An Aix-cellent Experience Past Review

By (Wellesley College) - abroad from 01/03/2017 to 05/14/2017 with

Wellesley College: Aix-en-Provence - Wellesley-in-Aix

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Understanding of another culture, particularly political views, and systems, a new level of capability in the language, and a unique look into how we learn language as children and adults.

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

Absolutely incredible, but once sent me to the hospital (peanut allergy)

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

City of Aix is very safe

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

The program was so well run, provided us ample opportunity to immerse ourselves in the culture, and learn the language. Such a valuable experience!!

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)

Not terrible. Spent a little extra money out of pocket, but mostly on vacations which weren't *techincally* a part of the program

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? 90 euros, maybe
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? This program grants you access to a kitchen, use it! Cook lunches with others. You'll make friends, save money, and gain new skills

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

No english was spoken in the program center and with host parents

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
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? The requirement for the program (French 210)
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? Live with a host family!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Host Family
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • 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?
  • The scheduled trips
  • The opportunity to study at french university
  • My host family
* What could be improved?
  • More nightime access to study abroad center
  • Nothing!
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? That I was going to want to stay longer!

Reasons For Studying Abroad

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The Outright Urbanite
A social butterfly, you're happiest in bustling cities with hip people, and took advantage of all it had to offer. You enjoyed the nightlife, and had fun going out dancing, and socializing with friends. Fun-loving and dressed to the nines, you enjoyed discovering new restaurants, shops, cafes, and bars in your host country.