Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

IES Abroad French Studies - Paris Past Review

By (Communication, Journalism and Related Programs, French, University of Iowa) - abroad from 09/01/2014 to 12/18/2014 with

IES Abroad: Paris - French Studies

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My ability to speak and comprehend the French language improved greatly from the beginning to the end of the program. I noticed a greater confidence in myself as a traveler and also as an individual.

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

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* 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? No

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? $300
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Go grocery shopping and don't be afraid to cook food/lunches at your home stay.

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

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
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? No matter what, just put the effort forth to speak in French. Live with a host family and really try to interact with them. Join a club or a sport and ask questions.

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?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Location
  • Courses/Professors
  • Housing Placement
* What could be improved?
  • Organization/Scheduling
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I would've known more everyday commonly used phrases, in order to make initial interactions flow more easily.

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!