I had the pleasure of spending 5 weeks this summer studying
the French Language in the city of Tours, France. Looking back on the time I
had, I would never hesitate promoting studying abroad and how amazing it is. It’s
a perfect way to not only get college credit, but to really connect with a
place like you never have before. I have vacationed to many places, but never
before I had an experience so intimate where I’ve lived abroad and had both the
struggles and the joys of adapting to a new culture.
So here some of the most noteworthy aspects of my time in
France:
The People
In my opinion, the people you meet is the most rewarding
part of studying abroad. Of all the memories I made, the ones with new friends
are the most special to me. Studying in France allowed me to meet my host
family (of course), other students from the U, international students in
classes, and French locals. Being in a host family was definitely nerve racking
at first, but they were quick to make me feel at home. Meeting students both
from home and afar was great; everyone is there for the same reason so you have
that in common with people right off the bat. From what I learned from speaking
French with my host family and with other students even allowed me to make
friends with French locals as well. When all was said and done, meeting people
was my favorite part of this experience.
The Language
Don’t let being a beginner stop you from studying abroad. I
had only one semester of French under my belt, yet in only 5 weeks my speaking
confidence and vocabulary improved immensely. Three things helped me with the
learning process:
1.
Talking with my host family: If you’re taking a
language immersive program, your family likely doesn’t know/won’t ever speak
English. Try your hardest to speak with them, even if you think you sound
stupid.
2.
Practice with other students: You’re not alone;
all the other students are there for the same reason. If you’re a beginner,
confide in the expertise of students who know the language better. Most the
time you’ll be speaking English with the others, but now and then making the
effort to speak the language with your peers goes a long way.
3.
The classes: Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Classes really helped me with the basics.
The Food
French food is amazing! My favorite meals were the ones my
host mom made. Wherever you go,
definitely stretch outside your comfort zone with the food. It was part of the
fun for me trying a rancid smelling morsel of cheese or ordering something on
the menu I couldn’t quite translate. With that said, don’t give yourself too
much guilt when your missing home and cave into eating at an American food
chain (just don’t make a habit of it!).
The Places
Wherever you go, you are bound to see some incredible
sights. Classes don’t restrict you’re time to really see the country! With my
program we spent the first week exploring the different chateaus of the Loire
Valley. The weekends were awesome too, I was able to take excursions to Mont
St. Michel, La Rochelle, and Paris. Class time was fairly short, so there was
plenty of time for us to sightsee around Tours or to just relax at our favorite
bars and cafes. Wherever you go, study abroad is perfect for seeing the amazing
sights your country has to offer.
Studying abroad is definitely an experience I will never
forget. The people I met and the memories I made have had a big impact me. I
loved the time I spent there, and if you are considering studying abroad, you
won’t regret it!
Very inspiring blog.of course it all depends on content Why Study in France
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