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Study Abroad in Montpellier
2010–11
ON-SITE GUIDE
EUROPE
FRANCE
Important Names & Know Before You Go
Addresses Before you leave the country, make sure that you have read
and understood the information in your Confirmation
Checklist, Online Orientation (www.UMabroad.umn.edu/
onlineOrientation/sponsored/index), and the Learning
In the United States Abroad Center’s policies (www.UMabroad.umn.edu/
Learning Abroad Center policies/index). These materials will guide you on a safe and
Study, Work, Intern, Travel & Volunteer Services successful learning abroad experience.
230 Heller Hall
271 19th Avenue S.
University of Minnesota Friends and Family Resources
Minneapolis, MN 55455-0430 Valuable resources for your friends and family members can
Phone: 612.626.9000 be found at www.UMabroad.umn.edu/parents. Topics such
Fax: 612.626.8009 as health and safety, program prices, logistics, and travel are
Toll Free: 888.700.UOFM discussed.
Email: UMabroad@umn.edu
Website: www.UMabroad.umn.edu
Amber Bathke, Associate Program Director
612.626.2234
abathke@umn.edu
Dr. Heidi Soneson, Program Director
612.625.2571
sones001@umn.edu
In case of emergency, contact the Learning Abroad Center
at 612.626.9000 at any time. If it is after business hours, a
recording will give you a number to call. The Learning Abroad
Center has someone on call to deal with emergencies and
can contact the on-site director if needed. Once overseas,
participants should contact Françoise Chaton in case of
an emergency. Contact information will be given out at
orientation.
In France
Mme Françoise Chaton, On-Site Director
University of Minnesota Program
6, Impasse Cité Gelly
34000 Montpellier
France
Paul Valéry University’s website:
www.univ-montp3.fr
Institute for Foreign Students summer program website:
http://iefe.univ-montp3.fr/english/
2
Table of Contents Life in France....................................................21
Geography & Climate ............................................................21
Life in Montpellier..................................................................21
Entertainment....................................................................... 22
Important Names & Addresses ..........................2 Extra-Curricular Activities .................................................... 22
Introduction ........................................................4 Local Transportation ............................................................ 23
Social & Cultural Adjustments .............................................. 23
Study Abroad in Montpellier and You .................4
Coming Home ...................................................24
Preparation & Planning ......................................5
Documents...............................................................................5 Cultural Adjustment ........................................ 25
Health & Safety ........................................................................5 The On-Site Experience ........................................................ 25
Travel ......................................................................................6
Appendix.......................................................... 26
Considerations During Planning ..............................................6
Resources ........................................................ 30
Arrival Logistics ..................................................7 Books .................................................................................... 30
Coordinated Flight ...................................................................7
Films ..................................................................................... 30
Arrival ......................................................................................7
Useful Websites ..................................................................... 30
Orientation Schedule and Housing ..........................................8
Program End ..........................................................................8 Packing List ......................................................31
Practical & Program Information.......................8 Pre-departure Checklists ................................. 32
On-site Support ........................................................................8
Comments from Past Participants .................. 35
Cultural Opportunities ............................................................9
Accommodations .....................................................................9
Liability Insurance .................................................................10
Homestay ...............................................................................10
Apartments ............................................................................11
Dormitories ...........................................................................12
Money Matters .......................................................................13
Communications....................................................................14
Working Abroad & Work Permits ..........................................15
FERPA ....................................................................................15
Academics ........................................................15
University of Montpellier ........................................................15
Registration ...........................................................................16
Dropping & Adding Courses ..................................................16
Books & Materials .................................................................17
Exams ....................................................................................17
Grades & Transcripts .............................................................17
Summer Program ..................................................................18
Global Identity: Connecting your International Experience to
your Future .......................................................................19
Academic Planning................................................................19
French Educational System .................................................. 20
Academic Policy ................................................................... 20
3
Introduction
Dear Study Abroad in Montpellier Participant:
Félicitations: vous avez été accepté(e) pour le programme de
Montpellier. C’est formidable.
This guide provides an overview of the Study Abroad in
As the On-Site Director for this program, I really look
Montpellier program. It addresses program options, academic
forward to meeting you in Montpellier. I am sure that you
issues, information about your housing options, and cultural
will find our medieval city attractive. Montpellier is the site
information. Use this guide in conjuction with the Learning
of one of the oldest universities in France and hosts about
Abroad Center’s website, the online Health and Safety
70,000 students. It definitely has the flair of a student town
orientation, and the in-person orientation or the online
with its population of 350,000 people and numerous cultural
Montpellier orientation. These materials contain essential
activities for young people. I have no doubt that you will meet
information regarding the Montpellier program as well as your
lots of French people during your stay here.
responsibilities as a participant in a University of Minnesota
Montpellier is located only five miles from the Mediterranean program.
Sea and the Cevennes Mountains, which you will see as you
Take this handbook with you to France, as it contains
land, are only one hour away. East of Montpellier you will
information that will be useful before, during, and after your
find the beautiful region of Provence, and about four hours
stay. As part of your preparation, you are encouraged to read
away by car you reach the Alps. With Paris only three and a
other sources of information about France and Montpellier.
half hours away on the fast train and Barcelona three hours
You will find a recommended reading list in the appendix of
away, you will have plenty to explore on weekends and during
this handbook. The better prepared you are, the more quickly
official holidays.
you will adjust to and function effectively in French society.
The campus of the Fac des Lettres is located in a newer area of
As a Study Abroad in Montpellier participant, you can
town and is where most of your classes will meet. You have a
expect to be challenged by immersion in a different academic
large choice of classes ranging from integrated classes at any of
system, a different culture, and a whole new way of life.
the University of Montpellier campuses, to classes organized
Expect the unexpected. Study abroad requires independence
for foreign students, to classes organized specifically for
and individual initiative. As you read through this guide, do
our program. My staff and I will be there to help you select
not hesitate to contact the Learning Abroad Center with any
courses according to your level of French and interest.
questions you may have.
After graduating from the University of Liege in Belgium, I
came to Minneapolis for my graduate studies. I taught for
ten years at the University of Minnesota and for five years at
Carleton College before I accepted the position as On-Site Study Abroad in
Director in Montpellier. I am also on staff at the University
Paul Valéry. Do count on me to always try to do my best to Montpellier and You
help you with academic and other matters.
Our on-site staff of four help me with daily management of The Study Abroad in Montpellier program offers you the
the office. Our social assistants, who are French, will organize unique opportunity to live and study with French students or
activities and are responsible for the newsletter we publish international students from around the world. Since you will
every Monday. We all really look forward to welcoming you to enter a different culture and a different academic system, keep
Montpellier and to our program. the following in mind:
A très bientôt, donc. • French students take classes in one department and have
a clearly prescribed program. As a result, the French uni-
versity does not provide comprehensive course catalogs
or detailed course information. Therefore, it is important
Françoise Defrecheux-Chaton
to be patient and flexible. The program’s on-site staff will
Directrice du Programme assist students with their course selection and help gather
information from various departments.
• Not all faculty distribute course syllabi. If you need spe-
cific information in order to get credit in the US, speak to
the on-site staff about your needs so that they can guide
you on how to gather this information.
