Baguettes and Business on the Beach Past Review

By (Business, Pacific Lutheran University) - abroad from 08/23/2015 to 12/19/2015 with

IES Abroad: Nice - Business, Sustainability & Immigration

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned about French language and culture and how I want to interact with the world as a global citizen.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The program directors were absolutely incredible.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I loved my host family experience.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

It was the most incredible four months of my life. It changed my worldview and helped me to grow as an individual.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $100
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Make a budget and stick with it!

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

I used French everyday with my host family, however I spoke English with most of my friends.

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? French 302
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? If they really want to become fluent, attend a French-speaking university.

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
  • International Students
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?
  • Family
  • Friends
  • Food
* What could be improved?
  • Courses
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Live your youth to 150%.