Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Sweet Briar in Paris. Sweet. Past Review

By (International Relations And Global Studies, Brandeis University) - abroad from 01/14/2013 to 05/31/2013 with

France Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I had been abroad for a semester before in a different country, but this was a completely different experience for me. I learned a lot about myself; my tendencies and a lot deeper about my personality. I definitely learned how to get where I want to be, stand for myself, open myself up to making friends with Parisians, and take chances. It was one of the most incredible times of my life and I definitely plan on going back for grad school.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Professors were EXCELLENT.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

A little disorganized but I loved the staff

* 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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? ~$150
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Buy groceries and make your own food!

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? Advanced
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Fluent
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? French 104
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? It may not be easy for everyone, but make an effort to make French friends! That's the best way to improve your French.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
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?
  • The professors
  • The staff
* What could be improved?
  • The organization of the program
  • Better activities and trips
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? That there are small job opportunities open to students on the program

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!