Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

The Experience of a Lifetime Past Review

By (Communication Arts, Linfield College) - abroad from 08/24/2015 to 12/20/2015 with

France Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained confidence, independence, and an appreciation for a new culture. I would say it was worthwhile because AUCP was so committed to their goals of immersion that we were forced to get out of our comfort zone and reap all the benefits of study abroad.

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.

The expectations of this program are intense! The professors are excellent instructors and hold students to high expectations. At times it was difficult to be able to follow all the regulations because there was little opportunity for emotional support. Academically, however, it is a rigorous program with a focus on improvement and understanding.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration helps to integrate and really wants the students to fully immerse. However, the lack of emotional support was difficult at times. There is not quite the right balance between independence and support.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The host family living situations were great! Transportation is only a little questionable depending on where the home is.

* Food:

Many meals are provided by the host family.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

It was difficult being in a program of only Americans--little, true integration was made, but the efforts were there.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Personally I never had an issue with my health, but there were instructions given on seeking medical advice and care.

* Safety:

Using good judgment is important anywhere you go. I felt quite safe in Aix as long as I was with other people at night.

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)

Some meals are required to be purchased by the students. Therefore the cost of living really depended on what each student wanted to spend.

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
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? College Level 302
How many hours per day did you use the language? 10+
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Speak it with each other! It really deters the progress if students resort to speaking English with each other. It is so tempting and easy, but if your goal is to improve the language, you have to.

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

  • 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?
  • Academic support from professors
  • Location, Aix-en-Provence
  • Opportinities for immersion
* What could be improved?
  • Emotional Support
  • More convenient/local living siutations
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? You have to really be prepared to fight in order to gain all the benefits of this programs. They have a lot of expectations and it can be overwhelming, but it is important to keep up with the work and remain dedicated for the few months that are available.

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!