Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Aix has my heart Past Review

By (Barnard College) - abroad from 01/09/2016 to 05/08/2016 with

France Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained so much intercultural fluency, and made so much progress in my french language skills (which were already decent). Everyday was an adventure, so yes worthwhile to put it lightly. By the end, the way I saw myself and my future had completely changed. I understand the importance of education overseas, and there's no doubt in my mind I will be going back to France to continue my studies. Finally, I gained friendships with the aixois that will stay with me the rest of my life, and developed a love for the city of Aix that I've never felt for another place.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

No question about it!

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 55 euros
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Instead of going out for lunch, buy groceries and make your own lunch. The program has a great kitchen!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? 3000 literature course
How many hours per day did you use the language? 10+
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? You just have to speak French 24/7!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Homestay
  • Professors
  • Emphasis on Integration
* What could be improved?
  • Language Partner Program was good, but there could've been more events hosted by the program at the beginning to foster the relationship.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Don't be afraid of anything. Starting as soon as the first week...(the first day!) go out and find the things that interest you in Aix, so by the end you really feel like a part of the city.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!