IES Abroad Nantes – French Language Immersion & Area Studies

I had such an amazing experience in Nantes. I met new friends who I can't imagine living without now and we explored the city together for 4 months and had so much fun. From trying new restaurants to buying gifts for secret santa at the christmas market to getting drinks at the 'chat noir' bar and gossiping together. I can't express my gratitude to IES enough for bringing me such amazing friends who I got to experience such a great city with.

While abroad in Nantes, I experienced incredible academics, community, and exploration. In my time there, I stayed with a host family who took me in like I was a part of their own family. They invited me to events with them, supported me when I performed at our Thanksgiving Dinner hosted by IES, and generally was so kind and interested in my life. Academically, I was able to take classes at the local university where I met college students my age from France. I truly felt like part of the college student community. I also took a painting class at the Académie des Beaux Arts where I met a variety of people of a variety of ages, widening my community. And finally, I took classes with the IES Abroad students and staff. These were smaller classes where I could work on improving my French skills through a variety of subjects like history and film. Finally, the staff at IES Abroad Nantes is truly remarkable. They care so very much about their students, and are so invested in our health, safety, and success. This staff included 4 social and academic tutors our age. They helped us improve our French skills and also get involved in our Nantes community. They made us a family at IES.

IES Abroad Nantes truly provided me with the experience of a lifetime. Originally, I never wanted to go abroad, despite how one of my majors is in Francophone Studies. I attended multiple study abroad information sessions and turned down each one. Then, hours before the deadline to declare if you were going abroad, I told my college that I’d go. I looked through all my options, searching for a program that would be similar enough to my home in Maine. I found IES Abroad Nantes and, based on how it was near the Atlantic Ocean, thought I’d give it a try. I filled out their easy application, and IES Abroad walked me through the more complicated Visa application process. When it came down to a month before departure, they sent me plenty of information on what to do once I arrived in France. Upon arrival, IES Abroad Nantes faculty met me at the train station and made sure I made it to their centre, and then home to my host family. My host family was so wonderful and understanding of the shock that comes with experiencing a new culture and language without the support of people you know. I quickly grew very close with my host family. I ate dinner with them each night, and they left breakfast out for me in the mornings. My host mother and I drank tea by the fireplace each night before bed, then I’d watch the news with my host father. When they weren’t home, my youngest host sister and I made dinner together and chatted into the night, exchanging stories about our lives and cultures. I was even invited to my host brother’s fiançailles (engagement party), and I hadn’t even officially met him yet! That night spent in celebration with my five host siblings is one of my best memories of being abroad. As for the IES center, I took three classes there. The classes were small and consisted entirely of exchange students, yet they were all entirely in French. The small class sizes allowed me to get close to the professors, who were natively French. Additionally, there were tutors at the center who hosted events which encouraged us to immerse ourselves further into the culture of Nantes. A few examples are study sessions in local cafés, seasonal festivities happening throughout the city, weekly karaoke at a local bar, and a weekly Conversation Club that invited French university students to come chat with and then go out to dinner with our group of exchange students. On top of all this, IES Abroad Nantes provided us to go on excursions to visit other parts of France. As a group, we would leave for a weekend and IES Abroad Nantes provided us with room and board, as well as transportation and guidance. A few of the 12 places we visited in France outside of Nantes through IES Abroad were Guérande, les châteaux de la Loire Région, and Caen. I also took two classes outside of the center at the local French university, Nantes Université. My self-confidence improved immensely during this experience, as I realized I could excel in a classroom setting that was designed for native French-speakers. Because of this experience as a whole, my fluency in French skyrocketed. Not only that, but I also now have connections with people in France, as well as some exchange students from Lithuania and Germany. I also have a new knowledge of and love for a city I would not have discovered otherwise. I hope to return soon to my second-home and reunite with my host family and friends.

Studying abroad in Nantes with IES Abroad was an incredible and transformative experience that I will cherish for a lifetime. From the moment I arrived in this charming French city to the day I left, IES Abroad ensured that every aspect of my study abroad journey was not only enjoyable but also enriching. Academic Excellence (5/5): The academic program at IES Abroad in Nantes was top-notch. The courses were thoughtfully designed to integrate French language and culture, allowing us to immerse ourselves in both the language and the local way of life. The professors were not only experts in their fields but also passionate about helping us succeed. I felt challenged academically, which was exactly what I was hoping for in a study abroad program. Cultural Immersion (5/5): Living with a host family was one of the highlights of my experience. It provided me with a unique opportunity to engage with locals, practice my French, and gain insights into French culture that I wouldn't have had otherwise. IES Abroad also organized cultural excursions and activities that allowed us to explore Nantes and other regions of France. These experiences helped me develop a deep appreciation for French culture and history. Supportive Staff (5/5): The IES Abroad staff in Nantes were exceptionally supportive throughout the program. From helping us with paperwork and logistics to offering guidance on adjusting to life in a new country, they were always there when we needed them. Their dedication to our well-being and success made us feel like we were part of a close-knit community. Safe and Inclusive Environment (5/5): I always felt safe and welcome in Nantes. The city is known for its friendly residents and overall safety, and IES Abroad took additional measures to ensure our security. The program also fostered inclusivity, embracing students from diverse backgrounds and creating an environment where everyone felt valued and respected. Life-changing Experience (5/5): My time in Nantes with IES Abroad was truly life-changing. I not only improved my language skills but also gained a global perspective, developed lifelong friendships with both locals and fellow students, and grew personally in ways I couldn't have imagined. The memories and lessons from this experience will stay with me forever. In conclusion, studying abroad in Nantes with IES Abroad was a dream come true. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to explore France, learn the language, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. It's an experience that will not only enrich your academic and cultural knowledge but also shape you as a person. Thank you, IES Abroad, for making my study abroad adventure in Nantes unforgettable!

Studying abroad was one of the best experiences I could've had. Every day I noticed personal growth and confidence within myself and I am proud that I went on this journey fully by myself. I was also supported by my peers and IES staff who I will remember forever. The relationships I made on this trip, the personal growth, and immersive experience has positively affected me forever!

My time in Nantes was unforgettable and I am so grateful for IES, which not only paired me with an amazing host family that helped immerse me into the culture, but also gave me the opportunity to be an intern at a local middle school and get to have professors from the University of Nantes who were all very knowledgeable and amazing individuals themselves. I really enjoyed doing this program as it gave me the opportunity to use my French a lot more and I felt that I got the chance to improve even more than I would have if I had gone to a bigger city. Despite saying that though, Nantes still offers many of the amenities of a larger city and it was great to have the balance of living outside the city and going to school in the city, which was walkable from my housing. The four months I spent there felt like only 2 weeks and I'm so glad I got to have this experience. It was truly the perfect experience for me.

My time studying abroad for the Academic Year (2021-2022) in Nantes, France with IES was one of the most incredible times. I will always cherish the memories of the places I travelled, the food, the conversations, the people I met, the personal growth, confidence, and so many more amazing things I experienced abroad. I could go on and on about how much I love studying abroad and think everyone should do it. First, I think I was most nervous about my living situation because I was staying with a French family, and you never know. Fortunately, I absolutely loved my host family! They were so sweet and patient with me, and the absolute loveliest. I loved my meals with them, watching a movie after dinner or playing French Scrabble, going to the countryside with them, and other fond moments. So basically (just so I can make this post relatively to the point), living with a host family was amazing and really added to my time abroad in the best way! IES was also so helpful with so much of the living abroad process, including housing. They were always there in case you needed any assistance with your living situation, and truly wanted everyone to feel comfortable and enjoy their host families. The staff are also the sweetest. I loved just talking to them about anything, and most of the time it wasn’t even related to assistance or concerns, they’re just fun people to talk to (and practice French with)! IES also organizes cultural trips to different areas near Nantes which is informative, interesting, and fun. We also do so many activities within Nantes with the amazing French Assistants who are French students turned friends! There are many academic options at the local University, the fine arts University, and IES. I was able to take classes at all three, and it was a great experience to see French University life, as well as create art in France!! The classes at IES are great because the University professors know they’re teaching non-French native speakers, so I still learned so much but at a less fast-paced speed. The second semester I did the teaching internship, and although at first going into it I wasn’t sure if I would like it because middle schoolers sometimes scare me, and I didn’t know if I’d enjoy teaching. However, I absolutely loved my experience! I got to connect with French middle schoolers, teach them some American culture, learn about pedagogy in France, and work with a French teacher. To sum up my thoughts on Study Abroad: full send and go! I have never heard anyone come back and say they wish they had not gone. The experiences, memories, and everything that comes with living abroad and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone are irreplaceable. Plus who doesn’t want to see more of the world while still getting school credit?!

If you're looking for a French immersion program, look no further than IES Nantes. Aside from the program itself, the city of Nantes is perfect for college students who want to practice their French. It is decent-sized city with tons of restaurants, bars, cool events, and things to do, but it's also not overwhelming and is very easy to navigate. It also has a solid airport that makes it easy and relatively cheap to travel throughout France and Europe. It's also not very touristy, so there are plenty of opportunities to speak French with locals. I found that locals were very willing to practice with me and my friends, and we were also able to make friends with French and international students. The program is INCREDIBLE. All of the staff at IES work so hard to make this an amazing experience for us. They are some of the nicest people I've ever met and will help you with every problem (even problems as crazy as the impending coronavirus!!). The social activities and travel opportunities provided by the program are so varied and immersive--we went to the Loire Valley castles, Normandy, and Mont Saint Michel/ Saint Malo in the two months that I was there. I appreciated that we could take classes both at IES and the local university. The IES classes were so interesting--take gastronomy if you want to try amazing new food and drink each week! The staff help you take pretty much any class you'd want at the university, and I even knew people who took STEM classes there. At the university, I highly recommend the translation class. The professor knows IES well and loves working with IES students, and it's a great way to learn some new vocabulary. IES also recognizes that you are not just here for your studies, so the workload isn't overwhelming. If you work steadily, you'll have plenty of time to take advantage of the city and Europe! IES's homestay program also makes this program so strong. My host family was so welcoming and wonderful, and most of the homestays are located within easy access to everything--I was about a 20-minute walk away and lived right next to the main cathedral. You'll leave with a second family. These were some of the best two months of my life. I wish they weren't cut short by the coronavirus, and I wish I could go back, but I learned so much during my time in France. And I definitely came back more confident in my French. Don't be intimidated about the immersive side of this program--you are required to speak French when at IES and during IES activities, but you'll be glad for it. There were people of all levels in my program, and everyone improved significantly over the semester. Come to Nantes!!

I chose this program to improve my French comprehension and speaking skills, and I was able to do just that. I spoke French every day with my host family, my French and American friends, and the amazing staff at the IES center. I took classes at the local university which offered a unique view of everyday life and student life. There were a lot of nice restaurants and creperies to eat in and a lot of them offered great deals for students. When I wasn't working Nantes had a lot of things to do, including museums, the chateau, shops, the Machines-de-Ile, and much more! Overall I learned a lot of elements about French life and culture that are impossible to learn in the classroom and I'm eternally grateful that I had the opportunity to learn about this culture firsthand! I also got the chance to meet a lot of different people from all around France and the United States that I still keep in touch with. Definitely one of the most awesome things I've done!

The IES Abroad Nantes program was everything I could have asked for and more. It was an amazing opportunity to immerse myself in the culture and the language, while earning credits towards my degree at my home university. My program had the added option to do a pedagogical internship in a local middle school helping teach the students English. I loved every minute of it and it helped inform my future career choice. This program ensures you have every possible opportunity to succeed and flourish in Nantes. The staff, teachers, assistants, and host families are all so kind and great resources if you need support during your time there. The program also leads excursions outside of the city of Nantes, which is a great opportunity to see more of the Loire Valley and France in general, they are a part of the program cost and a great bonding experience for you and your fellow classmates. I have returned home with some friends who I know I will be close with for life and the memories we made together in this program are what brought us together. I cannot recommend this program highly enough, it was seriously the best semester ever!

IES is a great organization to study abroad with and Nantes, specifically, is an awesome city to be in. These factors combined, it was a fantastic semester. IES provides a lot of assistance with the Visa process, homestay situation, picking classes, and taking trips around Nantes (such as wineries and castles). Nantes itself is a really cute city-- it has a hidden culture of music and art, and is teeming with young people, thanks to the University of Nantes network. I took four classes at the IES abroad center (so with other Americans in the program), one class at the University of Nantes, and one class at the local Fine Arts school. My IES classes were my favorite, because some were just four people, and never more than 15. The professors are all native French speakers from the Nantes region who are passionate about what they teach and want to bring you out into the community. For example, in my Art History class, we took a field trip to a covered mall (Passage Pommeraye) downtown to study the architecture, and in my Sociology class we sat in on a public trial. All these courses were in French, which is the aspect I was most worried about prior to the program, but which ended up being very positive. When I arrived at IES I quickly realized that people in the program have many different levels of French, which is great. There is a place for everyone, whether you're near-fluent or have only taken a few French classes. I also partook in the teaching internship in a local school. I was an English teaching assistant at a middle/high school, where four hours a week I taught/assisted in the classroom. That was also a great experience that I highly recommend. If you love galettes (savory crêpes), mild weather, kind people, and a new adventure everyday... Nantes is your place to go.

This program challenged me to grow immensely in my language speaking and comprehension skills, as well as my understanding of the French culture. Being that all my classes were in French and I only spoke French with my host family, I was definitely pushed out of my comfort zone, but the support of the IES abroad staff and host family helped me adjust and grow confidence in my new environment. I enjoyed making new study abroad friends, as well as French friends outside of the program. I learned a lot about France from the classes I took, as they touched on an array of topics from politics and religion, to food and customs, to slang and pop culture. One aspect that I would say really made my study abroad experience was my host family. We would go on trips, do different activities together, and have conversations where I learned about their life experiences, interests, and beliefs. They really made me feel like family, and the connection I made with them is something I cherish and I want to maintain. This program gave me new connections and great memories that I can take with me, and I'm glad I took part in it.

I am so glad that I spent my semester in Nantes! It was truly an unforgettable experience. Going into the semester, I was definitely a little apprehensive because I wasn't sure how well I would do immersed in the language, but after a while, I totally got the hang of things! I chose to stay in a homestay and that combined with the immersive schooling really pushed me to become a better French speaker. It was definitely one of the best decisions I have made and I miss sitting at cafes with my friends all the time!

Studying abroad in Nantes, France with IES is one of the best decisions I could have made. IES takes care of its students from the moment you are accepted to study abroad with them. Upon arrival, they welcome you with wide smiles and ensure a smooth transition to a new French life by having about ten days of orientation before classes begin. Even after the orientation period, staff members work to make sure students are enjoying their experience by asking you how you’re feeling or how your homestay is going. IES goes further than giving students a good education by providing students with the opportunity to engage in cultural events that really allow you to get to know the city. Students are also able to make plenty of French friends by going to the Club de Conversation and speaking to French students in English and French. It is truly a fully immersive experience! By the time you leave, your French will have greatly improved and you will truly feel like a Nantais(e)!

My experience abroad challenged me in the most rewarding ways. Coming from a small town, I learned how to live in a city. I had the opportunity to learn a new language and engage myself in the local culture and community. The city of Nantes has great food, interesting museums, bountiful history, and kind people. I look forward to visiting there sometime in the future to visit one of my professors or my host family!

I absolutely loved my semester with IES Nantes! This program is great for anyone trying to improve their French because it is so immersive: you live with a host family, all of your classes are in French, and most people doing the program with you have a passion for French! There are copious opportunities to practice your French in Nantes, a vibrant city that I grew to love. This program also has a great staff who really go the extra mile to help you become integrated and happy in France. I had some of the best four months of my life with IES Nantes and I would strongly recommend this program to anyone who has a passion for French or who wants to have an authentic cultural experience!

One thing I really appreciated about the IES Nantes program is how well they facilitated the growth of a close-knit community among the students in the program. I definitely didn't get to know everyone, but I made so many more friends than I expected to just by making meals together in the program center kitchen, hanging out (and sometimes jamming out) in the salon, and exploring Nantes together during/after program outings. They also host a conversion club that allows you to get to know other French students. I ended the semester with so many new friends. The only housing option available was homestay, but I feel like they did a good job of offering a variety of different homestays to accommodate people's different needs. Some people were with families with kids, some were with families with young adult kids that were the same age as them, some of them were just with one person. I felt incredibly well matched with my family and felt right at home with them. The program staff were really invested in getting to know the host families too and letting them get involved in the program. Some host parents would even come to the program center to host french cooking workshops! IES also had phenomenal staff! It can be hard when you're trying to communicate about housing, academics, and other aspects of life abroad in your second language, but the staff were always so kind, approachable, and willing to listen. Everyone in the program started at different levels in their French, and by the end we had all grown so much. The staff and professors were able to meet each of us where we were at with our French and work with us over the course of the semester as our language skills progressed. By the end of the semester, I was so proud of the work I had done and all that I had accomplished, both in my classes and in my day to day life ~en français~. I'm so glad to have chosen to study in Nantes, because I absolutely fell in love with the city! There was always plenty to do around town, but it never felt as overwhelming or as crowded as I was worried the city would. Nantes is no where near as touristy as Paris is, so you really will be practicing French with every local you meet. There are plenty of cool places nearby worth exploring, and travel from Nantes is very easy. Though I was perfectly happy staying in town for most of the semester. From program outings to events throughout the city, there was never a shortage of fun things to do and amazing cultural experiences to partake in!

When I first arrived in Nantes after an exhausting day of travel, I was immediately greeted by IES staff and other students. At first every one was extremely nervous to get to know one another, but this quickly changed. In a city where no one knew my native language, I was always eager to speak to students in English. Throughout the semester, my dependency on English lessened day by day thanks to the students, staff, my friends, my host family, and everyone else I met. My goal before I let was increase my language skills as much as possible and IES made this goal achievable. Their golden rule, "En francais, s'il vous plait" was so challenging for me, but is one of the main reasons I feel as if gained as much knowledge and fluency as I did. The professors, both at IES center and at the University of Nantes were patient and willing to help you. They understood how difficult it was to learn in another language but never doubted you. They pushed you and expected you to give high results. The most intimidating aspect of going abroad became second nature to me. Every weekend, there were activities, excursions, and field trips to fill my days with. From ice skating to soccer games to trips to Bordeaux, I was constantly busy and embracing the culture surrounding me. Every week, we could attend a conversation club where I could meet other French students and practice our language skills. Every day, I could learn more about France's culture with the help of my host family, one of the best aspects of studying abroad. My host family became a second family to me. I explored the coast of France, ate dinner every night, asked for advice, attended parties and the movies, and much more with them. I can not imagine how different my experience would have been without a host family. Finally, I could not end this review without talking about how amazing the city of Nantes is. Smaller than Paris, but big enough to always find something new, Nantes really is the ideal city. With so much French history, so many boulangeries, landmarks, and art, I fell in love with the city. The IES center is located next to a beautiful little park that is always filled with people. If you walk a little farther, you are in the heart of the city where you can see the Opera house, one of the most historical restaurants, La Cigale, and a fountain (something that seems to be in the center of every circle!). With plenty of shops, restaurants, and nightlife, I was always able to fill my days with new and exciting things to do. I was fortunate to visit so many different cities, both in and outside of France and although I loved so many of them, I was always so happy to come back to what I considered home for four months in Nantes.

I remember being terrified upon arriving in Nantes. I showed up at the program building, which I would later grow to love, and I met a host of other students, each one of us more or less quiet, just waiting for our host families to come pick us up. The first few days passed like you would expect, everyone saying their names over and over, trying to talk to as many people as possible, and sharing all kinds of information about their lives back in the US and about what their host families here in Nantes are like. IES took us on all kinds of trips, especially at the start, and little by little we became as comfortable as if we had spent years with each other. Many a conversation was had around the little table in the kitchen, or the big mass of tables in the library, and I made friends in Nantes who I still talk to and am close with despite the fact that we are now spread out all over the US and France. My host family, especially, was one of the most impactful parts of my time in France. I was far more sad, and full of tears, on the day I left France and my host family, than on the day I said goodbye to my real family, knowing I would see them in only four short months. I was blessed in my host family to have my mom, dad, three younger sisters, a cat and a dog, and each one of them welcomed me as if I was some long-lost member of the family, coming back from a lengthy trip. I fit into their life and routine well, and I could talk to each of them about anything. IES couldn't have done a better job placing students in their host families. The classes I took, both with IES and at the University, were challenging, but well-worth every minute. And for every difficulty there was a tutor, or a friend, or the teacher standing by to help in any way they could. And though I had my worries about being comfortable with the language before arriving, every fear was quelled within little time of arriving. There is a learning curve, and there will be adjustments, but the fact that everyone in your sphere wants to help you, coupled with the fact that simply being immersed in the language will help you to learn quicker than you ever knew, makes everything seem all the easier. I loved my semester in Nantes more than I even realized I could before arriving there, and I wouldn't change it for anything. I came home with lifelong friends, knowledge of a beautiful culture and country that I never imagined I would understand so well, memories that will say with me as long as I am still going, and skills in a language that I will be able to use for the rest of my life.

IES gave me the opportunity to be a teacher at a local middle school in Nantes, France. Thanks to this program, I got to teach English to nearly fifty French students for a semester and explore a potential career path. This internship gave me more insight as to what I would like to do as a career through a simple four hours of teaching per week, not including lesson planning. I would not have had such an incredible opportunity without the connections and help of my IES administration team.

This program is really an excellent way to experience France with full language immersion. All classes are in French and speaking in French in the center is a requirement. A large variety of classes is offered, from French cuisine to the history or France and the United Nations. The staff is fantastic and extremely helpful. The city of Nantes itself is fantastic: there's lots of things to see and do and I regret not exploring the city more. My experience with IES Abroad and in Nantes is unparalleled with any other and I'm very fortunate to have had this opportunity.

This program advertises that you'll be immersed in French language and culture, and that is 100% true. But it's impossible to describe what all you'll get from this program. The staff at IES Nantes are completely committed to making your stay in France the best possible. Anything you are worried about, they are there for you & willing to listen. The program provides the perfect mixture of a feeling of home in a foreign country, while also challenging you to go outside of your comfort zone. Plus, there's more crêperies in Nantes than you could possibly wish for!

The staff and professors exceeded any expectations that I held for an abroad program. I can only ever come up with cheesy, overused adjectives to describe my experience: amazing, unbelievable, magnificent. But it was. IES is a fantastic program.

I use the title to describe my experience in only six words. The thing is the experience really takes up more words than what I can write. The program is nicely set up, super organized, you meet other American students from different parts of the country, you actually speak French most of the time (Nantes is a city with hardly any American tourists), and your host family will give you an idea of how French culture looks in a traditional sense. IES staff is extremely helpful (I miss them so much), there are social events organized every week by the social coordinator, and there is also opportunities to take courses in the local university (which I recommend), taking a gastronomy course, and taking a teaching internship to teach English in French schools. All these opportunities are what make IES Nantes a dream come true!

This program was absolutely amazing! My french improved immensely, I made close friends that I still keep in touch with, and fell in love with Nantes, so much so all I want to do is go back! The staff here are 100% dedicated to the students, going above and beyond to make sure each student has an excellent experience. The homestay is a great opportunity and I loved my host family. The professors are all very understanding of the language barrier that exists, but also push you to improve. The city is gorgeous and there is always something interesting going on. The social coordinator also makes sure students know when there is an event and takes them there. Overall, a fantastic program that I would recommend to anyone hoping to improve their French and wanting an unforgettable semester!

If you're looking to truly immerse yourself in french language and culture, this is the program for you. Nantes is the perfect city for a study abroad semester: it is large and young enough that there is always something fun to do, yet small enough to truly feel like home. The people are kind and generous and (unlike what you may find in more touristy study abroad destinations) always speak french back! The IES program itself makes sure that you have the opportunity to make the most out of your time here, with plenty of weekday city social events, weekend trips exploring the local region, and integration with french students at the local university through classes, conversation clubs, or other extracurriculars. I loved having the option to take all my courses– even psychology– in french. If you’re pursuing an education beyond french language or the humanities, however, be forewarned that there may only be 1 or 2 class options offered at the local university. Another potential limitation is that your only housing option is a homestay, but don’t let that deter you! My host family was perhaps my favorite aspect of this program and where I learned the most. I met friends for life here– both in american and french students as well as in my host family– and am already counting down the days until I can go back!

This past fall I had the opportunity to study abroad in Nantes, France though IES abroad. The overall experience was more than I could imagine. I got to travel in and around France, as well as the rest Europe. I learned a lot about myself and my french improved immensely. I also got to meet new people and stayed with an amazing host family who made me feel welcome in their home.

Nantes is the perfect city to study abroad in, and IES is the perfect program to go through. I loved Nantes because it wasn't super touristy like Paris, but it was a big enough city that there were always things to do and places to see. It was also relatively easy to travel from as it has its own airport and is a short TGV ride from Paris. I'd never even heard of Nantes before I applied to the IES Program, but it was perfect because I spent my entire semester exploring this new city, which I now call my second home. The 3 tram lines, the île, le grand éléfant, the université de Nantes, all the little cafés and restaurants in Bouffay, the chateau, the cathedral, the christmas markets (for fall semester students) - Nantes just has so much to offer. IES also gave me everything I was looking for and more in a study abroad program: the opportunity to live in a french homestay, take all my courses (which were all super interesting) in french and in a wonderful facility located 5 minutes from downtown, be in a perfectly sized program (my semester had 40 kids), attend included field trips to les Châteaux de la Loire and Tours, , travel around Europe on the weekends and over the break, and get to know local French students at the university and through conversation club at the IES Center. If any of those events sound like things you might be interested in, please, please look into applying to IES Nantes! I would recommend this program to anyone and everyone looking for a true study abroad experience in France, and would do it all over again myself in a heartbeat!

My Nantes experience far exceeded any of my expectations. The city itself is beautiful and has such great energy, and with a small anglophone presence it's the perfect place for French immersion. My French improved so much, especially through speaking with my host family, which was one of the biggest highlights for me: they were so sweet to me, made me feel welcome right away, and my host mom made such amazing food! The courses at IES were fun and engaging--I especially loved the art history course I took--and the professors were overall tuned into the level of French students had. The staff at the IES are so sweet, and the center provides a kind of home base for its students. I also got to take classes at the university, which was challenging but really fun especially because it led to me making French friends. I met so many great people and some of my favorite memories are just exploring and hanging out in centreville with other IES students. Studying in Nantes was an amazing experience for me and I definitely found a second home there. IES and often the host families provide you with guidance, but at the same time you are independent and free to explore as you wish.

My semester abroad in Nantes was incredible and I can't wait for the day I can go back and visit again. The IES program described itself as a full French immersion program, and that is definitely the kind of experience I received. All of my classes were in French, which forced me to become more and more familiar with the French language, culture, and history. The "French only" rule at the center helped push us out of our comfort zone and forced us to express ourselves in French, even if it meant using simplified terms or looking up words in an English-French dictionary from time to time. This program highly recommends staying with a home stay, which I also recommend. My home stay family was just a grandmother, but the time spent with her was incredibly valuable to me. We would chat about politics or cultural differences after dinner, and she would often ask me questions about English translations since she taught English lessons. My conversations with her improved my French comprehension and vocabulary immensely. The staff at the IES center were amazing. They were clearly passionate about the subjects they taught, and it was obvious that they were patient enough to try and understand our not-so-perfect French, which gave us much needed confidence. IES offers a wide range of classes, but if you're looking for something they don't offer, it is still easy to take classes at the university instead of at the center. The curriculum offered was very thorough and was probably the source of most of my improvements in the French language, in terms of increasing my vocabulary and understanding of grammatical rules. The amount of students at IRS during my semester was fairly smaller than usual, but the social life did not make it seem that way. During orientation, the staff gave us more than enough opportunities to make friends that will last beyond our stay in France. The field trips included with the program also helped create these friendships and by the end of the semester, it saddened me to see all of my classmates leave. Overall, the IES Nantes program was fantastic and I could not think of one thing that could be improved. If you're looking for a true French immersion program, this is the only one you will need.

I really enjoyed my time studying in Nantes this past semester. The program staff are very helpful and welcoming and are dedicated to immersing us in the French language and culture. I loved my host family and their delicious home cooked meals, exploring Nantes (not too big a city, not too small), and making friends. I took three classes at IES and two classes at the university of Nantes and although they were not of the same academic rigor that I am used to, I improved my french a lot. I was frustrated by the amount of english that was spoken in the program center by americans on the program, so if you want a full French immersion on this program, it will take a lot of self-motivation (since you will mostly be with other Americans on a day-to-day basis). Overall, I loved my experiences, learned a lot, and will always cherish my time in Nantes.

My experience in Nantes, France was exactly what I was looking for from my study abroad experience. Going into studying in France, I wanted to be fully immersed in French culture and language, and that is exactly what IES allowed me to do. All of the staff were very involved and wanted to ensure that you had a good experience in all aspects; academics, social life, & home-stay. They provided the students with the tools they needed to fully immerse themselves, such as offering tutoring opportunities, baby sitting opportunities, or chances to meet local french university students. They paid extra special attention to ensuring that everyone was happy with their host family experience. The thing that I think sets this program apart is the quality of their host families. A lot of the host families have been having students for years and they treat their students more like family than just a boarder. My French dramatically improved by the end of the program, and that was thanks to living with a host family, taking all of my classes in french, and speaking in French at the IES center. If you are looking to improve your french and learn more about french culture, this is definitely the program for you!

IES Nantes was the perfect program in one of the best French cities to help develop both my skill of the French language, but also my appreciation for French culture. From the get go IES staff was always there to help out with any academic issues or just normal concerns about how do I do this in France. They always knew exactly how to help each student with their problems, whether it be how do I work this phone to what should I do this weekend. They also found the best teachers to give a variety of interesting classes, and walked people through signing up at the local French university if you wanted to do that too. Every class, from Grammar to history to Gastronomy, was taught fully in French. There was no coddling of the English at the center, which really only helped us in the end, especially in class. My practical skills and comprehension of the French language definitely improved throughout the semester, as did my appreciation for the French style of education. My host mother, an adorable grandmother, also greatly helped me with settling into French culture. From conversing over a home-cooked meal to doing errands around the neighborhood she showed me how they French live. The best part of the entire semester though, was Nantes itself. There is just so much you can do and explore in this city, especially with a transit pass and easily accessible public transportation. From the historic chateau/museum, to the island of machines, or even to any of the numerous gardens, Nantes has something for everyone and is an experience that will change your life.

Where do I start? First of all, I think I should comment on my French host family. I had five siblings, along with my mom and my dad. I was a bit shy at first, but having that many people in one house (and it was decently sized!) meant there was always someone for me to talk to. I felt like they were really family before the first month was even done, and I was so grateful to have that connection with them. We did a lot (and I mean a LOT) of things together, which was in part nice because they lived the farthest away from the Center. That being said, it was not at all a problem to commute to visit other friends or the Center-- the tram and bus stops were super close by! My friends at IES were very fun to hang out with, and I definitely enjoyed going to classes with them. I took all my classes at IES and found it to be very fulfilling, but I know that several of my pals also took classes both at IES and at the local university and enjoyed that, too. So just know that you have options! The professors were so cool to learn from and to talk to in general, and they often afforded me a new perspective and insight into what we were learning in class and how to translate that into the real world. I also truly enjoyed the city-- as someone who grew up in the country and then chose to attend college in a city of 10,000, I must admit that I was a little afraid of big city life at first. However, I was pleasantly surprised! Nantes was just big enough that you always felt like you were on the brink of discovering something new. Yet, it was small enough that I could still connect with people (like the owners of the boulangerie that I frequented... #yay for my sweet tooth!). Truthfully, going to Nantes with IES Abroad was a fabulous experience and one that will continue to shape the rest of my life!

I can't imagine that there exists a more perfect study abroad program than IES Nantes. From the staff, to the building, to the courses it was everything that I had hoped and more. Nantes is an absolutely amazing city, big enough that there is always something to do, but not so big that I felt like I couldn't escape from the hustle and bustle. I was looking for a city where I would be forced to use my French, and Nantes was certainly that city. Everyone was kind and patient, and most of the time I couldn't have resorted to English even if I had wanted to. The IES abroad center was also a highlight of my trip, the staff was so kind and helpful, and I didn't feel that there was a problem I couldn't take to them. There were also assistants closer to the age of the students that were available to help with academics, but also to act as friends and mentors when adapting to everyday life in France. Courses at IES were interesting and at a very appropriate difficulty level, but challenged you to continually improve. The professors were always extremely helpful and always had the best interest of the students in mind. There is also an option to take classes at the local university which is a great way to get an idea of what a French classroom is really like, and to try challenge yourself to keep up with a French professor working through material at a normal speed. The homestay experience was by far my favorite aspect of the entire program. Each family is chosen so carefully and a great deal of effort goes into matching each student with the right family. I felt so welcome in my home and my French improved tenfold because of my family. Entering the program I was looking to find a home away from home, and that is exactly was I found. Overall I would say that if you are looking for a study abroad program in France, Nantes should be at the top of the list, especially if you are looking to improve your French language abilities. I could not be more eager to recommend this program.

I had an absolutely amazing time in Nantes, France through my IES Study Abroad program. My main goal going abroad was to find a program that completely immersed me in the French language and culture. IES's program in Nantes was perfect for that! All of our classes are held in French (you are placed into a French language class of your level or test out of it if you're just that proficient). There was a great variety of courses to choose from within humanities and social sciences. You can also take classes at the local university. The courses were well instructed and well organized for the most part. The academic environment wasn't as rigorous as my home college (thankfully), which allowed for time to explore Nantes and Europe in general while still being academically challenged through the French language and new topics from a French perspective. I'm really interested in sports, and there are tons of options through the university to get involved in classes (excellent way to meet French students too!). My host family was just wonderful. They were so helpful and caring and fun. They taught me a ton about French culture, and my French language skills improved immensely just by having meals with them almost every night and just hanging out together. I would HIGHLY recommend this program to someone looking for an immersive and fun study abroad experience.

I had an incredible time while studying abroad at IES Nantes. It was really a magical experience. The IES staff was supportive with anything and everything that I needed and the language assistants ended up being some of my best friends. I took three classes with IES and two with the university and found that to be a perfect balance for me in terms of having classes with actual French students. IES classes are not as rigorous as I am used to, but that is not to say that I didn't learn a lot while and will take the skills and knowledge that I learned with me through my various academic endeavors and the rest of my life. My French also drastically improved, both through making French friends, and because of IES having a strict "en francais s'il vous plait" policy. It was a very encouraging atmosphere and I felt very comfortable speaking French and being taught how to speak better by making many mistakes. My host family was wonderful. They were some of the best people I've ever had the pleasure of meeting, let alone living with them in their house. I was immediately welcomed into their house as if I were actually part of their family, and they were wonderful in every way possible. Not to mention, I never spoke English with them, and my French drastically improved! The nightly dinners with my host family were simply magical -- I think that this is the memory that I will cherish the most from my study abroad experience. I also loved the way that I was able to learn about the French dining experience as a cultural phenomenon through a real French family. I tried my best to participate in the many cultural activities that were going on in Nantes, but it can be a bit intimidating at times. I was also looking forward to making more French friends, and while I did make a couple, it was hard to approach them in classes. That being said, the IES assistants did an amazing job of introducing us to various events going on in the city, and I did my best to attend every single one of them, which helped a great deal. The city had so much to offer! I can honestly say that IES Nantes was the best experience of my life to date, and I am counting the days until I can go back to Nantes and live there for another extended period of time.

There are only two words I can think of to describe my semester abroad in Nantes: absolutely wonderful. My main reason for selecting this program is that I wanted to immerse myself in the French language and improve my speaking skills as much as possible. From the website and what I'd heard from friends, the Nantes program seemed quite immersive and had everything I was looking for: a homestay component, courses taught in French and the option of taking courses at the local university. I learned so much while I was abroad. My French improved drastically, and I now have a lot more confidence in my own abilities. Since returning I've read entire books in French, and I can even watch Netflix shows in French as well (without subtitles). I would highly recommend this program to anyone who wants a truly difficult but rewarding language immersion program.

IES Abroad changed my life. If you've read and other reviews of this program, you know that there is no better program for French immersion. Between the IES Nantes staff, the professors, the home stay families, and the friendly people of the city, if you're looking for the opportunity to improve your French in 4 or 8 months, this is definitely the place to do it. But this program is about so much more than immersion. It's about spending Sunday's eating a leisurely lunch in the garden, it's about weekend trips to the coast with your host family, it's about afternoon walks along the Erdre, it's about sharing a baguette with your friends on the Cour Cambronne, or enjoying a monaco and some alternative music at the Lieu Unique. There's so much to discover about yourself and Nantes through this program. I highly recommend IES Abroad Nantes if you're looking to truly experience all France and it's people have to offer.

Choosing to participate in the IES Nantes Study Away program was hands down the best decision of my college career. Not only did I grow as an individual, but I grew to appreciate a different culture and language by experiencing and truly living it. The program staff are all amazing, ready to help with any request, big or small. Yet, the most amazing aspect of this program is the homestay program. My host family truly became my family and it took me not even two weeks to start referring to my house in Nantes as 'home'. My experience in Nantes would not have been as positive and life changing without the homestay experience. I would tell any student even questioning about studying away to do it without another hesitation, it changed my life!

The IES Nantes program is perfect for someone wanting to become immersed in the French language and culture! I loved living in the city of Nantes. It was the perfect size with plenty of things to do and quickly felt like home. It is also a very walkable city. The home stay was one of my favorite aspects of the program and was definitely where I made the greatest strides in my language skills. I felt that the classes were very manageable and enjoyed the opportunity to take a class at the local university. I would highly recommend this program to anyone interested in improving their French!

Before I arrived in Nantes, I was not at all confident of my ability to speak French. However, after arriving, I soon forgot about my worries. The IES center in Nantes is well-equipped and made all of us arriving students feel very welcome, as did my host family. The program is conducted entirely in French and students are supposed to speak French at all times (we did speak English a lot, but for the first couple weeks we stayed largely with French and we all improved as a result). Then there was so much to discover and do in Nantes itself, plus the trips that come as part of the program which were all very fun. My favorite was the organized trip to Normandy. Nantes is a charming city with plenty to do and excellent public transport for getting around. It is smaller and easier to cope with than Paris, which made it a less jarring transition. I would love to go back, it is surprising how much Nantes felt like home after only a few months. The worst part about the program is that just as you really start to feel entirely at home you have to go back.

When looking for a study abroad program in a French speaking country, I wanted to have a strong academic program, full cultural immersion, and a teaching internship. I was happy to find everything I wanted in the IES Study Abroad program in Nantes. Besides all these three that I was looking for, Nantes is a smaller city than Paris but still has enough to do during the semester. It was a perfect city for study abroad, definitely a plus for me.

I could not have imagined a better study abroad experience after being in France with IES Nantes. For me, study abroad began primarily as an opportunity to improve my French. However, soon after my arrival in Nantes, I realized that I would gain much more than I expected. The staff at IES Nantes was welcoming and hospitable, knowing each and every student as we walked in the door. It felt like walking into a new home as I entered the quaint IES center for the first time. Throughout the semester, the staff continued to be supportive, helpful, and just enjoyable to be around. My biggest worry with my decision to go to Nantes was the size of the city and the housing situation. I feared that Nantes would be too small and leave me with little to do other than study and sit around. After a few short weeks, I knew that this city was the perfect size, and by the end of the semester I was left rushing around with a list of activities to accomplish. The opportunity to live in a homestay is now one of the most appealing factors of this program. My host family, like many others, made me feel like a part of their family and created a second home for me. They introduced me to their friends, their city, and their amazing culture through language and everyday life. I found that the academics at IES Nantes challenged me, but introduced me to new course subjects that were interesting, well taught, and enlightening. The professors and small class sizes reminded me of my own college, making me feel well adjusted. Spending four months with IES Nantes changed my life, led me to a second family that I will always hold dear to my heart, and gave me friends and memories that I will cherish for a lifetime.

IES Abroad Nantes is the perfect program for anyone looking to be fully immersed in French language and culture. Every student lives with a French host family, which allows them to learn about French culture firsthand, and requires them to practice their language skills on a daily basis. I enjoyed trying all sorts of local foods and discussing the differences between typical American and French lifestyles with my family. The program also gives students the chance to study at both the IES Center and the local university in Nantes, and I especially enjoyed the opportunity to complete a teaching internship in the local schools. The program is very well established, so health and safety measures are well developed, and the IES Center in Nantes provides a whole host of extracurricular activities that really enhanced my semester abroad. If you are like me and don't want to live in a city as massive as Paris but would like to study in France, take a look at IES Nantes!

Nantes was not originally my first choice as a study abroad program, it was more of an only option decision. However, I can honestly say that I am so glad I studied abroad with IES in Nantes. The program was an experience that was better than I ever could have imagined. It is very well organized and well run and they offer a lot of good classes with very knowledgeable faculty. The French assistants that are available to help and plan social events etc. are an incredible part of the program and really great resource for academic help as well as any questions about French life more generally. If students want they are able to take classes with the local university. IES also took us on field trips that really gave you a good sense of the French culture and important historical sites. I can only speak to my host family experience, but mine was a very positive one. I lived with an older couple who welcomed me into their own without hesitation and were quick to help me improve my French and better understand the culture. Nantes is also a really fun city with lots to do and easy to navigate. And if you are looking to travel around, its very easy to do so from Nantes. Like I said, Nantes wasn't my first choice, but I can honestly say it was not only the right one, but I think the best possible choice and experience.

I was extremely impressed with IES Study in Nantes and my stay there ended up being some of the best five months of my life. The program is very well organized and the staff are professional, enthusiastic, and truly care about the students. They made it clear that they were there to help us and they were all very approachable. All of the assistants were great-our TA went out of her way to answer our questions and help with our homework assignments and we never had a lack of planned activities. We were provided with everything we needed both physically in the form of our school center and mentally in the form of information and preparation. They offered a nice variety of courses and one had the option of taking courses at the University of Nantes of they were so inclined. Both through my IES courses and my course at the university, I greatly improved my French and learned so much about their education system. The four fieldtrips that were included in the program were also well-organized, fun, and took us to places that we greatly enjoyed and probably would never have gotten to on our own. I personally absolutely loved my homestay. My host family and I got along so well! Not only did they make sure I had everything I needed, but they really cared about me and we enjoyed spending time together. They were very inclusive with me and by the end of the semester we were all so sad that I had to leave! We still keep in contact and plan to for years to come. There was no better way to learn the French language and culture than with my host family! I was lucky to go the semester that I did because I ended up with a wonderful group of peers. We all got along really well and making friends was never an issue! With all of the wonderful experiences I had, I hardly felt homesick at all! I have nothing but positive things to say about my time in Nantes! Overall, my semester abroad through IES Study in Nantes was very educational and a great adventure! I was able to make Nantes my home away from home and hope that future students will have just as successful of a semester!

If you're looking for a French language-immersive program, this is it! I loved my semester in Nantes. The IES staff are exceptional and experienced, and I felt very immersed in my host culture. My host mom was fantastic, the city was a perfect size (big but not touristy!), and I met lots of wonderful friends! The Nantes program is a very tight-knit community. Do not hesitate---enroll in this program!

IES Abroad Nantes is an amazing program! Specifically, the host families and the program/university classes are two things I will highlight that were a huge part of everyone's day-to-day experiences. The host families are your home base: they really do welcome you in with open arms (which is rather difficult when you think about it, inviting an almost complete stranger into your home!) and want to help you immerse into the French culture. Most nights, I had dinner with my host mom and it was the perfect opportunity for me to speak with her and for me, those dinners were the main reason for the improvement in my French communication skills. The program offers its own classes, but also allows you to take courses at the local universities. I split my course load between the program and the local university: at first, the classes at the local university were difficult, because the professors spoke rather quickly, but I got used to it after a few weeks (as most people did once our French improved) and began to enjoy taking classes that I would not have thought about taking at my home university! One thing I wish I had done differently was I wish I had talked to more French students at the local university. From my own experiences and what I heard from previous students, it is rather difficult to speak to them, because it is intimidating trying to speak to a native French speaker with his or her friend group who have probably been friends for years. However, once you make a French friend, you become very close and have a bond that you might not have with friends at your home university.

This past semester was possibly the best semester of my life so far. I initially chose IES Nantes for my study abroad over other programs because as someone who had never taken french until college, and never spoke french outside of the classroom, I wanted to be completely immersed in the language and I really wanted a chance to improve my french. I wanted an experience that would challenge me and immerse me in the french culture but still offered support for students. The IES program did an amazing job of exceeding my expectations. Each student is placed with a host family. This was extremely useful when you needed advice on where to go in Nantes, and it was also helpful because you were able to experience daily life in France, as a typical french person. My host mother was exceptional and she offered me tons of advice and amazing food that I wouldn't trade for the world. My conversations with her improved my french and I was able to learn much more from her about french culture that I would've if I had just stayed in a dorm and lived with other students. I also loved the academic options at IES. All of the classes at the center are taught in french by french professors and you also have the opportunity to take classes at the university. The staff was very friendly and supportive, and they were always willing to help if there was a problem. The program is well-run and very organized and the excursions they planned for us were fun and educational. I absolutely loved Nantes; it's a beautiful city. It is smaller than Paris and very little English is spoken, which forces you to speak in french all the time. It has a great public transportation system and is very walkable. It's big enough so that there's always something to do, but small enough so that you don't feel overwhelmed. Its also very easy to take weekend trips to Paris which is something that a lot of people in the program did. Overall it was a fulfilling experience and I can't wait to return to Nantes.