• The concept of quick and comprehensive customer ser-
vice is a uniquely US phenomenon. The French are used
to a complex bureaucracy with multiple layers of author-
4
ity. Be patient and do your best to adjust to the French The address of the American Consulate in Marseilles (the
sense of timing and process. Keep in mind that faculty closest Consulate to Montpellier) is:
and administrators will have limited office hours and will
expect you to adjust to the French system. The American Consulate
Place Varian Fry
• Extensive attention to individual needs and exceptions is 13286 Marseilles.
also unique to US culture. Most other European coun- Phone: 33.4.91.54.92.00
tries expect individuals to adjust to standard policies
and procedures. Pay attention to academic and cultural If for any reason you should have legal difficulties in France,
guidelines in order not to miss important deadlines (such the American Consulate or Embassy cannot intervene on your
as examinations). Do not expect the French system to behalf. They will assist you in contacting a lawyer if necessary.
provide you with reminders or detailed explanations.
• Eating and drinking in the classrooms in France is not Visa
allowed and is considered disrespectful. Semester and academic year participants are required to apply
• The French, in general, place a higher priority on social for a French long-stay student visa. Students on the summer
interaction and social engagement than is often the case program do not need a student visa. For the most up to date
in the US. You will find yourself spending more time over information on this process, review the information on the
lunch and afternoon coffee to socialize with friends and website at: www.UMabroad.umn.edu/programs/Europe/
colleagues. montpellier/visaInformation.html.
• Europeans, in general, are well informed about US You will need to purchase a round-trip ticket to be able to
politics and world events and feel comfortable discussing obtain a student visa.
these events in daily conversation. We encourage you to
read about contemporary French events and US current Once in France, you will complete the visa process by
events so that you can engage in discussions with new registering with the French immigration office. See the visa
colleagues and friends. section of our website for further details.
Power of Attorney
Preparation & Planning We strongly encourage you to designate someone as your
Power of Attorney while you are abroad. Your Power of
Attorney can act as your legal representative in a number of
Documents situations. Review the information on the website at:
www.UMabroad.umn.edu/policies/powerOfAttorney.html.
Passport
A passport is required to enter France. Passports can take
Your Email Address
four to eight weeks to process. More information is If your contact information changes, you must notify the
available on the web at www.UMabroad.umn.edu/travel/ Learning Abroad Center.
travDocuments/.
Once you receive your passport, make photocopies of it and/ Health & Safety
or scan it and email it to yourself. Leave one copy at home
and bring a copy with you as well. Always keep your passport You are required to complete the online Health and Safety
in a safe place. Orientation. Print out the handouts and make notes on them
to bring with you.
If your passport is lost or stolen, contact the American
Consulate or Embassy immediately. The address of the US You will find important information on health precautions,
Embassy in Paris is: taking prescriptions overseas, and the mandatory insurance
policy you will be enrolled in as a program participant.
The American Embassy
2 Avenue Gabriel You are also responsible for reviewing the Traveler’s Health
75008 Paris Information on the CDC website at: www.cdc.gov.
Phone: 33.1.43.12.22.22 No special vaccinations are necessary to enter France or re-
enter the US after traveling in France.
Review the health insurance policy details online at:
www.UMabroad.umn.edu/healthSafety/healthInsurance.
html.
5
Note that the policy only includes emergency dental coverage except during the designated breaks or before or after the
and that the policy does not have any US coverage. program.
In order to avoid medical and dental expenses on site, see your The French train system is one of the best in the world.
doctor and dentist prior to your departure. We also advise you Students can travel from Paris to Montpellier on the TGV
to budget some money for medical situations on site and to (train à grande vitesse). Regular train service is available for
keep your current US health insurance policy while abroad. most inter-city travel. You can get a railway discount card
that can be purchased at the train station. It is called the
Safety Precautions 12–25 (douze vingt–cinq) card as it is only available to people
You are responsible for reviewing the US State Department’s between the ages of 12 and 25. It is worthwhile if you do any
website at www.travel.state.gov for up-to-date information on train traveling.
travel to France and any other countries you plan on visiting There are many interesting possibilities for both group and
during your term abroad. individual excursions around Montpellier. Les Baux, St.
• Female students should avoid traveling alone at night. Al- Guilhem-Le-Désert, and Aigues-Mortes are all medieval cities
ways walk in groups or with a male companion. Do not in the area. The Camargue is a marshy delta on the Rhone
look strangers in the eye or speak to them, particularly known for its pink flamingos, its horses, “cowboys,” bullfights,
at night, as this is considered an invitation to conversa- and the church of “Les Saintes-Maries-de-La-Mer,” the
tion. Use a firm “Non, merci.” or no response at all to site of an annual gypsy pilgrimage. The Garrigue is a semi-
any verbal harassment. Do not try to defend yourself if arid, brushy area to the north of Montpellier noted for old
confronted by strangers or hagglers, particularly at night. volcanoes, caves, and fascinating geological formations.
Immediately leave the setting and seek assistance from the
nearest restaurant, café, or police officer.
• Keep your personal belongings hidden. Montpellier is
Considerations During Planning
a metropolitan city with people from many different Students of Color
economic levels and cultures. You should not assume that
you are safe to travel without concern. People of color are generally well received in France. France
is a multi-cultural society. The black African influence is
• Use common sense when giving out your address or particularly evident due to the cooperative projects and
phone number. If you are uncomfortable with someone, business exchanges France has with numerous former African
you may have a real reason to be. Although you want to colonies.
meet and get to know people, some people may not share
in that innocent intention. It is wise to set up times and You may wish to consult the resources available at the
places to meet others rather than give out any personal Learning Abroad Center on issues related to students of
information. If you are living with a host family, check color and learning abroad. Also, program-specific material
with them before giving out their phone number, address, may include information more specific to the host culture. If
or inviting guests over. In general, overnight guests are you have questions about the country in which you will be
not appropriate in any housing situation. studying, do not hesitate to contact a Learning Abroad Center
• Neighborhoods in Montpellier are made up of people staff member.
from all economic levels. Students are housed in typical For additional resources, you can contact the Office for Equity
neighborhoods with people of all ethnic and economic and Diversity at www.academic.umn.edu/equity.
backgrounds.
Students With Disabilities
Travel Many of the disability accommodations or services that are
provided at US universities may be different or unavailable
Students who are planning on traveling extensively in France overseas. Being in a new environment can also be stressful,
before, during, or after the program should investigate the and accommodations that you may not have needed at home
availability of student discounts before purchasing tickets. See may become necessary in an unfamiliar setting. Participants
our website: www.UMabroad.umn.edu/travel/index.html with any kind of diability, whether hidden or visible, should
for information on travel products. contact the Learning Abroad Center in advance to discuss their
Any time you travel, inform the on-site staff of your plans, particular needs.
including your destinations, planned return date, and contact Please consult with the Learning Abroad Center staff for
information. You should also notify your host family or further information on possible accommodations.
apartment roommates as well as your family back in the US
of your destination and return date. Since this is an academic
program, you are discouraged from traveling extensively
6
Arrival Logistics
Advanced French summer program: Students on the
coordinated flight will be met at the airport by the host
families and will spend the first week with a host family
before moving to the University dormitory for the remainder
Coordinated Flight of the program. For students who arrive separate from the
The Learning Abroad Center arranges an optional coordinated coordinated flight, you will need to take a taxi to your host
flight in consultation with Village Travel, a local travel agency. family’s home. Please budget 50 – 75 euros in cash for this
This flight confirms the official arrival date and time. The expense. Transportation at the end of the program is not
program staff will meet this flight at the airport. provided.
