Paris and Beyond! Past Review

By (Sport Management, St. John's University) for

St. John's University: Paris - Discover France

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I gained new friends and a new sense of self. I grew up while I was away and discovered that I love traveling. I believe I am a more well rounded person now and have a greater acceptance of other cultures. Because of this experience I plan to one day live abroad.

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.

I think the workload is not over the top. Yes you have to attend class and there are assignments but they are minimal. The professors understand you are here to see the country and want you to do so. The teaching method is different so be open to it. Your hand is not held and you have less assignments to be graded on. The class selection was perfect for me because all of the classes I took were required for graduation and I even took an online class.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I loved the faculty at our Paris campus. They were so friendly and helpful. Some French and some American they really cared about the students and gave us cool trip ideas, restaurant and site suggestions. They were especially helpful during the adjustment period from home to a foreign country.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

The neighborhood we were in was wonderful. Quiet and so close to so much, I never felt unsafe. Sheets, towels and basic necessities were there when we arrived and there was a supermarket right next door if we really needed anything. The rooms were small but the buildings were small so it was to be expected. We had communal bathrooms which were never a hassle and cleaned daily.

* Food:

The program provides 8 meals a week M-Th breakfast and dinner and then F-Sun you are on your own. I didn't mind it because there is a refrigerator to use on campus and like I said a supermarket right next door if you need. The food is different, its French obviously and good to approach with an open mind.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

We were offered many opportunities to go on guided tours of the city and surrounding areas. As a semester student we took two weekend trips. One to Strasbourg and the other to Toulouse. In addition we visited the D-Day beaches in Normandy and Giverny, where Monet lived and painted. There is an endless amount of culture and attractions in the city and surrounding areas you could never be bored.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

I never felt unsafe in our neighborhood or in our building. We have 24/7 staff that checked us in and out of the buildings. Your location was always known, whether you were in the city or another country. As for personal safety traveling with friends, its important to stay on your guard just like it is here at home.

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

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

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
Language acquisition improvement?

I took French I and II and both were phenominal. My professor was exceptional and I learned a lot. Not only about the language but about the culture as well. He spoke very good English and was extremely patient with us. Learning French was really helpful for everyday life in Paris too!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • The "on campus" feel.
  • The staff.
  • The trips.
* What could be improved?
  • The food.
  • The laundry facilities.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Do as much as you can and everything you want to because before you know it you will be on your way back home.