A Cultural Experience! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

My main academic challenge was learning the material in French. The courses aren't harder than at Middlebury, they're just in a different language. The French system also emphasizes memorizing what the professor says in class. Overall, I enjoyed my courses.

On-site administration of your program

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I stayed with a host family that was kind but also gave me space to relax and be independent. It was a good cultural experience.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I found it difficult to integrate with the local students, but I'm also pretty introverted.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

N/A

Bordeaux is a wonderful city. I never had any issues with safety.

I really loved Bordeaux. They have a great way of life and the people are friendly and kind. There are a lot of great shops and restaurants, and the city is beautiful. Academics are important, but only a part of the study abroad experience.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

The language pledge can be difficult, but I would encourage people to try to stick to it. You really improve a lot if you do.

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• Host Family

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• Host Family

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

• Bordeaux the city
• Travelling
• Food

• Classes
• Social integration with French students

The Academic or Linguist