Paris exchange- an independent experience Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The grading system is definitely very different and something that takes some time to adjust to.

On-site administration of your program

I found the MICEFA office to be very helpful for the most part, from finding housing to asking questions about most anything. The problems I had were with the exchange university's administration. Practically nothing is done on-line and finding help or answers can be difficult.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The first semester I rented a room in a professor's apartment. I found him through FUSAC. I found it a bit difficult living with a quiet, older man so I found a roommate in one of my university classes. This was a better arrangement because we were the same age. I liked the location of both apartments, one was in the 13th and one in the 15th. I enjoyed being more on the outskirts of the city because things were a bit cheaper and there were less tourists. I was still close to many things and not too far from school. I had to buy a few things- but I found my futon and desk for very cheap on Craig's List Paris.

I love the food in Paris. It's is fantastic and doesn't have to be expensive. I ate more bread products than I do normally. Crepe stands and bakeries are a good option for lunch.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Traveling within Europe can be cheap if you book in advance and use airlines like Ryanair and Easy Jet. I was able to travel to many places. The universities are liberal with vacation time! There's always something to do in Paris, so being bored is a choice.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I got sick a few times but never had too much trouble. If you go to the pharmacy, just describe your systems to the pharmacist and they will tell you what medicine you need. It's pretty cheap in comparison to the US. As for safety, just always be aware of your purse and bags. I know people that were pick pocketed and have heard stories about people being hassled.

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

I lived in two different places, both times with a native French speaker. I think this is the best way to get frequent French practice, and learn the way natives speak. There are websites for finding roommates, such as colocation.fr- but I believe there is a small fee. I did use French every day but I found that many people did speak English. I think it's because Paris is such big, diverse city. When someone hears your accent they may "English you" by answering you in English, but just continue to speak to them in French and they should get the message!

Select all that apply

• Apartment

Select all that apply

• Local Students

Select all that apply

• Local Students