Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Amazing! Past Review

By (Xavier University of Louisiana) - abroad from 06/05/2016 to 06/30/2016 with

MICEFA: Summer Program in Paris

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about another country and was given the opportunity to truly appreciate both my home country and the host one.

Review Photos

MICEFA: Summer Program in Paris Photo MICEFA: Summer Program in Paris Photo MICEFA: Summer Program in Paris 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.

It was great. I learned so much within the classroom and I also had the opportunity to see the things I learned about in action.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

There was always someone we could get in contact with and everyone was very helpful.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

We stayed in a hostel which was a little different. The wash machines and dryers weren't the greatest, but we had access to the necessities.

* Food:

Loved the food in France! Keep an open and be sure to try new things.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I felt like we truly got the chance to experience France. Definitely try to speak the native language as it makes it easier to communicate with locals.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

There were no specific vaccines needed for this program. I did have to go to the doctor while in this program. The director helped set up my appointment. The only issue was getting there due to some street closures.

* Safety:

There area we were in was very safe. Make sure you pay attention to your surroundings and follow typical safety guidelines.

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)

I ended up buying a lot of souvenirs to bring back home, however food was not too expensive so it is possible to live on a student's budget.

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Pay attention to how much you spend and make a budget for each week. Make sure not to go over.

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

However if you are not fluent it is still possible to et around. Locals really appreciate if you attempt to use the language

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Beginner
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Elementary French
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Try to talk to people in that language and definitely study words and phrases. There are even apps, such as Duolingo, that can be used to study language on the go.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
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?
  • It was informative
  • Eye-opening
* What could be improved?
  • living arrangements
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew how to pack lighter. It's hard trying to come back with all the clothes you bring and the stuff you buy for yourself and others.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!