I was very impressed with the IES Nantes program. The staff was friendly and incredibly efficient, always there to help students with any questions or concerns they may have. They did an excellent job during orientation week of explaining everything you could possibly need to know to have a successful semester abroad. The center was well situated in the city and had plenty of nice classrooms and common spaces. I thoroughly enjoyed all of the trips and activities that the program sponsored, my favorite of which was the trip to St. Malo and its beautiful beach. Nantes is in such a beautiful region of France, right between rugged Brittany and the Loire River Valley, there are plenty of picturesque places to visit just a short train ride away. I was quite impressed with the quality of the courses and instructors that the center had to offer and felt that my French improved immensely over the course of the semester. Overall, this a was a formative and fulfilling experience that I will remember for the rest of my life.

I absolutely loved my time in Nantes. The staff was friendly and helpful, I forged a lasting bond with my host family and made friends I will never forget. The city is so easy to get around in with the public transportation system. It is a charming city, big enough that something was always happening but small enough that I was able to get to know it well in just one semester. It was beautiful, and very walkable.

Nantes is a beautiful city and I think a great place to study abroad if your goal is to improve your language skills. While people do speak English to you on occasion, I found it to be true far less in Nantes than in other areas of France. Living in a host family is a key part to this program. The opportunity to take classes at the local university with actual french students and professors is a part of IES Nantes; however, many choose to take all their classes within the program. While I think their curriculum is very helpful in improving your academic french (reading literature and writing essays/research papers) it's hard to improve your conversational french when the majority of people in the building are other Americans who speak french. Speaking french in the school is a requirement in the building but when you're speaking to people who you share a first language with in another language you can get them to understand your meaning through direct translation. So I felt I made most of my improvements in this area with my host family. A lot of the host families have been hosting students for years so they're very understanding and great. The staff members are always open to helping with any problems or misunderstandings that may arise between the students and host families. Overall, I think the experience was incredible and the friendships I made their will last a lifetime. A couple weeks back in the United States, and I already can't wait to visit Nantes again.

When I first started planning my semester in France, I was convinced that I wanted to study abroad in Paris because, well-- it's Paris! Looking back on my experience now, I could not be happier that I chose Nantes instead. I truly believe that I gained so much more from living in a smaller city where English is not commonly spoken than I would have in a more international city like Paris. While I did enjoy a weekend trip to Paris, returning to Nantes felt like coming home. What really stands out in my mind about the IES Nantes program is the opportunity it presents for complete immersion in the French language. All students are placed in a homestay with a French family, and many of these families have been hosting American students for years. While living with a host family can be a bit uncomfortable in the beginning, the adjustment process is just another part of the experience and is well worth the linguistic and cultural benefits of being part of a French family. The post-dinner conversations I had with my host mother were some of the best learning experiences for me as far as improving my speaking skills and gaining a better understanding of French culture. She even made me a little book filled with my favorite recipes of hers when I left at the end of the semester so I can try to replicate her wonderful cooking! The IES Nantes center also has a French-only policy. All of the classes are taught in French and students are required to speak French when in the building and on IES excursions. One of the reasons I chose to study in France was that I wanted to really focus on improving my language skills, so this aspect of the Nantes program was wonderful. Unfortunately, not all of the students were so eager to speak exclusively French, so by the end of the program, almost everyone was speaking a lot of English, which was a bit disappointing for me. That being said, there were always opportunities to practice French, whether at the university, with locals, or with a host family. IES also does an amazing job of creating a sense of community among its students and staff. The directors were so supportive and helpful and because it's a relatively small program, it's easy to get to know the other American students. I met some of the most wonderful people and I truly felt at home in the IES center. I absolutely recommend this program to anyone looking to study in France!

I chose IES Nantes because I was looking for a program with classes entirely in French, the option to enroll at the local university, homestays, and lots of extracurricular opportunities. I was not disappointed. All of the classes at the IES center in Nantes are taught in French by French professors, but they are used to teaching American students so the course structure and expectations somewhat more American. If you're looking for a challenge, it's easy to enroll in courses at the Université de Nantes. All IES Nantes students are housed in homestays, and I had a fantastic experience with my host family. We got really close, still keep in touch, and I'm looking forward to visiting them as soon as I can! Nantes also has a lot of opportunities to get involved in the community. I joined a couple of bands, but other students joined choirs, the Catholic student association, soccer clubs, etc. It was a fun, genuine way to meet other French students--and to work on my French! I had a great year and I'm really happy with my choice of program.

Whenever people ask what defined my study abroad experience, I always answer, "the people." At IES Nantes I met some of the most interesting, adventurous, kind, and open-minded people I've ever known. The program ranges from 50-80 students a semester, so I connected with just about everyone over the course of four months. The staff worked extremely hard to foster a sense of community and culture for us, celebrating everyone's who had a birthday abroad and even the Teaching Assistants spent time with us outside of their paid hours. The IES building is located in the heart of downtown, just one block from the beautiful Place Graslin. We'd often just sit outside on the steps of the Opera house, people watching and munching on chocolate croissants (you can't go more than two blocks without seeing a bakery). Many students, like myself, have to decide between the IES Paris program and IES Nantes. To these students, I say go to Nantes. Paris is stunning, but I visited towards the end of my semester abroad, when I was fairly proficient in French, but waiters, vendors, taxi drivers all hear your accent and it's easier for them to speak English. In Nantes, fewer people know English and it really helps to advance your French speaking skills. Plus, Paris is 3 hours away by Train; you can go every weekend if you want.

Nantes was a wonderful place to spend an academic year abroad. The city lacks the glamour of larger study abroad destinations like Paris, but Nantes is absolutely full of museums, sports stadiums, performing arts spaces, and unique, hole-in-the-wall bars and clubs. Nantes is a city with a personality. The centre ville is really unique and quaint, while the areas surrounding the city are very rural and perfect for jogging, football, and water sports. Academically, the program was challenging but not overwhelming. Professors were really nice and accommodating. My host family soon became a true, second family. Nantes is an amazing place to learn French, don't come expecting to speak English, there is no substitute for speaking French in Nantes. But you will progress very quickly.

IES abroad is a wonderful program. My main objective going abroad for the Fall was to become more proficient in french. The IES classes combined with the classes IES helped me to find at a French university helped with this goal. The IES host families are also really amazing. IES vets the families carefully and then comes back to the same families year after year, so my host family was familiar with both American students and IES. The host families are required to eat dinner with the students at least three times a week (although mine ate with me more often). This also helped with language immersion. For people who wanted to chill out and not worry about the language as much, IES also provided three day weekends (every week) for travel and the IES staff helped people figure out travel arrangements that were inexpensive and safe. The only downside I experienced with IES is that it is not a very international study abroad program, so everyone is American. This leads to more people speaking English with each other than I would have liked. Overall, IES was an amazing program.

I knew I wanted to study abroad in France, and upon meeting with my French professor, this was the first program he recommended for full immersion. The courses are all in French, and you live with a French family so there aren't many opportunities to speak English--and that's a good thing. Before you know it, you're thinking in French and it feels amazing. The staff at the Center are caring and kind and can help you with basically anything you need.

Most of my best memories from study abroad revolve around my incredible host family. My favorite memory is when I taught my elementary-aged host sisters how to bake American-style Christmas cookies. They were thrilled by the reindeer cookie cutters I found and they loved the idea of decorating their creations with sprinkles. We ate the cookies for dinner that night and everyone raved about them. I loved sharing one of my family's traditions with them. I chose my program because I wanted to be fully immersed in the French language. I lived with a host family in a house. I had four young host siblings and two host parents.

