Push your French with the DEUF program Past Review

By (International Business., New Mexico State University) for

University of Jean Moulin - Lyon III - Lyon - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I would say my experience was definately worthwhile. At first, I thought I had made a horrible mistake and the first week I was there, all I did was cry. But after the first week, things got a lot easier and I grew to be very confident and self-reliant. I think I gained a maturity there that I wouldn't have gained otherwise. I also grew to appreciate both the French culture and American as well because of the things I learned and the things that I missed. The only reason I wouldn't do this program again is because of the administration system. If your sole reason for studying abroad is to travel and grow as a person, Lyon could be the perfect program for you.

Personal Information

The term and year this program took place: Fall 2009

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The school system there is hard to get used to. The international student's office isn't that helpful and they don't seem to know what they're doing most of the time. Classes can change times and classrooms on you 5 minutes before you're supposed to start class (I almost missed a final because of this). The teachers don't really seem to care all that much (this can be a good or a bad thing--no homework or tests [except for a final that counts for your entire class grade]) and they're not all that competent. Administration takes FOREVER to get anything done and they don't always get it right. No housing on campus, you can either go through the school to find an apartment or look yourself (I'd recommend going through the school, even though it's ridiculously expensive). If you have a lot of patience, work well with change, and are very independent you could adapt to this program.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

If you are considering this program, I HIGHLY recommend the DEUF program as opposed to the SELF one. I was in SELF and my French didn't improve at all. My friend, on the other hand, was in the DEUF program and he became fluent in the language within the first month of classes. He assured me that there were beginners in the DEUF program, so don't let the fact that the program is all in French intimidate you (they grade you easier than they do the regular students). You'll still have to put up with the horrible administration, but at least you'll be fluent in the language.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Housing can be really expensive! I got an apartment really close to the school that was nice, but overpriced. I had to pay 530E a month for rent PLUS UTILITIES. Not to mention that I had to buy my own microwave. Not a lot of nightlife around the campus but the metro was across the street so I had an easy way to get around the city (just be aware that the metro shuts down at midnight).

* Food:

The food was AMAZING, if a little expensive. Try to avoid the touristy places (except for Bananas in Vieux Lyon--they have the most amazing crepes ever). I recommend going to the Farmer's Market on the Saone River on Sundays for fairly cheap fruits, veggies, and other foods.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Believe me when I say that you'll meet some of the most amazing people ever in this program. Everyone in the international students program becomes really close and you'll make friendships that will last a lifetime. If you manage your finances wisely and are a smart traveler, you'll have one of the best experiences of your life in Lyon (minus the education system of course). Even if you can't travel every weekend, you should still try to make it to a few places. You definately won't be sorry.

* Safety:

Lyon is a fairly safe city. Just be aware of your surrounds and use common sense. There are a few areas one should avoid at night, but other than that, I had no problems.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? No

Finances

Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? I didn't open a bank account, but I definately recommend it--the fees and conversion rate my US bank account were killing me! From what I heard, the banking system could be a little complicated but everyone seemed to sort through it okay. Because of the conversion rate, it can get REALLY expensive, so be sure to manage your money wisely.

Language

Language acquisition improvement?

I already knew French going into the program, so I didn't find it that helpful. The classes were pretty much just a review of everything I already knew. You'll improve your French in everyday life because you'll hear it around you all the time, not because of the class. The only real positive thing was that my confidence in the language improved drastically.

A Look Back

* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? If you are independent and self-confident you can succeed in this program. If, however, you like structure and routine, you probably should consider a different program. Like I said, the school and administration system are terrible, but the city itself is amazing. If you don't want to go to school here, you should definately at least make a visit to this city. You won't regret it.