I wish I didn't waste my money on this exchange. I should have gone to a different school. Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

While they offered a very broad range of courses, their program of studies in the university and high school level differ so much with that of the United States, the classes I was recommended were way out of my level of understanding. In depth literature anaylsis starts in high school so I was in over my head and the book chosen, by Marcel Proust, was extremely difficult. There was no real class for exchange students where French language, phonetics, and grammar was tought. The only "one" offered put us all together and we read newspaper articles, a short story/essay, and kept a journal. There were no regular exams, quizzes, or homework. The entire grade was based upon a final exam which was multiple essays. This, again, was very difficult to prepare for as there was so much material covered. The teachers were very nice and knowledgeable but the Administrative department was very lacking in communication.

On-site administration of your program

I began the application process in December 2008 which had to go through 3 steps: approval from my school, approval from our exchange program, and approval from the exchange school. I received the go ahead from the first two by Feb or March of 2009. I never received any information from the exchange school until a couple weeks before my plane left at the beginning of September. I couldn't go until I got my VISA and I couldn't get my VISA until I got the necessary documents from the school. I almost couldn't go because of their inability to help or respond. I sent numerous emails and never received a response until August. They obviously didn't care about their students and those wanting to study abroad there. I had spoken to a French student who also went to that school and was told that this is how they handle everything even for French students. I should have taken that as a sign and never went.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The dorms were mixed with all students. Some of the buildings were very old, smelly, dirty and out of date. But the new ones were much nicer. The exchange students were not allowed to stay in the new ones. The city is very dark due to the climate conditions and the campus did not have enough outdoor lighting. It was also spread across town which made for long walks back and forth each day. They provided sheets but you had to bring your own cookware, food, etc. I have stayed with a host family before and would have prefered to do the same this time but the school never gave you the option.

I never ate at the school. I always went to the grocery store or out to eat.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I believe there was one day trip arranged at the beginning of the semester but I did not participate.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The city overall was fine, though I didn't feel comfortable walking alone at night. As mentioned before, the lighting is on the poor side. There were many places for people to hide in the dark. I don't remember ever seeing a patroling police car. The front door to my building didn't latch on its own. It wasn't until after I experienced an incident where a man was exposing himself at the top of the path/stairs down to where my building was located that they fixed the lock.

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

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