Adventures Every Day in Nantes! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

French courses grade on a 1-20 scale, and getting a 20 is rare. It was hard to convert our single digit grades into the American grading system. French courses also usually consist of only 1 or 2 tests and a paper or presentation. There are not any assignments in between the exams, so it is necessary to study outside of class without specific work from a professor.

On-site administration of your program

The IES Nantes director and social coordinator and assistants were amazing and knowledgable. The number of students was fairly high (80ish) but the class sizes were small and comfortable. The staff was always available to help with questions. There was a French-only policy in the IES building.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My host family was the best part of the entire experience. They were experienced with hosting Americans and took me in as another son. I learned and practiced my french the most at home with my host family. I also got to hang out with my host brother and his friends for genuine French activities. I had my own room and free range in the kitchen and the rest of the house. The family always included me in daily activities, and the house was a 10 minute tram ride inbetween the IES building/downtown and the University.

The french eat smaller portions so I often didn't feel completely full after a meal, but the portions are not TOO small, just average compared to the large American-sized portions. They also eat very quickly, but spend lots of time during the meal talking.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We spent a weekend with IES visiting the Chateaux of the Loire valley. We got to explore the towns at night and enjoyed another break with all the students together.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I was never nervous about being alone at night. Most host families lived in safer residential neighborhoods, and Nantes is filled with a visible police force. We were warned about safety precautions when there were terrorist threats in Europe.

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

I spoke french with my host family every day, with my professors and other french students, and usually with the Americans students while at IES. In Nantes, very few people will speak English to you, so it is necessary to speak French at all the stores and restaurants.

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• Host Family

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• Host Family

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