Pau, France: The Time of My Life Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Classes were small and very individualized. It was hard for me to adjust, but I was never verbally pushed or criticized. The professors were patient and understanding. When I finally felt comfortable speaking, I was encouraged and rarely corrected just to keep me talking. The atmosphere was very comfortable and I enjoyed my academics at Pau.

On-site administration of your program

A big strength that I enjoyed was the group activities we partook in as a program. We went on three trips together and a few outings in Pau together. I like how they try to make you feel apart of something when you are so far away from home. They are also there to talk, if you need it, and help out in any way they can.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Living in another country with another family was an adjustment. I enjoyed the family interaction and food I was introduced to. For the most part, the family was nice and tried to be helpful. They did have a habit of saying things that made me feel ashamed of my French language and for awhile I would stop interaction with them. I don't think they meant anything by what they said, but it still was discouraging. I also didn't agree with some of the rules, our room was only allowed to be so warm, which I was cold, but the heating is more expensive in Europe. Overall, I would live with a host family again, because the pros of living with one was more than the negatives. I was only one block away from the University, which was nice, but 2 miles from downtown. I usually took the bus, but on nice days I walked. The bus system only runs till 11, so if you wanted to go out at night, it was either walk home or take an expensive taxi. I opted to walk with friends. My furniture at the house was already there. I did buy a few pieces of cookware so I could cook things I was used to. They had cookware there, but not what I needed.

I LOVED the food in France. I found my favorite restaurants and chocolate places as I learned the city. I was never hungry at my house or when I went out. I found lots of good restaurants in downtown around the Pau castle and train station. The people were all friendly and enjoyed seeing students trying to learn their language. They were helpful when we were stuck and enjoyed helping us.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

In February, I took a train to Rome with two others. I loved Rome and had a blast. I liked how I could travel very easily by train or plane and there was enough people who spoke English in these cities that I was able to enjoy my trip and have great pictures and memories.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I felt very safe in my city. Even when I visited Barcelona, Rome and Paris, I never felt endanger, but was constantly reminded about pick-pocketers. I registered with the US embassy on line and they would alert me when new dangers arose in Europe. Thankfully none were in the area I was.

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

I felt that from the time I arrived to France, to the time I left, I had made leaps and bounds in my language. I could carry on a conversation with my tutor and I was able to navigate the Paris subway system to the airport, I was lost. I also was able to help my family, US, when they came over, communicate with waitors, family and vendors while they visited.

Select all that apply

• Host Family

Select all that apply

• Host Family