My time in Paris was an amazing, enriching, and unforgettable experience! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The workload at IES is relatively low, and the grading system is based on the French scale of 1-20 (but curved--actual French university grades are typically very low and that was not the case at IES, at least for me.) I enjoyed most of my classes, and was impressed with the caliber of professors. The teaching methods were really very similar to my US French courses, in most cases. I did not feel particularly challenged by my IES courses.

On-site administration of your program

The program's strengths were its location in the 14th arrondissement of Paris and the staff. The staff members were extremely helpful and made themselves available whenever the students needed them. My expectations were met by their efforts--I would have liked more enforcement of the "French only" rule, which was not enforced hardly at all, but that was my only complaint with the staff.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Living with a host family was an amazing decision. I lived in a very safe neighborhood, even though it was about 45 minutes away from class and nightlife, via metro. I felt very safe walking home from my metro station, even very late at night. I did not need to buy any items to settle in, and my family was extremely accommodating. I would say that I was treated between a family member and as a guest. My host family was the reason my French improved, and I absolutely loved the experience of living with them.

My host mom's cooking was great. I packed a lot of my lunches for during the day, but food can be found on some of the great little places on Rue Daguerre for about 4 euros.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We went on two field trips that were very well organized, one to Chantilly and one to Fontainebleau/Vaux-le-Vicomte, two chateaux in the Paris region. I thoroughly enjoyed both. I think it would have been better if the program did more cultural outings.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I think the safety advice I have is just to be aware and not to travel places alone if you can avoid it. I went to the doctor once, and my program was incredible helpful in showing me where the office was, getting me in to see him, and explaining the reimbursement procedures.

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

I used French every day in interactions with Parisians, but most students in my program (even though they weren't supposed to), spoke English. In order to practice French, I recommend living with a host family, where you would be required to speak French.

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• Host Family

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• Host Family

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• Americans