Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An Inside Look into Life in France Past Review

By (Neurobiology, Neurosciences, Vanderbilt University) - abroad from 09/04/2013 to 12/13/2013 with

Vanderbilt University: Aix-en-Provence - Vanderbilt Center

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I improved my French and learned more about its culture.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Going into this program, I felt that I was conversant in French, but I was still nervous with the responsibilities that entail when living in a foreign country. Fortunately, I found that VIF was able to provide me with all the resources necessary for a smooth transition to life in France while continuing to improve my knowledge of the French language and culture. Only helping the educational experience, was the opportunity to become close with my professors, my French roommates, and my fellow classmates. All in all, it was an unforgettable experience that only encouraged me to continue with my French studies beyond college.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

Very helpful, transparent and did all within their ability to make life easy.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Loved it. The apartments were fantastic and it was wonderful opportunity to be able to practice and learn from a French roommate.

* Food:

I was fortunate to have a wonderful host who cared about us and went out of her way to make wonderful food.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

Aix is about as safe and nice of city that one can study in France.

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)

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

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Advanced
How many hours per day did you use the language?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

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

Select all that apply

  • Americans
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?
  • French roommate
  • French Host
  • VIF administration
* What could be improved?
  • Not sure...
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Not sure...

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!