Paris: to fall in love with French life and never want to come back! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The educational system was exactly what I expected. I learned a lot and was academically challenged, however I was not overly studying and failing to experience studying abroad. The teachers were mostly from the US and understood the cultural differences between American students and international ones. Extremely good experience with American Business School.

On-site administration of your program

This was by far the best experience of my life. Everyone with ISA was extremely helpful, and was available to help me through the transition. I felt that the ISA staff almost became like family, as they were a strong support system when my own family seemed so far away. They had an incredibly positive energy and were extremely kind. They assisted with topics such as cultural shock, what to expect especially during the metro strikes in Paris, and how to make sure you do not get your stuff stolen. Overall, they helped me increase my safety and were accessible at what seemed all hours of the day. On the train (SNCF), I accidentally printed the wrong receipt as the whole boarding pass was in french. On the train, I got charged twice for the same train ride. One of the ISA staff members helped me get reimbursed and was extremely helpful and kind during the whole stressful process of filling paperwork in a foreign language.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The safety was as good as real Parisian life can get. Aesthetically, it was true to french life, a bit under american standards but still beautiful. I did not need to buy any items at all, as ISA took care of it all. I loved my roommates, I have never gotten along with people so well. Proximity to class couldn't be closer, I only was about 2 blocks from campus.

It was hard being vegetarian, but I fell in love with french food. ISA staff helped us find restaurants that fulfilled dietary needs.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Going through Loire Valley and wine tasting with the program was by far the best experience of my life. ISA staff was incredibly nice and knowledgable about wine, local culture, and chateaus. I also loved Normandy. I cannot even fathom missing one of these group ISA trips, as they were even better than the trips I did with my friends. Seeing Mont Saint Michele was incredible, and being with such positive and kind people only made the experience better.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

One thing that I did that was a little dangerous was walking home on the first metro after staying up late at clubs. I would recommend to any girl especially to just pay the cab fare without thinking. I am lucky to be safe and would never walk home alone again.

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

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• Apartment

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• Americans