AIFS: Grenoble- University of Grenoble - French Language and Culture Photo

Grenoble, France was the most memorable experience I've ever had

Program Information

Full academic year, fall or spring semester in Grenoble, France. Courses taught in both English and French in art history, business administration, economics, history, literature and political science, plus French language. Those taking French seminars must place into intermediate French. One (recent) year of ... More

Provider: AIFS
Location(s): Grenoble, France
Year Founded: 1964
Website Take me there!

Review By:

Michelle L. (Secondary Education/Mathematics, University of Vermont) on September 12, 2011

Overall Rating

Personal Information

* Start Date: 2011-01-14
* End Date: 2011-05-21
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Fair workload and grading, great professors and a wonderful program director; teaching methods similar to those in the US, at least at the university I attended

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

you got a lot for your money (food was mostly included, there were included excursions, etc.); in terms of classes, you took classes based on your level, which was a good thing - not everyone was grouped together; small program, it was more personal that way. I loved it, it was a great experience!

* Housing:

my host family was incredibly welcoming and helpful. they helped me not only learn the language but adjust to French life and made my experience so much more memorable.

* Food:

families provided the food, it was great. they met all your needs and asked what you liked and didn't like

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

paris, geneva, provence with the program, and lots of other traveling outside of the program

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

grenoble is not known to be very safe, but it is! i never felt unsafe, regardless of the time or place, even as a young american girl. i loved it!

* Home Institution Advising:

How well did University of Vermont prepare and support you for your time abroad?

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)

Language

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family

A Look Back

* If you could do it all over again, would you choose the same program? Yes
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? someone who is independent and is sociable and willing to talk to your family. someone who is not afraid to make mistakes when learning the language.
* What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile? YES.