Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

my experiences in paris were life altering! Past Review

By (HSSP, Brandeis University) - abroad from 08/31/2015 to 12/18/2015 with

Boston University: Paris - Internship Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned about the french workforce and the work culture. I learned that my french skills were strong enough to communicate in a work environment as well as amongst french citizens my age. I believe this experience to have been very rewarding. I am very glad I returned to paris for my second semester abroad.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 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?

My housing was in a desirable location. My room was beautiful complete with a full bed, dresser set and patio with a desk. My only suggestion is that BU offer more meals with the host families, as this is the best way to exchange ideas and partake in a cultural immersion experience.

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I integrated well as i didnt hang out with the BU students. I made plenty of french friends. We hung out at cafes and went to museums and walked along the seine.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

During BU orientation the director addressed safety concerns. In the aftermath of the paris attacks BU directors did a wonderful job assuring the safety of its students.

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)

I spent roughly 30 euros on groceries a week. this sum allowed me to cook 4-5 meals per week. i bought my lunch most days, so that was a 5 euro sandwhich or a 3 euro crepe. On the weekends I went out with friends.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 120
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? NA

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

At the BU office a fair amount of english was spoken by the students. If your objective is language immersion then one must take on the responsibility of only speaking french even if the other BU participants are speaking english.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Advanced
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? French 131A Brandeis Elective credits
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? meet locals.

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

  • Americans
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?
  • internship opportunity
* What could be improved?
  • grammar course
  • elimination of friday culture events
  • add culture events such as theater and dance performances throughout the semester
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? NA

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 Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.