Village Travel will contact you directly when this information Let your friends and family members know that you will not
is available. Information, booking, and payment are handled be able to contact them immediately after you arrive. You will
directly by Village Travel. Consult Village Travel’s website for likely be exhausted and busy with your new surroundings.
information on the coordinated flight: www.villageinc.com. Most students call or email after several days. Reassure your
friends and family members that the Learning Abroad Center
The coordinated flight cost is designed to be competitive, but monitors all student arrivals and will contact the emergency
priority is placed on services such as routing, the ability to contact listed on your application if you do not arrive as
make group reservations, ticketing flexibility, and the ability to scheduled. Given the number of students on the program, we
reserve specific travel dates. Travel can be arranged from any cannot confirm individual arrivals.
location in the US and every attempt will be made to connect
with the coordinated flight. While you are not required to
choose this group flight, it is designed to offer travel in the
comfort of other participants in the program.
If you make your own flight arrangements, select a round-trip
flight that has a flexible return date as most students change
their return once they know their French final exam dates.
You will need a round-trip ticket for your visa, and it is also
extremely difficult to find a return flight if you only have
booked one-way. Flying stand-by is not allowed. You must
ensure that you arrive on the official arrival date. Late arrival is
not allowed.
If you are not taking the coordinated flight, you are required
to provide the Learning Abroad Center with your flight
information. Students must do so by August 14 for fall/year,
by December 15 for spring, and by June 15 for summer.
Early Arrivals
If you arrive prior to the official arrival date, you are
Arrival responsible for your own housing. The youth hostel in
The on-site staff will meet students at the airport on the day Montpellier is one possibility, and there is also a quaint hotel
and time listed for the coordinated flight. not far from the Promenade du Peyrou. The addresses are as
follows:
Semester/academic year students: Semester and academic year
students will typically take a taxi to a designated hotel for the Auberge de Jeunesse (youth hostel)
first night. Please budget approximately 50 euros in cash for Rue des écoles laïques
this expense. Transportation at the end of the program is not Impasse Petite Corraterie
provided. 34000 Montpellier
tel: 04.67.60.32.22
Intensive French summer students: Summer students will have fax: 04.67.60.32.30
transportation provided by the Institute for Foreign Students montpellier@fuaj.org
to the University dormitory. Transportation at the end of the
program is not provided. For students who arrive after regular Hotel du Palais
working hours, you will need to arrange your own housing 3, rue du Palais
at a local hotel or at the youth hostel listed in this Program 34000 Montpellier
Guide and then proceed to the designated dormitory the tel: 04.67.60.47.38
next day. Details on the designated dormitory will be sent fax: 04.67.60.40.23
approximately one month prior to the start of the program. hoteldupalais2@wanadoo.fr
7
Also check the dates of your program provided on your CISI Students on the Advanced French summer program will
insurance card to ensure that you are covered during your live with a host family for the first week. Orientation and
early arrival. If you are not, you will need to extend your the advanced topics course take place during the first week.
coverage by purchasing additional CISI insurance online for During the second week, students move to the University
an additional month before the program. The same process dormitory and begin the additional language course at the
applies if you plan to stay after the program. Institute for Foreign Students.
Delayed Arrivals
If there are problems while you are traveling that will delay Program End
your arrival in Montpellier, call the Learning Abroad Center The program end date is widely publicized and the Learning
at 612.626.9000 if you are still in the US, or call Françoise Abroad Center is not responsible for students after the
Chaton at 04.67.02.25.29 if you are in France. It is imperative program finishes. Students are welcome to remain in France
that you inform staff of any changes in your arrival time so after the program end date for independent travel. However,
that the on-site staff is aware of your schedule. as the program has ended, students cannot continue to live
in program housing and will need to move out by the final
Late Arrivals program date.
Late arrivals are not allowed. Students will not be given make-
up orientation or academic advising and risk losing credit
for the program. Plan your arrival on, or before, the official
program arrival date.
Practical & Program
Information
Orientation Schedule and Housing
Spring Semester and academic year students move to their
On-site Support
permanent housing after their one night stay in the arrival The on-site staff are available to help you in all aspects of your
hotel. The hotel is arranged and paid for by the program. stay in Montpellier, whether it is an academic or personal
Students have a one-week orientation organized by the issue. The program staff advises all students on the program,
program. During the orientation program you will meet with and patience will be required in order to have your questions
the on-site staff, learn about the French academic system and answered. The on-site staff will inform you of the office hours
expectations, have language evaluation, and receive a tour of and ask that you see them during these times for program
campus and Montpellier. Following this orientation, you will questions. During the semester the office is closed in the
begin your regular coursework. mornings and open in the afternoons until 7 p.m. During
the summer the office is open three hours per day in the
Intensive French summer students move directly into the afternoons.
University dormitories for the duration of the program.
Orientation for summer program students is organized by Be respectful of the fact that the on-site staff members have
the Institute for Foreign Students and is part of the overall private lives to lead. Do not contact the onsite staff at nights
summer program. Students are tested on the day after arrival or on weekends unless it is a true emergency. Most issues
in order to be placed at the appropriate language level. A can wait until the next office hour to be resolved. In an
general orientation to the program and to Montpellier will be emergency, you should call the emergency cell phone number,
conducted by the Institute on this day as well. Our program which you should keep with you at all times. Try to tackle
staff will supplement the Institute’s orientation activities minor questions and issues on your own. Your own ingenuity
with a special welcome dinner in the first week and a farewell and initiative is also a great resource and part of the challenge
dinner in the last week for students on the program. You of living in a new country.
will also meet as a group with our program staff to learn
Although our program office telephone number is provided,
more about the program office hours and the academic
friends and family members should contact the Learning
requirements of the program.
Abroad Center at the University of Minnesota for assistance
Students participating in the Intensive French Summer throughout the program. Let your friends and family know
Session B as a pre-session to Fall/Academic Year will have a that the Learning Abroad Center staff is here to provide them
break of approximately 2 weeks after the end of the summer with any assistance and answer any questions they may have
session to travel. Housing is not provided by the program before, during, and after your stay. It is very difficult for
between the end of the summer session and the beginning overseas staff to handle calls from the US when they are also
of the Fall/Academic Year term. Students wishing to stay in attending to the needs of the students on-site.
Montpellier during this time can reserve housing at their own
expense at the youth hostel.
