France: Finding the flip side of my history and myself Past Review

By (French, Goucher College) for

IFE: Paris Field Study

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Definitely

Review Photos

Internships in Francophone Europe (IFE): Field Study and Internship Program Photo

Personal Information

If you took classes at multiple universities, list those universities here: n/a
How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 6 months+

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The work load was average: some more complicated than others. It was interesting to experience the different systems, but once we got going, it became natural for most of us. I was glad to be able to learn French as a regular french student. I can't really compare the two Universities because it would be like comparing apples and oranges; they are different. I am glad to be back because I am a bit more confident about what I want to do after college now.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

It is hard to be a vegetarian in France, and be on a budget

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Repas collectif: Where a group of people get together to make and eat foreign dishes from different countries. It was open to everyone in the dorm. It was also a great way to meet people.

* 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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? at least 50 Euros
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Look out for the money conversions. It can be quite painful!

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Advanced
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? 300 level
If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Language acquisition improvement?

I did have to speak French everyday. I have french friends with whom I practice. Most of the students spoke English.

Other Program Information

* 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? Go with an open mind, you might surprise yourself!