An Adventure in Paris: The Cultural Epicenter Past Review
By Justine P (English, Art History, Wellesley College) for
France Study Abroad Reflections: Comprehensive Reviews of Past Programs
Absolutely. I learned so much about myself as an individual, about the french language and culture, and I made a few lifelong friends, including my host family. I intend to return to Paris, to live. I think my positive experience has defined me, and I can see myself calling Paris "home".
Personal Information
| If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: | Sorbonne- Paris IV Michelet |
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
A part of the work load was definitely understanding in the classroom, as all classes were taught in French, and at the Sorbonne, the French was often rapid and colloquial. My French improved drastically just by attending and paying attention in lecture, but it definitely was work. At the end of the semester, the work load became substantially greater, and I had to do an exposé (20 minute presentation of a work of art to the class) for my classes at the Sorbonne. This was nerve wrecking, but incredibly rewarding. I worked hard at my Sorbonne classes because they were very difficult. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The program is very small, but it is very well managed by the people in the office. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I lived in one of the best neighborhoods in Paris, with an amazing host family who I will remain in contact with for the rest of my life. My host family made my experience. |
| * Food: |
I have no dietary restrictions. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
We had some great excursions. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
Paris is very safe. I had my wallet stolen but that was all. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* 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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| Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? | 20 Euros (40-50 dollars) |
| Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? | Travel is expensive, buying souvenirs are expensive. If you want to travel, make sure you budget for it. |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Intermediate |
| What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? | 206 and 211, intermediate conversation and writing. |
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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| Language acquisition improvement? |
We were not allowed to Speak English. When English was heard our director was involved. |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | An independent student. Paris is a beautiful place with a very independent vibe. A student who can work hard on his or her own will succeed. This program is not campy at all, you are very much encouraged to do things on your own, although they do help set you up well for success. |