8
Cultural Opportunities homestay in the suburbs, you need to adjust your expectations
to be realistic for the conditions and lifestyle and enjoy your
For semester and academic year students, one excursion to experience, whatever it may be.
a site of interest in or around Montpellier is included in the
program fee. Additionally, the program’s social assistants French neighborhoods differ from most U.S. neighborhoods
organize weekly activities to familiarize you with the city and in that you will find a diverse mix of people living together
provide you with opportunities to meet French students. in the same area. In Montpellier, neighborhoods house
Finally, there are optional excursions made available through individuals from a variety of ethnic, religious and economic
local travel agents. If sufficient students elect to participate, backgrounds. You should be prepared for this difference.
a variety of excursions can be offered. Past examples include Living in a typical French neighborhood is an excellent insite
a ski trip to the Alps, a weekend in Venice, a day trip to into French culture.
Provence, hiking in the Massif de l’Espinousse, and horseback
riding on the beach. Notification of Placement
You will be notified of your housing placement as soon as
Summer students will enjoy excursions and activities
the Learning Abroad Center receives the finalized placement
organized by the Institute for Foreign Students as part of the
information from overseas, approximately two weeks prior to
summer program. Visit the Institute’s website listed on the
departure. All housing arrangements are subject to change.
inside cover of this handbook for more details.
Your housing arrangements begin on the scheduled date of
arrival and continue until the official end date of the program.
Refer to the program calendar on the Learning Abroad Center
Accommodations websitefor exact dates.
Housing Options
Changing Your Housing
Academic year and semester students have a choice of housing
options but should keep in mind that the program has only Semester and academic year students switching housing once a
2–3 dormitory spaces available each semester. Intensive French placement has been made will be charged a housing placement
Summer program students are housed in the University fee and may be required to pay a financial penalty. The
dormitories. Advanced French Summer students live with a amount of the financial penalty will depend on the individual
host family for the first week and in the University dormitory circumstances. Any reimbursement for changes in housing
for the remainder of the program. will be credited to the student’s U of M student account.
Reimbursements will not be distributed on site, and students
Tips on Adapting to Your New Environment in apartments must be prepared to pay additional on-site costs
such as utilities and food. Any change in housing must be
Part of your experience in France will be to adjust to the discussed with the on-site staff in advance.
French way of life. Communication and adaptability is key in
working towards the best housing experience possible. While Academic year students who wish to change housing mid-year
no housing situation will ever be perfect, some situations may are encouraged to indicate so on the housing request form and
be remedied, and making the best of your housing situation are required to speak with the on-site staff about it once on
is a two-way street. In the beginning, give yourself and others site. There is no guarantee that a switch will be possible and if
a couple of weeks to adjust to the situation. As you encounter the switch is made a penalty fee will be charged.
difficulties, first look within yourself to see what changes you
Students who fail to act in a manner appropriate to their
can make. In general, any initial housing problems can usually
housing situation overseas may be dismissed from the program
be resolved by talking about it and remaining open to change.
at the discretion of the on-site director. The on-site director
If you continue to find yourself in a difficult living situation,
also has the authority to change housing arrangements and
speak with the on-site staff. They will try to work through
assess a financial penalty, if a student is disorderly or fails
your housing situation with you. Remember, study abroad is
to act responsibly and courteously with their host family,
a cultural experience and things will be different, but entering
roommates, or landlord.
into the experience with an open mind can make the daily
challenges of living in Montpellier one of the most rewarding
parts of your study abroad experience. Speak French
French housing is quite different from housing in the US. Speak French as much as you can, with whomever you can,
Montpellier is very historic, which means that housing will wherever you can. You will not regret it. This may be easier
be in buildings that may be hundreds of years old. In fact, the for those living with French-only speaking families, but it
older a home is, the more desirable it may be to the French, is an issue that you will all need to be aware of and work
even if stairs creak, paint peels, and space is cramped. Living towards consciously. Some past participants have made pacts
in Montepellier is one of the most attractive and expensive with other program participants to speak only French with
areas to live, but space is at a premium. If you are placed in a them. Once you start the habit, it will be easier and easier to
maintain, and you will be happier for it in the end.
9
Liability Insurance American family life. Although you may not like all aspects of
the host family’s habits or lifestyle, view this as an opportunity
Regardless of your housing arrangement, you should to speak French and understand how French families live. This
consider carrying liability insurance from the US in case you will require you to adjust to new habits and some constraints
accidentally cause any damage to your accommodations or that you would not experience if you were living on your own.
have an item lost or stolen.
Considering all aspects of your homestay to be a cultural
and learning experience will go a long way in helping you
Homestay to understand the differences that you are sure to encounter.
Expect that there will be a period of adjustment. The host
Location family needs time to get to know you, and you need time to
build their trust.
In order to provide program participants with their own
room, homestays are located in the suburbs and greater
Montpellier where sufficient larger homes exist. The
commuting distance is approximately 30–45 minutes by
public transportation one-way. There is a tram that runs
until approximately midnight. Students wishing to stay out
late at night will need to take a taxi back to their homestay.
Alternatively, students occasionally stay at a program
participant’s apartment rather than return home late on a
weekend night. The homestay is the best choice for a student
who wishes to maximize the opportunity to speak French and
who is interested in participating in French family life and
culture.
Benefits
You will have your own room, a desk for studying, linens,
sheets, blankets, and pillow. The homestay option includes
two meals per day during the week (breakfast and the evening Tips for a Successful Homestay
meal) and all meals on the weekend, if you are home.. Lunch
The program requires that you abide by the guidelines
is typically eaten on campus during the week at the cafeteria
established by the host family and that you spend time
for a nominal fee (approximately 5 Euros). There is only one
participating in their family activities. This is not a boarding
program participant per homestay, although a host family may
house arrangement. Maintain reasonable hours and spend
elect to host a student from another program as well.
time with the host family on a regular basis. Always inform
the family of your plans, and of any changes in your plans.
Realistic Expectations If you will not be home for dinner, inform your host family
On your housing form, you have the opportunity to state your ahead of time. Also, greet your family when you come home
ideal preferences. While the on-site staff reviews the housing and say goodbye when you are leaving.
forms carefully, do not expect your host family placement to
perfectly match your preferences. The on-site staff balances Housing Contracts
the needs of many students and will make a placement that
The Learning Abroad Center ensures that both participants
they feel is best suited to you. Families in France are as diverse
and host families are aware of their rights and responsibilities
as families in the US; every family will be different and the
during the program. Familiarize yourself with the sample
level of integration will vary.
contract in the appendix of this handbook.
Host families in France are not meant to be replacement
parents or a replacement family support system. Living with Holidays
a host family gives you the opportunity to see how French During school breaks, host families will not expect students
family life functions and to participate in some aspects of that to remain in Montpellier. You may use this period to travel.
life. Host families are not expected to provide the same level If you plan to stay with your host family over the break, you
of care and involvement that you would receive from your must notify the on-site staff by the deadline posted on site.
own family in the US. If the host family will not be available during the break, we
Accept differences in your French family’s lifestyle and will find alternative housing for you. You should arrange to
accommodations with an open mind. Remember that you pay your host family an extra fee for meals during this period.
need to adjust to the lifestyle of the host family. In general, You can store your belongings at the host family if you are
you will find that French family life is quite different from traveling during break.
10
Before and After the Program in general tend to snack much more frequently than
Europeans and often feel hungry much more frequently. Host
Host families do not expect to host you before the program
families, however, are not expected to maintain American
or after the program. Do not call or visit the host family prior
eating habits.
to the start of the program. You are welcome to send them a
card, letter, or email if you wish. If you plan to travel after the The mid-day meal during weekdays is not included in the
program, you can ask your host family if you may store your program. An inexpensive option for lunch (about 5 Euros) is
luggage at their home until you return. The host family has any one of the four student cafeterias. The family will provide
the right to decline, if this is not convenient for them. In this you with lunch in addition to breakfast and dinner only on
case, you will need to take your belongings with you when the weekends if you are at home, spending time with them. It
you travel. The program cannot store your luggage. is not appropriate to arrive home after a weekend of traveling
and expect dinner to be waiting for you.
Telephone
In general, do not use the family’s telephone unless your Gifts
family offers to let you do so. It is very expensive to use the It is customary and polite to bring a gift to your host family.
telephone in Europe, since there is a charge for even local The following are some gift ideas:
calls. In addition, phone bills may not be itemized and there
will be no way to determine the cost of your calls. To keep in • Clothing and items with University logos
touch with your family in the US, you can arrange to have • Prepackaged mixes (pancakes, chili)
them call you on your cell phone. • Maple syrup or candy
• Calendars with US scenery
Utilities
• CDs of American music
Use electricity and hot water conservatively, as utility costs
are very high in France. Use your host family’s habits as an • Handmade crafts or jewelry (especially Native American)
example. For example, never leave a light on in an empty • Bottle of wine
room. In some cases, if the hot water supply is used up, there
will be no hot water available for the rest of the day.
Apartments
Bringing a Laptop The apartment option gives you the most freedom to
You will be limited in your use of a laptop while staying with a maintain your current lifestyle while in France. However,
host family. You should inquire whether the host family would this freedom presents its own challenges, as students living in
like you to pay extra for the cost of electricity, and you should apartments will need to make an extra effort to integrate into
use your laptop sparingly. Do not expect to have access to the French society, meet French people, and practice their French.
internet at your host family’s home.
Students who wish to live in an apartment have a choice
between two types of apartments. The first type is a typical
Laundry French apartment; the second is a studio apartment at
If your family offers to do your laundry, do not expect them Residence l’Observatoire. Both options are described in detail
to wash every day; be reasonable with the amount of laundry below.
you give them. Also keep in mind that most French families
do not have a dryer. If you give them a load to wash, you Furnishings
cannot expect to wear those clothes the next day. If you are
Apartment kitchens and bathrooms are equipped with
given permission to wash your clothes, be careful not to
minimal furniture and supplies. The program will ensure that
overload the machine or otherwise abuse this priveledge.
you have a bed, a comforter, sheets, a lamp, a desk, living and/
or dining room furniture and basic cooking supplies. You
Meals need to be prepared to purchase items such as toilet paper,
Dinner in France is regarded as an important event; usually light bulbs, trash bags, etc.
the entire family sits down at the table. French families
normally eat around 8 p.m., although this varies from family All items provided by the landlord must be left in good
to family. Inform your family early if you will be absent from condition, and the comforter must be professionally dry
dinner. cleaned.
Always ask permission to eat food from the kitchen or Apartment Deposit
refrigerator. If you find that you are hungry beyond what the
All students who are placed in an apartment are required
family provides, you will need to purchase snacks. Americans
to pay a $500 damage deposit. This charge will appear on
11
your University of Minnesota account, and you must make Refer to the Student Budget Estimate on the Learning Abroad
payment for this charge to that account, even if your home Center’s website for estimated costs for these expenses. Once
university pays the rest of your fees. It is essential that you in France, you will be provided with information on how you
make payment on time in order to avoid late payment fees. will receive and pay your bill, as well as how to activate the
utilities for your apartment. Be prepared for difficulties and
You will participate in an entrance interview when you arrive delays during this process.
at your apartment, which will allow you and the landlord
to list the condition of the apartment and any furnishings. Internet is not provided with apartment placements. Students
Regardless of the condition of the apartment and furnishings, may wish to consider arranging internet on their own, but
you are fully liable for any damage that occurs during the time it is complicated to arrange, takes at least 2 weeks to receive
you are living in the apartment. The concept of “normal wear service, and is expensive. Most students go to an internet cafe
and tear” does not exist in France. or bring their laptops to the program office and use the office’s
WIFI access.
At the end of the semester, you will have an exit interview
to reassess the condition of your apartment. Anything that The final bill for your utilities will not be available for
is damaged must be repaired or replaced, at your landlord’s approximately two months after the program ends. Your
discretion. If you fail to comply with these requests, the landlord will deduct any outstanding bills from your $500
required amount will be deducted from your damage deposit. damage deposit. If these bills exceed your deposit, you will be
If you do not participate in the exit interview, your deposit liable for these costs. The Learning Abroad Center will hold
will be forfeit. your transcript until all outstanding debts are resolved.
Approximately six months after the program ends, your
Residence l’Observatoire
landlord will send the deposit—minus any outstanding
bills and damage—to the Learning Abroad Center. The The Residence l’Observatoire is a student residence located in
Learning Abroad Center will credit you for the deposit, minus the downtown area. The university is about 30 minutes away
processing and exchange fees, and notify you when your credit by foot and tram.
has been issued. Since all apartments in the Residence are studios, you will not
have roommates if you choose this option. Many students
Typical French Apartments prefer this option because of its convenient location and
Students choosing this option will room with 1–3 other modern facilities. Students should be aware, however, that there
students. Usually these are other program participants, but is typicallylittle social interaction among residents. Please visit
occasionally your roommates may be Americans from other the Observatoire’s website at www.residences-etudiants.com/
study abroad programs, other international students, or even us/observatoire.htm to see photos of this housing option.
French students. You may have to share a bedroom with a
program participant of the same sex. The Residence offers wireless access and laundry facilities in
the building. Utilities are included in the cost.
These apartments are located in the city, but they are generally
not on or next to the Place de la Comédie. Be prepared for a
30-minute commute by public transportation and/or on foot Dormitories
to the University and to downtown.
Dormitories
French apartments within the city are, necessarily, in the
historic medieval buildings that constitute Montpellier’s metro The dormitories at Paul Valery University are very different
area. These apartments are the most desirable for French from US dormitories. The rooms are very small, there is little
people because of their charm, character and convenient social life, the dorms are not well lighted at night, and there
location. However, since they are in older buildings, there are no kitchen facilities. Be very thoughtful before you select
may be drafts, leaks, uneven heating, and older people and this option. It is best for very independent, self-motivated
families with small children living in the same building. As a students.
result, you need to be respectful of your neighbors, maintain
reasonable hours, and be flexible regarding the realities of Location
living in a historic setting. The dormitories are located near campus, which is convenient
for classes, but 45-minute walking distance from downtown.
Students choosing this living arrangement should be
The majority of students in the dormitories are Francophone
financially prepared to pay for utilities (electricity, heat,
male students from West Africa, as the dorms are typically
phone, water), since utilities are not included in this option.
reserved for financially needy students. There is a tram stop
within a few blocks of the dormitory, and the trams operate
until 1 a.m.
