Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Exactly what I was looking for Past Review

By (Political Science, Global Studies, French, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities) - abroad from 09/04/2013 to 05/10/2014 with

IES Abroad: Nantes - French Language Immersion & Area Studies

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I can now truthfully say I speak French. I have a much deeper understanding of French culture. My worldview has widened. I am more confident abroad, and in new situations in general. I'm more comfortable with not knowing something and asking others to explain it. That's only the tip of the iceberg: it was totally worthwhile.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classes at the IES Center are easier and more tailored to American students. If you would like, it is also possible to take classes at the Université de Nantes.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

IES Nantes only offers homestays--because they have a network of fantastic host families. I had a wonderful experience with my host family. We're still in touch, and I'm looking forward to visiting them when I can.

* Food:

This is in part dependent on how much your host parent like to cook (mine didn't). Students are responsible for about half of their meals, and the IES kitchen facilities are small and rather limited, so that can be a little challenging.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I made a significant effort to get involved, joining a student band and a community band. This was challenging, but extremely rewarding. It's entirely possible to go abroad, not integrate with the local culture, and have a great time, but there are plenty of options (music, sports, religious groups, etc.) for those who do, and it's absolutely worth it.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The healthcare system in France is inexpensive and easy to use--the hardest part for me was calling to make an appointment. I didn't ask the IES staff for help, but I know they would have willingly helped had I needed it.

* Safety:

Nantes is a very safe city. I came home late from music rehearsal on a regular basis and never felt threatened. Common sense should allow students to avoid most problems.

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)

I managed to live quite cheaply, but I was also teaching some English lessons and not going out to the bars every weekend.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $50-60 if I wasn't traveling.
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? IES Nantes offers students a number of opportunities to make money while in France, from teaching English lessons to working in the IES Center library. There are also many free museums or other cultural events, so you don't have to spend money to have fun.

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

IES Nantes is great about encouraging students to use French. English is not to be spoken in the IES Center, and all classes are in French. This, however, does not stop students from communicating mostly in "franglais".

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? 7th semester college-level French (upper division literature classes)
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? Before going abroad, try to find a conversation group. When you go abroad, make a promise to yourself to branch out and not spend all your time with other Americans. Your host family and community involvement are great ways to do this. Doing this will push you to become better at and more comfortable with French (or any foreign language, for that matter).

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
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 10+

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Homestay
  • Opportunities for community involvement
  • Courses
* What could be improved?
  • Other students don't commit to speaking French
  • Kitchen facilities fairly minimal
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Don't bring sundresses. It's not warm enough in Nantes to wear them.

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!