Twelve Years Later, I Still Speak of Aix with a Smile. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

If you ever hear the joke "AUCP equals Aix-en-Vacances", don't take it seriously. I worked harder at AUCP than I had my first two years of college. But, it was worth every late night, every correction from my host father, every initial "D" I got from Mr. Cosse (who is The Boss; what a wonderful prof!) and every word that I looked up in the very large French-English dictionary that I was required to lug in my suitcase! Because, I went from a shaky low-Intermediate French speaker to winning arguments with my host brother and dreaming in French. (BTW, AUCP now has large dictionaries that you can use; so a smaller one for your home will suffice!) Yes, that was a "D": you are graded in the French system, which is tougher than the U.S's. But, again, that is why I can now write a clear French essay on my own, and well, and my French in-laws understand me. Now, on to more pleasant topics: my host family, with whom you speak only French, was the best part of the program. Do take the housing form you are asked to fill out very seriously, and you will be rewarded. I am still in touch with "ma famille d'accueille" after 12 years. I was at their daughter's wedding and they have now met my daughter. A quick note: go to your Community Service. It was truly unique to see how the French view this type of service, as opposed to Americans. As for French Cultural Patterns, well, that is an experience that you will just have to go to Aix to have for yourself. Let's just say, you may just find yourself fluent in two new languages!

On-site administration of your program

The staff and professors were knowledgeable and encouraging about Aix, and ensured that we would be completely immersed and never bored. Sandrine is amazing. She was in charge of setting up our Community Service component, and knew well where to place people based on their linguistic capabilities.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I was treated as a member of my host family's family, right down to being asked to help hang the laundry!

yum! eat from the local markets! find really good tapenade!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The picnic at the base of the St. Victoire was amazing. Oh, and the cooking classes with Bruno Ungaro---do them! Yum!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Aix is a very safe city, as long as you abide by the guidelines that the program provides about short skirts and blonde hair!

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

Host family. Language partner. Other students (French Language Pledge!). Any shopkeeper or man/woman at the outdoor market: most of them speak little to English. You will find waiters/hosts switching to English at some of the more touristy restaurants; but, just be persistent.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family