Study Abroad in France opened my eyes to the culture and art history in Europe Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Our professor did a good job of lecturing and informing us on site and asking us to think about the implications of certain situations. I enjoyed the opportunity to be out and exploring the country and learning at the same time as apposed to having to sit in a lecture classroom.

On-site administration of your program

Our host family in the city of Rennes was amazing. They were friendly and helpful and interested in our education and experience. Staying with the host family was a great way to experience the culture in France and I am very grateful for the experience. The head faculty person was helpful and flexible. However I feel that he expected all of us to speak French in our group, but because it was only a capstone class few of us spoke French. It would be helpful to take a class in French basics before going overseas or to inform the faculty in France that the students will most likely not speak French.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Due to the public transport systems we were able to take a short walk to the bus station and travel to most of our events there. Our family was great at making sure we were fed and taken care of. I would advise other students traveling to France that they eat their dinners very late their and to expect this. Therefore it is a good idea to have a snack if you prefer eating early.

La Chope in Rennes is a perfect restaurant and very cheap. Also the little stands in parks and on the streets offer very good and cheap lunch meals.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Rennes was a great way to experience the true laid back lifestyle of France. I would advise all programs that go to France to visit another city other than just Paris. While Paris was beautiful with all the sites it was busy and touristy. In order to truly grasp the lifestyle its a good idea to stay in a smaller area too. The Eiffel Tower was amazing aswell as Mont St Michelle and San Malo, two visits I reccomend to other groups.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

We were lucky to not have any health issues. It is important to stick together and head count in subways due to the busy and crowded nature of them. Also it is important to ride a train or someother system directly to your hotel/hostel. We had to haul our luggage through 4 metros and train areas which was difficult and stressful. It would be a good idea to find a faster way to transport between host areas.

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

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• Hostel
• Host Family

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• Host Family
• Americans