New Culture? Learn to Adapt. Past Review

By (ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE/LETTERS., Brigham Young University) - abroad from 04/25/2012 to 06/09/2012 with

Brigham Young University: Paris - Paris Study Abroad

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned about a new culture and how to adjust and adapt to a new way of life. It was definitely worth while and I loved it. I learned that even if you know you aren't perfect at speaking a foreign language, you should just do it. Don't worry about how you sound, because as you practice you get better.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

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

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)

* Was housing included in your program cost? Yes
* Was food included in your program cost? Yes
Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $20
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Don't use the money the program gives you for souvenirs! Use it for the necessities; food, etc.

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? French 201
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Practice with other students and make French friends who are patient enough to talk to you. Talking to the locals really helps, SO SO MUCH.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
  • Apartment
  • Hotel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • 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?
  • Our classes were definitely taken seriously.
* What could be improved?
  • Keeping up with all the homework was exhausting. It could be more manageable.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Check the weather before you pack.