Nantes, je t'aime! Past Review
By Ima O (French, Trinity University) for
IES Abroad: Nantes - French Language Immersion & Area Studies
I loved studying in Nantes. My host family was wonderful and I met some interesting people both in the city and in the program itself. My speaking ability improved greatly, which was my main purpose in studying abroad.
Personal Information
| If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: | Universite de Nantes |
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The grading system was not in the favor of American students. Since the French grading system is out of 20, one number in their system corresponds to an entire range of grades in the American. One number difference in the French system means a letter difference in the American system. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The director of the Nantes program was very dedicated to helping students and matching them with appropriate host families. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I loved my host family. They were extremely helpful in my language learning and they treated me like I was a member of the family. We still keep in contact. |
| * Food: |
I loved the food there. There were more creperies than any other type of restaurant in Nantes but you could find other things if you looked. My host mother cooked amazing meals. I ate better there than I do in the States. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
The program included two or three field trips per semester. Some of the time was guided but there was enough time to explore the area individually. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Nantes is a fairly safe city. I walked home alone some nights and never had any problems. However, just like in any city, you still have to be aware and be careful. I've heard of some students getting mugged. It's rare but it happens. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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) |
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Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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| Language acquisition improvement? |
IES Nantes is a French-only program. All students are required to speak French all the time at the center and with their host families. Once a week there is a conversation club held at the center for French students to come practice their English and the American students practice their French. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | This program is geared towards students who take academics seriously but it still leaves plenty of time and ample opportunity to travel. |
