Aix-en-Provence; One of the best and most memorable experience of my life Past Review

By (PSYCHOLOGY., Truman State University) for

Institute for American Universities (IAU): The School of Humanities & Social Sciences, Aix-en-Provence, France

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I made fantastic long-term friends during my time abroad, I learned a lot about cultural differences between America and France and Europe in general. In addition, I fell in love with the language and culture of France. It has motivated me to continue learning the language and I will try to go back as soon as possible!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

My host country and program did an adequate job explaining what the experience would be. They answered questions and provided adequate information. However, the information and aid did not go above and beyond any normal expectations.

* 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)

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
Language acquisition improvement?

I could practice French with my host family, with my professors, classmates, and French friends that I made while living in Aix. However, most people spoke English. Therefore it was up to me how much I wanted to practice my language skills.

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

  • Americans
  • Host Family

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Be open to new experiences and cultural differences. Aix and France has a lot to offer so don't be shy about asking questions and traveling. Aix is in a perfect location to experience a lot of what Southern France has to offer.

Individual Course Reviews

Course Name/Rating:

French 212 Conversations in French Culture

Course Department:
Instructor: Margaux Hofstad
Instruction Language: French
Comments: The professor was exceptional. She was a significant reason why this program was so wonderful for me. She gave the class insight into the cultural differences between America and France in terms of the city we were in and our region.
Credit Transfer Issues: