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!

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.