12
Amenities Cash
Dormitory rooms are very small (1/4 of the size of a US We recommend that you have 100 Euros on hand when you
dormitory room) and consist of a small single bed, a small arrive in France. You can exchange money for a nominal fee at
desk, lamp and small closet. Linens are available for purchase a local bank or at any major airport in the US or overseas.
from the dormitory. Some rooms have their own very small
bathroom with sink, toilet and small shower. Debit Card
One of the easiest and least expensive means of obtaining
Security money is at an ATM. If you have a debit card, this money
Unlike dormitories in the US, there is no security personnel or can come directly out of your bank account and you won’t
phone system in the dormitory and there is very little outside have to pay interest as you would with a credit card. This
lighting. Keep your room locked and your belongings secured. is convenient because you don’t have to worry about bank
There have been very few criminal incidents reported at Paul hours and you won’t have to pay commission for converting
Valéry University, but locking your door is a common sense your money. (You will, however, most likely be charged a
measure that will help to ensure personal and property safety. withdrawal fee.) We recommend you bring a duplicate card
in case you have a problem with your magnetic strip, as
Internet frequently happens, or your card is lost.
Some dorm buildings have Internet access and some do not. Make sure your PIN is a numerical code with four digits.
As students may be placed in different buildings, students Keypads in Europe do not have letters or have them in a
cannot rely on Internet access at the dormitory. See the different order than key pads in the US and won’t accept
“Communication” section for further information on Internet more than four digits. Contact your bank for information
access. on obtaining a card, to find out if your card can be used
internationally, and to find out if there are any fees associated
Cooking Facilities with international use.
Each floor of the dormitory has a rudimentary kitchen which
typically consists only of a hot plate. In most cases, students Credit Cards
prepare breakfast in their rooms and eat at the local University You can also withdraw money or make purchases with a Visa
cafeteria for both lunch and dinner. Thus, all summer and credit card (ask your bank if you will be able to use your card
semester students in the dormitory will need to be certain in France and the rest of Europe). A credit card is also a good
to budget sufficient funds for meals. Cafeteria meals are resource for emergency situations. When using a credit card,
approximately $5 per meal. remember that interest is charged and the purchase price is
converted from Euros to dollars based on the exchange rate
the day the purchase is posted on your account in the US, not
Money Matters the day you make the purchase.
Personal spending habits vary too greatly to state exactly
how much it will cost to live in France during the program.
Bank Account
The amount of money students spend depends on three Academic Year students can open an account at a local bank
main factors: your personal spending habits, the amount of in Montpellier. It can take up to a month to obtain checks for
traveling you plan to do, and the value of the dollar. To assist your account. Semester and summer students do not typically
in your financial planning, review the budget estimates on need a bank account or do not find it worthwhile to complete
the website: www.UMabroad.umn.edu/programs/europe/ the administrative processes required to establish an account.
montpellier/budget.shtml.
Travelers Checks
It is best to have a variety of methods to carry and obtain cash
overseas. Bring cash and a debit card, in case one method is The Learning Abroad Center does not recommend bringing
not working on a particular day. You should also bring a blank travelers checks to France. While they are a safer form of
US check with you if you hope to purchase items such as cell money than cash, they can only be cashed at a bank during
phones or hair dryers from a previous student. regular business hours and therefore are not very convenient.
However, travelers checks are another way to diversify your
forms of money while abroad so you could put a few in the
The Euro
bottom of your suitcase for an emergency fund.
As part of the European Union, France’s currency is the Euro
(€). The official abbreviation for the Euro is EUR. Note that Wiring Money
the value of the dollar has been fluctuating rapidly lately. You
can check the exchange rate at: www.xe.com. The Learning Abroad Center does not recommend wiring
money from the US as the fees for this service are very high.
It is more convenient to have your parents transfer money
13
directly into your bank account. However, in an emergency, laptops during such a short duration overseas. Most students
it would be a good idea to understand how the wiring system travel before, during, or after the program, and keeping a
works. All French post offices are Western Unions but using laptop safe can be challenging. Students in homestays should
this service should be your final emergency option. not use their laptops at the host family due to the high cost
of electricity and the fact that any internet use may block the
Safeguarding Your Money & Documents host family’s telephone line, although it is now more and more
Be careful with your money. Pickpockets do exist and common to have the telephone line separate from the internet.
generally hit when you are in a crowd. Another common Students in apartments and dormitories should consider the
place to lose money to thieves is on trains when traveling at possible security risks. If you do decide to take your laptop to
night. A money belt is a good idea to have when traveling. If France, ensure that your electrical cord has a surge protector
your money is lost or stolen, CISI can assist you in obtaining box and will adjust to European voltage. You will also need an
emergency cash or traveler’s check replacements. adapter for the outlet. We also encourage students to be sure
their laptop is covered by an insurance policy.
Communications Telephone
France is six to seven hours ahead of the United States (CST).
Mail You will need a special card to call from public phone booths.
Airmail between the US and France takes seven to ten days. International calls can be placed using an international calling
Surface mail takes six to eight weeks. Surface mail is a good card. Both cards can be purchased from the post office or
way to send items you may not need immediately, because tabac stores (ask for the best rate to the US). You may also
it is inexpensive and allows you to travel with a lighter load use an AT&T or MCI calling card to call the US if you
initially. When sending postcards, place them in an envelope, have one. Check with the company for international access
as they will be processed much more quickly, and this will codes, however, as 800 numbers do not work overseas. The
ensure their delivery to the US. The rate, however, is cheaper advantage to a US calling card, if not pre-paid, is that it is easy
if you send the postcard alone. to call the US and have someone in the US pay your bill. The
rates, however, can be high. Some US long distance companies
Computers also have special monthly international calling plans, which
can save your friends and family members additional money if
Access to computers in France is much more limited than they plan to call you in France on a regular basis.
in the US. On the Paul Valéry campus, the computers for
student use are generally older than the models you currently
Cell Phones
use. The computer building is only open during business
hours and you may need to reserve a time slot to work on The Learning Abroad Center requires semester and year
the web. At the batîment informatique you may purchase students to have a cell phone local to the country in which they
an account for approximately 15 Euros for the year. The are studying. It is optional for summer students. Once you
computers in this building are newer and faster. Finally, arrive in Montpellier, you can either purchase a new cell phone
the program office has wireless access about ten computers or buy a used one left by previous students. All used cell phones
for student use. These computers are strictly intended for will be on display at the program office with an addressed,
academic use. Due to the limited number of computers and stamped envelope. If you would like to purchase a used cell
the volume of participants on the program, do not expect the phone, bring a blank US check with you to mail to the previous
office computers to be your main computer resource. Overall, student. You can also have your parents send a check from the
it is important that you be prepared for more limited access to US, which is usually easier. The Learning Abroad Center is not
computers and email. The program office does have wireless, responsible for the condition of the used cell phones, but they
and students can access the internet via their laptop for free. are significantly less expensive than a new phone.
