Caitlin

Travel Study Program: Alliance Française’s Alma College semester in Paris

Why I decided to study abroad and how I chose a program: I wanted to study abroad because I had always wanted to live in France and because [French] was my college major. I chose the Alma College program because it was a small and more personalized program. Also, the program offered art history classes and the possiblity to do an internship in addition to course work. It housed students with families, which was something I really wanted.

How I prepared: The only preparation I had for my semester abroad was taking courses in French grammar, literature and civilization at university. I had traveled to France two times as a teenager— but being a tourist and living there are very different!

My experience at this program: Since the Alliance Française is full of foreigners, French is the common language and we were forced to speak it to one another, which was good. One downside of the AF being a school for foreigners was that it was difficult to meet other French students.

My tips for readers who want to study in France: I wish I had done an activity outside course work to meet French people—volunteer, do sports, participate in theater groups or something.

Cultural differences I faced: Not smiling on the métro or in the streets. Getting used to living with a family with two teenage boys who speak French quickly and with lots of slang. Stores being closed on Sundays. Public transport strikes.

What to expect from a study experience in France: Studying abroad is a great way to get to know another country and another culture. Don’t expect anything specific, but be open to the experience. Every experience is unique, and studying abroad can change your life if you want it to. Remember not to criticize but accept that things are different.

Favorite places and things to do: Place des Vosges, the Luxembourg gardens, the Musée d’Orsay. Eating falafel on Rue des Rosiers, trying on hats at Le Bon Marché, weekend brunch at Le Pain Quotidien, going to the hammam at the Mosque.

Best memory: Being a part of a French family, really getting to know Paris and meeting my husband.