Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

A Challenging but Meaningful Experience Past Review

By (French Language and Literature, Fordham University) - abroad from 09/09/2012 to 12/19/2012 with

CUPA: Paris - Study Abroad in Paris

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I experienced the differences between the French and American university systems. Although I did not grow to love the French system, it did make me appreciate my home university and the American system so much more.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* 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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

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

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
How many hours per day did you use the language?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Language immersion
  • Academic support
  • Encouraged independence
* What could be improved?
  • Clarified differences between French & American university systems
  • Shorter orientation program
  • Offered more ways to integrate with French students
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish that the program told students more about what to expect with the French university system before going abroad & selecting the program, as opposed to telling us everything during orientation.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!