There are a couple of other options for you to use email: one Communicating with Your Family
is to find an internet café, where you can pay for your time on
Before you leave, you and your family should read as much
email and perhaps receive a membership for a reduced price;
as possible about where you are going in order to gain some
another is to go to La Poste in the center of town, where you
perspective about the experience. This might include reading
can also buy time to use a computer.
guidebooks, international newspapers, magazines, novels,
There is wireless availability on campus and at some cafés. It plays, poetry and political and economic analyses. You may
is, however, much more limited than in the US. also want to talk to international students and returned
students who have been where you are going.
Laptops You may not be able to call home immediately upon arrival,
It is helpful to bring a laptop for word processing and personal as this may be too inconvenient, complex, or difficult. Please
use. Students should consider the security risks involved with share this reality with your family before departure.
14
During certain phases of adjustment, your friends and family
should be prepared to receive calls or correspondence in which
FERPA
you complain and talk about how frustrating everything is in It is important to be aware that the Learning Abroad Center
the host country. While these feelings should be taken seriously, and the Office of Student Finance, in compliance with
students abroad tend to call and write home when things are the Federal Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of
not going so well and do not call or write when things are going 1974 (FERPA) and Regents policy, cannot share financial
well; share the many new and exciting experiences you are information with a third party (including parents, spouse,
having as well—offer an honest balanced report. guardians, etc.) without your written permission. You can
download a Student Information Release Authorization at
onestop.umn.edu. Complete the form and send it to OneStop
Working Abroad & Work Permits Student Services, 200 Fraser Hall, 106 Pleasant St. SE,
Minneapolis, MN 55455. The Learning Abroad Center must
Students on study abroad programs should give careful receive a copy of a notarized Power of Attorney form in order
consideration to the practicality of working while to share any program-specific information.
participating in the program. In most countries it is not
possible to work when entering with a student visa.
Full-time students who plan to stay beyond the end of their
Academics
program may be able to obtain a work permit through a
variety of work permit programs, depending on the country. See the Learning Abroad Center’s website for academic
Students often find this a useful way to complement policies: www.UMabroad.umn.edu/policies/academic/
their study program and extend their stay. Students going index.hmtl
abroad with the specific goal of working should work with
a permit program or obtain all necessary documentation Program Tracks
before departing for their destination. Information on work
The Study Abroad in Montpellier program offers two tracks:
opportunities can be found at the Learning Abroad Center.
the Language and Culture program taught at the Institute,
and the Integrated Studies option. An overview of the
Teaching Assistantships integrated course options is listed in the appendix of this
Working abroad, in general, is not possible during your studies. handbook. More detailed information on both tracks can be
In the past, some students have applied for the high school found at: www.umabroad.umn.edu/programs/EUROPE/
teaching assistantships offered by the French government. If you Montpellier/academics.shtml
are considering this option, be certain to inform the Learning
Abroad Center in advance of your intentions and be careful to
consider the challenges of maintaining teaching assistantship University of Montpellier
responsibilities in addition to a full course load. The Learning
Abroad Center does not manage or assist with the assistantship The University of Montpellier consists of several campuses
placement or application. In general, the assistantships can be with a total student population of over 70,000 students:
a very valuable experience and can provide a rare opportunity the humanities campus, the law school, medical school,
to engage in secondary school life in France. At the same science and engineering school, and the business school.
time, some students discovered that they did not like working Most of your classes will be at Paul Valéry University, the
with high school students, the rigors of regular attendance, or humanities campus of the University of Montpellier. Paul
assistant teaching, and it is important to consider these matters Valéry University is one of the most prestigious universities
before applying for the assistantship. Dropping an assistantship on the French Mediterranean coast. It admits over 19,000
once overseas can be difficult for the participating schools. If students, representing more than 100 nationalities. For more
you apply for the assistantship, you should apply for a part-time information on Paul Valéry University, visit: www.univ
placement (six hours per week) and you need to ensure that montp3.fr.
you are placed in Montpellier, Béziers, Nîmes, Lunel, or Sète. Occasionally students on the integrated program may take
No other locations will be allowed. For the four destinations classes at one of the other campuses of the University of
listed above outside of Montpellier, you need to be prepared Montpellier. Students in business or engineering, for example,
for the cost and time of a train ride (up to 30 minutes one- may have a class on another campus if they wish to take a
way). Students engaged in this assistantship should consult the specialized course that is not available among the Paul Valéry
French embassy or consulate in the US for information on the University course offerings. The start and end dates for the
nomination and visa process and will enroll in the Montpellier other campus may vary slightly from the Paul Valéry program
program’s internship course once on-site. dates, and students taking courses outside of the humanities
should be prepared for this flexibility.
15
Lack of space is an on-going problem at universities in France. The on-site staff will establish a deadline for dropping and adding
Consequently, you will have classes in a variety of classroom courses for the Integrated option without penalty. After this
spaces. Some may be quite modern while others will be less deadline, students will receive a “W” for any dropped courses on
attractive. French students do not eat or drink in class, and the Integrated option up to the final drop/add deadline.
Americans are often accused of being messy, because they
bring food to class and then leave empty cans and wrappers After the final deadline to drop a course has passed but prior
behind. Be considerate of these cultural differences and refrain to the final exam, semester students may drop a course only
from bringing food items to class. with special permission. Students wishing to drop a course
must consult with the on-site staff and complete a special
request form to adjust their enrollment. The form will be
Registration forwarded to the University of Minnesota for approval.
Generally, only in the case of extenuating circumstances
You will have two registrations: one that takes place prior to (sustained illness, for example) will a student be allowed
departure and one that occurs on site. All students will register permission to drop a course after the mid-semester deadline.
at the University of Minnesota for (1) a block of foreign Approved requests will be recorded on the transcript with
studies credits and (2) the optional online Global Identity a grade of W. No requests may be submitted after the final
course prior to departure. University of Minnesota—Twin exam. In some cases, a student’s home university may not
Cities students will register themselves for both courses. The allow a student to withdraw from a course and will record an
Learning Abroad Center will register all non-University of F in lieu of a W. It is a student’s responsibility to check the
Minnesota students and students attending other University policies of their home institution.
of Minnesota campuses. Late fees will be applied to your
account if you do not register yourself in a timely manner. Drop/add deadlines do not apply to the summer program or
the Language and Culture option, which have a set curriculum.
Integrated semester or academic year students will indicate
course interest on the Course Registration and Interest Coursework
Form prior to departure. See the website for a listing of
topics available and courses taken by program students in You will take a variety of courses in Montpellier at Paul Valéry
the past. www.UMabroad.umn.edu/programs/EUROPE/ University. Review the website for the program options and
montpellier/academics.shtml. detailed information on course options. If you have additional
questions, contact the Learning Abroad Center staff.
Courses for the Language & Culture semester option and the
Intensive French summer option have been pre-approved for Often there may be no specific homework assignments until
specific University of Minnesota classes. The Course Registration the final exam at the end of the course. Professors may not
& Interest Form that you will fill out prior to departure indicates explain materials distributed to students. It is the student’s
what will appear on your University of Minnesota transcript. See responsibility to review the materials and prepare for the next
the website for a listing of these courses. class session. In general, the French academic system is much
more independent than that of the US. Instead of assigning
Students on the Advanced French summer program have two homework, professors expect that students will independently
pre-approved courses. study the material. Therefore, even though you may not have
assignments to complete or much direction in your courses,
you should still study the material covered in class and do
Dropping & Adding Courses your own research to learn more about the course topics.
