Four Months in France, an experience of a lifetime. Past Review

By (French Language and Literature., Providence College) for

France Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I think it had a significant impact on my life. Not only did I benefit from the language skills for my major but I think it helped me grow as a person in general. I now feel much more independent and aware. I feel like I see the world in a different way and have more open way of dealing with things. It also helped me to focus in on what I want to do after I graduated.

Personal Information

If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: universite paris IV Sorbonne
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 0-2 weeks

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

I felt I received an educational experience not only inside the classroom but outside of it. Living with a host family really helped my language skills.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

I felt the administration of my host program was great. They were always available and took the time to get to know the students one on one.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

My first host family was very cold and not welcoming. My second host family was very friendly, and went above and beyond to make me feel like I was part of their family. It helped improve my language skills and my awareness of other cultures.

* 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)

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Pace yourself throughout your stay, try not to buy too much in the beginning. I was surprised at how much money I spent on food.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

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

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I think its great, its a very personable program so it makes you feel like you have people to turn to for questions or support. All of the faculty are friendly, enthusiastic and genuinly interested in the students.