Still talking about my time abroad years later! Past Review
By Kate H (Psychology, University of Massachusetts Amherst) for
API (Academic Programs International): Paris - Universite Paris Diderot
Yes, definitely! I feel like I really grew up when I studied abroad-- became more responsible, better understood my own cultural background, and continue to search for similar experiences. I was an intern for API when I returned to UMass, and I even ended up writing my thesis on the positive outcomes of study abroad.
Personal Information
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 2 weeks - 1 month |
Review Your Program
* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
I really appreciated the opportunity to choose my classes and be totally immersed in the "real" French university setting. It was balanced really nicely with the API-offered class on French cuisine and my teaching internship-- I felt like I had the chance to try it all! |
* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
While I felt well-supported, I very much appreciated that I was never stifled by API staff and had the opportunity to be as independent as I chose. |
* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Although I didn't often speak French at the cite, I did have the opportunity to meet a variety of international students. I loved the flexibility-- how I could come and go whenever I wanted-- but I missed the homey feeling that a host family might provide. |
* Food: |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
I loved the API offered excursions, and went to almost every one. I felt like API gave me a great base to then explore the city on my own and get to know it as a resident. By the end of my trip I felt so connected to Paris that I'm constantly looking for excuses to get back! |
* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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* Safety: |
I never had any major issues, but felt like I had the support I needed if they did arise. |
If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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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) |
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Language
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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Other Program Information
* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | Be present! Wherever you are, try to really enjoy it. |