doesn't cut it. Only a few people became good friends with their partners. Mine never showed up. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | If you want easy academics and a chance to have lots of fun, choose CFS. If you're very serious about academics, choose the Critical Studies Program. |
