Push your French with the DEUF program Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The school system there is hard to get used to. The international student's office isn't that helpful and they don't seem to know what they're doing most of the time. Classes can change times and classrooms on you 5 minutes before you're supposed to start class (I almost missed a final because of this). The teachers don't really seem to care all that much (this can be a good or a bad thing--no homework or tests [except for a final that counts for your entire class grade]) and they're not all that competent. Administration takes FOREVER to get anything done and they don't always get it right. No housing on campus, you can either go through the school to find an apartment or look yourself (I'd recommend going through the school, even though it's ridiculously expensive). If you have a lot of patience, work well with change, and are very independent you could adapt to this program.

On-site administration of your program

If you are considering this program, I HIGHLY recommend the DEUF program as opposed to the SELF one. I was in SELF and my French didn't improve at all. My friend, on the other hand, was in the DEUF program and he became fluent in the language within the first month of classes. He assured me that there were beginners in the DEUF program, so don't let the fact that the program is all in French intimidate you (they grade you easier than they do the regular students). You'll still have to put up with the horrible administration, but at least you'll be fluent in the language.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Housing can be really expensive! I got an apartment really close to the school that was nice, but overpriced. I had to pay 530E a month for rent PLUS UTILITIES. Not to mention that I had to buy my own microwave. Not a lot of nightlife around the campus but the metro was across the street so I had an easy way to get around the city (just be aware that the metro shuts down at midnight).

The food was AMAZING, if a little expensive. Try to avoid the touristy places (except for Bananas in Vieux Lyon--they have the most amazing crepes ever). I recommend going to the Farmer's Market on the Saone River on Sundays for fairly cheap fruits, veggies, and other foods.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Believe me when I say that you'll meet some of the most amazing people ever in this program. Everyone in the international students program becomes really close and you'll make friendships that will last a lifetime. If you manage your finances wisely and are a smart traveler, you'll have one of the best experiences of your life in Lyon (minus the education system of course). Even if you can't travel every weekend, you should still try to make it to a few places. You definately won't be sorry.

Lyon is a fairly safe city. Just be aware of your surrounds and use common sense. There are a few areas one should avoid at night, but other than that, I had no problems.

I already knew French going into the program, so I didn't find it that helpful. The classes were pretty much just a review of everything I already knew. You'll improve your French in everyday life because you'll hear it around you all the time, not because of the class. The only real positive thing was that my confidence in the language improved drastically.