Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I spent 10 weeks studying the French language at France Langue in Paris. The school was a bit divided considering that it was in 3 different buildings in the same area of town. The teachers and students changed weekly, which made it difficult to adjust. The lessons were appropriate and I think I learned a fair amount. Not as much as I was expecting, and definitely not as much as I think I should have learned considering the price paid for this program. But I believe that there was a proper division in oral/written/grammar lessons.

On-site administration of your program

I am not sure which program this question is referring to. NRCSA. I was disappointed at times with their lack of attentiveness and aid, as well as their placement into a family. France Langue. I was satisfied with the courses and administration.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The first 4 weeks I lived with a Parisien family in the 16th, which was arranged by NRCSA. It was very close to the school and an amazing flat. My host mother was also a wonderful cook. She provided plenty of information on Paris, but her attitude in general was very disagreeable. I did not enjoy going back to the flat because of her many times. In the end, we had a disagreement and I decided that I did not want to be miserable for my entire trip, so I moved to a student residence. France Langue arranged my last-minute change of residence to a student residence in the Latin Quartier (5th). The location was great with many things to do, although it was at least 45 minutes by metro to the school. Although the location was great, the state of the residence was very very disagreeable. It was dirty, with cockroaches, no heating/AC system, and public toilettes and showers. I had to make all of my meals while living there the remaining 6 weeks. It was sufficient, but not for the amount I paid for it. Not at all. There was also no WIFI at this student residence, and the laundry facility was extremely dirty.

The food that my host mother provided during my first 4 weeks was very good. Very different cuisine than what I would eat in the United States, but it was an amazing experience. Preparing meals by myself when I moved into the student residence was difficult on the other hand because even though the rooms had individual refrigerators and sinks, there was only a microwave provided on the floor of the residence, and that was it. In the end though, preparing food, like sandwiches, is much easier, and cheaper than eating out. Considering that it is Paris and the prices are very high.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I did a lot of exploring on my own and discovered many different areas of inner Paris (zones 1 & 2). I really do believe it is one of the best cities in the world. There are many cultural activities that one can do alone, or with a group. The school arranged several and I took a trip to the coast of France to visit several towns, as well as Le Mont Saint Michel. Which was spectacular and definitely worth the time and money. Paris also has a great night-life that I encourage all students to take advantage of.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Student health issues were never really addressed through France Langue. Through NRCSA I bought health insurance, and I was informed of all of the aspects of the coverage. I did not have any health issues during my 10 week stay in Paris, hence I do not have much to comment on this. Safety is always an issue in large cities. Especially in foreign ones where people speak a different language and there are several cultural differences. As a woman of 20 years old, I would say that the safety-issue increases. It is very common for men to approach you in the street or in the metro, but the number one tip I can give is to not make eye contact with people unless you plan on sparking a conversation. Never go out at night alone if you can help it, and if not, stay in well-lit areas. Lastly, do not be afraid to let people know when you are uncomfortable. Many cultural differences may lead to a feeling of people "being in your bubble". Such as the French bisous [kisses on the cheek] which is not practiced in the United States.

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

I think I gained more confidence in speaking French during my program at France Langue. I refreshed my memory on many French topics and learned a fair amount as well.