I had the most memorable experiences with my host family. They taught me so much about the culture, and were always there when I had questions. I spent some time with them on the west coast of France, and it was my most memorable experience. I chose IES Nantes because I wanted a smaller city than Paris, and Nantes seemed like the perfect place. I had also met someone who lived in Nantes and she persuaded me that it is an awesome place, and she was right! I stayed with a host family during my time there.

Nantes is one of the most amazing cities I have ever been to. It's beautiful and full of so much culture. It has the best of French culture and Bretagne's culture and is a manageable size. This is a great city to study in for those who truly want to be immersed in the French language. IES does a great job of helping students get to know the area through field trips and subsidizing events in the city. There is a lot of support from the staff and French teaching assistants and there are opportunities to get involved in the life of the French university through coursework and extracurricular activities.

My time with IES Abroad was wonderful. I had a wonderful host family that I felt right at home with from the second I arrived. IES does a phenomenal job in placing you with families that will benefit you the most during your time abroad, and they make you feel comfortable. Taking classes with IES was also a great experience. The professors were extremely helpful, and I learned a lot in my time there. The IES center was also a wonderful place. If you had questions, there were a lot staff members you could go to, and they always made sure that your time there was as exciting and beneficial as possible. There were always activities for the students to participate in, we went on numerous trips to different places in France, and got to know one another really well. There was never a dull moment with IES Abroad, and if I could do it over, I would definitely choose this program again.

Our end-of-program Christmas farewell party was coming to a close, where we had mingled with our IES professors and exchanged gifts with fellow students. We all decided to pack into the music room and sing Christmas carols while one of my best friends from the program played the piano. Even though we sang in English, our French teachers attempted to sing along. Laughing and singing out of tune, it felt like a family to me. My situation was a bit of an outlier--my dad took a sabbatical year and got a position at the University of Toulouse. I ended up taking my study abroad year a year earlier because of it, even though I was always planning on studying abroad. I love traveling, and I love languages. So the perfect opportunity for me to combine those two things was to go abroad to a French-speaking country. I was living with a host family in an apartment a few minutes from the city center by bus. I had a host mom, dad, 2 sisters, and 2 brothers, (although only 1 sister was still living at home). My host family and I took a while to warm up to each other, but it ended up being a perfectly fine living situation.

One of my most memorable experiences was going to the Cemetery with my host family for All Saint's Day. It is a French tradition to come to the cemetery to put chrysanthemums in front of their family tombs. This is a part of family life that you might not get to see as a tourist. My home school offered several different programs in France, which is where I wanted to go. I chose IES Nantes because of its reputation with my Study Abroad office and with the French faculty at SMU as a program that greatly improved language skills. I stayed in an area of town about 30 minutes bus ride away from the Center, within walking distance of the university. I lived with a family with four children under the age of 20 in a three-story house in a residential area. I had my own bedroom, and shared a bathroom with the children. My host mom set out breakfast for me in the morning, and I ate dinner with the family every evening. I would highly recommend IES, especially because of its homestay program. My relationship with my host family is the most important thing I gained while Abroad.

Through studying abroad in Nantes, France with IES, I gained a better sense of self, and surprisingly a greater appreciation for the States. In learning about another culture, you find out what you like and dislike about your own. Also, it opened my mind to a lot of new ideas. You also get to meet people that you would never have the opportunity to meet otherwise.

IES Nantes is a very smart decision when it comes to language learning. This program allows you to take courses at the local university, Université de Nantes, and also at the IES Center, which is in a beautiful old building near city center. The professors at the Center are absolutely excellent, and hand-picked by M. de Berranger, Program Director and Professor of Law at the university. The program includes multiple group vacations by bus to famous landmarks in France. My group went to Mont Saint Michel, Brittany, and visited the historic castles of the Loire valley. It also includes some special cultural events in Nantes, such as a visit to the Opera. The main thing you need to know about IES Nantes, though, is that it is a family. The center is built with a computer lab, library, an art room, a TV room, and two kitchens. Students tend to stay at the Center while it is open, building strong connections with staff and professors. One professor even teaches a French cooking workshop! Also, many of the host families have been with the program for years, so you are more likely to get a family that understands the struggles of learning to live somewhere new.

I had an amazing host family, made great friends, French and American, and I wish I could go back!

The IES Abroad Nantes, France program is practically the reason I am yet once again (this being the second time) in France. For Nantes is where I spent 4 and a half months working and improving my French, where I met my host family that would immerse me into French life, language, and culture (stayed with them when I visited just a month ago), and where I served as President of my class and got to work alongside the administration to ensure we had a great and fun-filled experience. This is where I first traveled and lived in Europe. The price is right, the financial aid and scholarships plenty, the language: French, and the friends, experiences, and immersion opportunities abounding. Take the risk, reap the profits. Just do it!

I spent the spring 2010 semester in Nantes with IES and LOVED it! If you want to truly improve your French skills, this is the best place to go. The accent is clear, and for the most part, people don't speak English! I had an amazing host family who made me feel at home from the little things they did (daily dinners) to the big things (taking me to their countryside chateau on weekends)...wouldn't have traded them for anything! Study abroad is great for expanding world view and discovering your independence, and I think IES did the perfect job of keeping me under their wing as I did these very things. Loved my time in France so much that I'm going to spend this coming semester in Cameroon! I could tell you so much more... feel free to read the blog I kept--> www.studyabroadnantes.blogspot.com

I would not change a single thing about this program. From the staff and courses offered, to the town and the surrounding community this is the ideal way for an American student to experience France and the French language. Nantes is all about balance. IES is able to be present and helpful in every way you might need help, while also being incredibly free as a student to live as a French person would. My host mother and I write weekly since I have gotten home. I even write letters to my professors in France. I love the city of Nantes. It has everything, while still being safe and dynamic. This is the win, win... win... win...win study abroad program in France.

Nantes was everything I dreamed of and more! I met amazing new people, travelled around France, and really bonded with a memorable host family, whom I am still in contact with. I am considering moving back after I finish college. The city is small and charming, yet it still has the hustle and bustle of a metropolis. You meet people and even have the pleasure of seeing them around town. It's a safe city, and I often found solace in strolling through the parks or city square. It's also an adventure to take the tramways and buses. It's offers an additional chance to explore some other parts of the city. I adored the faculty and staff with the IES agency. They were strict with the FRENCH ONLY policy and that helped me strengthen my language skills. They offered a diverse range of classes, from Sociology to Theatre courses. I felt comfortable with all members of the staff and they had a lot of events planned for students on a regular basis to really immerse us in the culture.

Nantes was everything I could have asked for in a study abroad program. Great classes, inviting host families, outgoing students, all the opportunities you could ask for, the best in French food and drink and all the best parts of French life that you thought had gone out of style but are still alive and well! In Nantes, you can explore and find your own adventures in a city that still has a little bit of everything but on a smaller and more intimate scale than Paris. The city itself has plenty of students, good places to hang out and plenty to do with friends. And by train, you have all of western and northern France at your disposal for traveling. And, if you are looking to improve your French, then Nantes is the place for you...I think TIME magazine named Nantes as the last truly European city and nobody will speak English to you to prove that its true!

I absolutely loved this program. The city is gorgeous and a relatively affluent city, so it is also very clean and safe. It is very easy to get around because it is both walkable and has a very extensive transportation network. The teachers at IES are great and I absolutely adored my host stay. The few students who encountered problems with their host families were able to get moved. Unlike in Paris, no shop proprietors will respond to you in English, so it is also a great place to improve your French language skills. The boulangeries are delicious and the city has lots of beautiful buildings and parks. Overall an incredible experience!