Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Paris changed my life. Past Review

By (Accounting, Trinity University) for

IES Abroad: Paris - French Studies

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
The language part was challenging. It's a wonderful program for the students with a strong French background. Classes are all in French, so I struggled a little but I really improved a lot.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

My grades weren't that good, part of the reason was because of my language level. It would be better if there were some easier classes for the students who hadn't taken French for very long.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I think there should be some easier classes.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

IES has a very good housing system. I'm very happy with my host family.

* Food:

Food was amazing!

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Trip to Giverny.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Robbery is common in a big city like Paris. One needs to be careful with all the belongings, and not to talk too loud in the public.

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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? none

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
Language acquisition improvement?

I practiced French with my host family.

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

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

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Housing
* What could be improved?
  • It will be better if there are classes with different language level.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Be open minded!