Indescribable Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

SLC in Paris was an incredible experience: it is a challenging program but the rewards are well worth it. With dedication and perseverance, I gained much more than I could have imagined through my study abroad experience.

On-site administration of your program

All of the directors are superb!! They work the hardest they can and are always available for both a casual conversation or a serious matter. All of the events that were planned were wonderful, useful, and fun. I was immensely sad to leave the three of them behind and hope to connect with them in the future.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I chose to live at the Cite Universitaire, which had both positive and negatives. The communal living space is often messy and loud. We had multiple issues with the internet service, stealing food, and water. However, the rooms are quite large and the environment in the Cite Universitaire can be very rewarding. I met many other international students and used the library and RestoU at the Cite. Although it is in the very bottom of Paris, the RER stop is very close and the neighborhood is reasonably nice.

I have mixed feelings about this because the food was obviously amazing but also sometimes pricey. If you grocery shop accordingly, you can make some excellent meals at a reasonable price. I found that the quality of food was in general much better than that in the USA. Going out to eat can get expensive, but it is worth the occasional nice meal or lunch at prix fixe. The program organizing some really great food outings as well!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

It really does take a whole year for this: the first semester was extremely frustrating and challenging on a cultural level. After winter break, you have more time to take in the city and get in touch with what you're trying to do while abroad. It takes a lot of compromise and coming to terms with things, rather than changing yourself. It is important to come in with an open mind and to be wary of your international identity.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

I didn't have a ton of experience medically, but when I got a small cold I went into the pharmacy to get medicine...this was very useful because I did not have to go to a doctor. There was one weekend I got very sick and considered going to the equivalent of an emergency room, but the process seemed complicated and overwhelming when I simply did not feel well. I ended up staying in my room and talking to family at home about the issue. It is a challenge to face the system in another country that you know nothing about.

Paris is a large international city, there are obviously problems with theft and, with woman, being catcalled. I think it must be kept in mind that these are always possibilities and take precautions such as stay in a group, pay attention to your surroundings, and speak in French! It may seem silly but it really does help to blend in and act as if you know what you are doing if you are in a dangerous situation. Wait until you are comfortable in the city before you push any safety boundaries.

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

It was not very easy to live on a student's budget...this is Paris. It is possible to cut costs but keep in mind you will be spending a lot of money. There are a lot of costs in getting your visa, your metro pass, food, and entertainment.

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

It was mandatory to always speak French!

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• Americans
• International Students

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• International Students

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