AIFS Abroad in Paris, France (CCFS): Semester

AIFS was helpful in the pre-departure, and in ensuring that all students were ready to go and prepared for Paris! We stayed with a host family and had a weekly dinner with the family. It was nice to get to experience living like a true Parisian. CCFS was, from what I experienced, mostly international students. I went in knowing almost no French and I learned a LOT!!! It was really easy to go out and meet locals, but I did not meet many locals at school! Everyone that was in the program was wonderful and the AIFS staff are amazing! The study-abroad students that I was with became like my family and we still stay in touch now! The only drawback was the lack of variety of classes that CCFS offered non-french speakers.

When I got back to my home university my friend asked how I would describe my trip in three words, discovery, blessing, and fun! It completely rocked my view of the world and travel in general, to see the beauty of another culture is a great opportunity. I also learned a lot about myself and life as I navigated relationships and everyday interactions in a different language. At times it was challenging but it was also so much fun. The number one reason I was afraid to go was because of my fear of missing out on something at my home university, but that was not the case at all I missed a few fun times but nothing worth changing my trip to France and my friends were still there when I got back! Last I was definitely blessed because I feel the three greatest factors on any study abroad trip are the host family, school and roommate and all of these factors were tremendous! If you are considering study abroad this is a no brainer, do it and it’s okay to go without someone you know!

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My number one goal while studying in France was to increase my fluency in the French language. With the French courses offered at CCFS as well as the language immersion I got from living in France, I was definitely able to reach my goal. I also found the Art and Architecture course offered by AIFS to be very interesting and informative about French history and culture. As for housing, I was placed in an apartment in the heart of Paris, the best location I could ask for. The AIFS on-site staff was always very helpful and accommodating, specifically to my dietary needs as a vegan. There were many events planned for our program group which made it easy to get involved. Overall, my study abroad experience was very enjoyable with AIFS.

This was a wonderful experience in a new country! I was able to live, eat, and breathe French. I would have given all 10's but I had a massive issue with my assigned roommate. I was unable to leave the living situation all together and ended up living in another room with the same family. This lead to so many uncomfortable situations that could have been avoided if my program could have provided a new living situation when requested. Otherwise, I got everything I dreamed of and more from my semester in Paris.

I am beyond thrilled that I had this experience. I was able to fully immerse myself in learning french while studying in the heart of Paris. I made lifelong friends, and developed a relationship with my homestay family. This experience increased my desire to travel and learn more about foreign countries and their people. I truly hope that everyone will have the same experiences that I have had.

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This program was the best choice for my pocket, a reality that comes with its own pros and cons. I loved that the airfare and housing was included in my program costs. It took a lot of the hassle out of planning, and helped me to be able to focus on other things. I also loved that the program offered great classes that I could take at one of the best schools in France. I took a whopping 18 credits while overseas, all of which transferred to my degree. The courses were in both French and English, and they were culturally and linguistically enriching. I loved my professors and the school itself is a wonderful resource for international students. AIFS also did a great job of allowing students to get a balance of both guided and independent experiences. They hold your hand through the first weeks of school, but allow you to be independent as well if you choose. My housing, which they selected and procured for me, was in a great location. My only caution for students planning to participate in this program is that they make sure to take every chance to act as individuals and meet other local people. The unfortunate reality for most American students abroad is that they don't leave the comfort of their social groups, and AIFS's insulated cultural and social activities can sometimes cater to this comfort instead encouraging or facilitating experiences with local people. I ultimately enjoyed my experience, and would definitely encourage students to go abroad with AIFS, especially if they want to have a simple, comfortable and easy experience.

Studying abroad in France was nothing less than the most amazing and liberating experience of my life. Living abroad can open your mind to incredible new experiences and introduce you to some incredible people. Your tastes and desires may shift, but everything will improve. Every facet of my life is happier and more fulfilling since I studied abroad, and my connections at home have suffered very little, even after I moved abroad again. This is a life worth living. With the exception of my close friends at home who are sick of hearing about it, most people are really impressed when I tell them I have lived in France, and the worldly experience I gained there continues to help me in my current life, as it will in the future.

Yes I'd recommend it. It was amazing. Great program.