Strasbourg: not actually in the middle of nowhere Past Review

By (French Language and Literature., Fordham University) - abroad from 01/03/2013 to 05/17/2013 with

Syracuse University: Strasbourg - Syracuse University in Strasbourg

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about French idioms and culture, and it was definitely worthwhile.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The program was really challenging academically and was geared towards international relations majors.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The director is nice, but a little overbearing.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived with a host family which definitely improved my French, but the house was far away from the city.

* Food:

French food is excellent.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Never used the health care.

* Safety:

I never felt threatened or in danger.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

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? 50 euro
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Research all possible flight options before booking, and book well in advance.

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? Fluent
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Fluent
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? 3000 level
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? Talk to your host family. It's the best way to practice and learn new things.

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? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The city
  • Local culture
  • Food
* What could be improved?
  • The facilities
  • Did not meet local students
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? The accessibility of the closest Ryanair base.

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!