Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Personally challenging, but so absolutely worthwhile! January 16, 2022

By (Wellesley College) - abroad from 08/21/2021 to 12/17/2021 with

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

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
My French improved so much over the course of the semester (mostly my speaking / listening abilities), and I loved having the opportunity to explore new cities, do some local (and international) travel, meet other international students at Science Po, connect with my host family, and eat incredible food!

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.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* 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:

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
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? FREN 250h

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

  • 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?
  • Opportunities for cultural excursions & travel
  • Emphasis on cultural immersion over academic courseload
  • French immersion
* What could be improved?
  • Monthly student allowances
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? It can be surprisingly difficult to connect with French students — if this is one of your goals, make sure to enroll in some classes for French students (not just those for international students) and join some student groups!