Paris - la ville d'amour Past Review

By (French Language and Literature., Roger Williams University) - abroad from 01/11/2012 to 05/19/2012 with

CIEE: Paris - French And Critical Studies

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned to be more confident in my speaking abilities, being forced to speak the language each day definitely encouraged me. I am a whole new person after this experience. I would do it over again in a heartbeat.

Review Photos

CIEE: Paris - Critical + Francophone Studies Photo CIEE: Paris - Critical + Francophone Studies Photo CIEE: Paris - Critical + Francophone Studies Photo

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? $300.00
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? -baguettes make great lunch

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? Advanced French
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? Even when the waiters speak back to you in English, do not get discouraged. Keep trying in French.

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?
  • Food
  • Host family
  • Culture
* What could be improved?
  • Host family selection process
  • Class choices
  • Help with the Visa application process
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? OFII health form and costs