Students are expected to maintain a course registration of a
Past students have noted that some courses do not have formal
minimum of 15 credits per semester (including the optional
syllabi, and even in those that do, professors are at liberty to
Global Identity course) and 4–5 credits per summer session.
alter the syllabus as they wish. Consequently, you may initially
A semester student may drop to 13 credits with the approval
feel frustrated and uncertain about grading procedures.
of the onsite director and if the student maintains enrollment
in all required program courses. At no time may a semester Because French courses are less structured than US courses it is
student’s enrollment fall below a minimum course load of 12 up to you to develop good study habits. The success rate in the
credits. Students with fewer than 12 credits will be dismissed French system is relatively low overall, and students are expected
from the program. Students may not drop courses that the to be independent learners. Study abroad students who succeed
program stipulates are a required component of the program. are those who do the required class work, study diligently on
All course registration changes may have financial aid their own, and take responsibility for their own learning.
implications. Students are responsible for understanding the
financial aid consequences of changing their enrollment.
16
You may also find the system confusing, as there are no
comprehensive course bulletins, and the scheduling of classes
Grades & Transcripts
often takes place just before classes begin. As a result, you The professors in France will give you grades according to
need to have patience and flexibility, and you must take the the French system, which is significantly different from the
initiative to design your academic program. While the on- grading system used in the US. You will be given a number
site staff facilitate registration and provide general guidance, grade out of a total of 20 for each assignment. This number
they cannot adjust the French system to US standards and does not necessarily indicate the number correct, but is rather
expectations. an evaluation of the work on a scale of 1–20. The grades will
be translated to the US system in the following manner:
There are several things you can do that will help you to
maximize the experience of being immersed in the French Institute for Foreign Students (IEE) Classes and Special
educational system: Courses for Americans
• Be patient and flexible. French University of
• Take initiative in planning your academic program before Grade Minnesota Grade
you leave and while you are abroad. (1–20) (A-F)
• Attend the weekly meetings and read the newsletters 15.1–20.0 A
prepared by the on-site staff.
14.1–15.0 A-
• Practice self-discipline and adapt to cultural differences in
13.6–14.0 B+
academic and social circumstances.
12.6–13.5 B
• Take a self-reliant approach with your learning. You bear
the responsibility for what you learn. 12.1–12.5 B-
• Introduce yourself to your professors at the beginning of 11.6–12.0 C+
the term. 10.6–11.5 C
• Approach your professors if you need clarification on 10.1–10.5 C-
course material. 8.1–10.0 D
• Develop and maintain good study habits throughout your 1.0–8.0 F
time on the program.
Integrated Courses at Paul Valéry University
Books & Materials
French University of
You will have access to library books at Paul Valéry University for
Grade Minnesota Grade
situations where research is necessary. More information on use of
the library will be provided once you arrive in Montpellier. (1–20) (A-F)
11.6–20.0 A
Any required books will be purchased in Montpellier,
although most courses do not require that you purchase books. 10.1–11.5 A-
However, you should bring a French-English dictionary, a verb 9.6–10.0 B+
conjugation book, and a grammar review book. 8.6–9.5 B
You can purchase notebooks or paper in France. They are 8.1–8.5 B-
usually more expensive than US products but are also a small 7.6–8.0 C+
part of the cultural experience that you can take home with
6.6–7.5 C
you. If you are concerned about saving money on supplies,
bring notebooks from home. 6.1–6.5 C-
4.1–6.0 D
0.0–4.0 F
Exams
W—Withdrawal; student has withdrawn from the course and
It is not possible to take exams early at the end of the
will not receive a grade
program. Be prepared to stay until the end of the term listed
on the program calendar. Students who leave early may not NR—Not Reported; grade not received from the faculty
receive credit for their studies. If you are taking integrated member
classes, make sure you are aware of the time and place of
your final exams. Faculty members do not waive exams for I—Incomplete; granted only in case of approved request
students, and a missed exam can cause you to fail the course.
17
The on-site staff, under guidance from the Learning Abroad a University of Minnesota transcript. As mentioned previously,
Center, reserves the right to adjust grades for Integrated one transcript will be issued at the end of the program to all
courses should the grading scale of the professor vary greatly non-University of Minnesota students. The transcript will be
from the standardized system. This will be done on a case- sent to the address you listed on the Transcript Request Form.
by-case basis and will not necessarily affect the grades of This form should be completed and returned to the Learning
other students in the course. The on-site staff will pay special Abroad Center prior to the start of the program. Check with
attention to comments and recommendations provided by your study abroad office for the current address to list on your
the professor on the grade sheet in order to determine the Transcript Request Form. It will take approximately three to
translation of a final course grade. four months after the program ends for your grades to appear
on a University of Minnesota transcript.
Effort does not assure you a good grade. Just as in the US, you
will earn a grade based on effort and ability, and you should French professors do not always return grade information
not expect an A just because you worked hard. to the on-site staff in a timely manner. If a course is missing
from your transcript or if you have questions about your
Incomplete Grades coursework as it is listed, contact the Learning Abroad Center.
Students are expected to complete all course requirements by It can take up to six months to correct errors in a transcript
the end of the term. In the case of extenuating circumstances, if we need to consult with any of the faculty overseas.
students may be able to request an incomplete, if the faculty Particularly over the summer, faculty are not on campus
member and the on-site director will allow it. In general, in France. The Learning Abroad Center will not send your
Paul Valéry University does not allow incompletes, and official transcript until all of your grades have been given.
any incompletes that are granted are typically due within If you are planning to graduate or apply to graduate school after
one week. Consult with the on-site director and complete the program ends, the Learning Abroad Center cannot expedite
a Request for Incomplete Form. The approval form will the grade process and you will need to plan for this delay.
include a faculty signature and timeline for completion of
the course requirements. At no time may the timeline for Academic year students: If need your fall semester grades prior
completion exceed 12 weeks. Students who fail to complete to the end of your program, you will need to make special
their assignments within an approved incomplete timeline arrangements with the Learning Abroad Center. Fall semester
will receive a grade of F. In some cases, a student’s university grades are generally available after March 15. University of
may not allow grades of incomplete and will record an F. It is Minnesota students can get an unofficial student copy free of
a student’s responsibility to check with their home institution charge at the Office of the Registrar.
to see if they will allow a grade of I. Students who fail to It is not possible to issue a transcript directly from Paul Valéry
complete all required course assignments and who have not University, as they do not have a transcript system. All courses
submitted an approved request for incomplete will receive a are reflected on a University of Minnesota transcript. Courses
grade of F. posted on your transcript reflect the courses you listed on the
Drop/Add Form completed on site. It is your responsibility to
Grade Petitions ensure that this form is accurate prior to returning to the US.
Students who wish to question a grade issued for a particular
course after the program is completed must provide evidence These abbreviations will appear following each course title on
that the professor made an error in his/her grade calculation. the official University of Minnesota transcript:
The following are not reasonable grounds for grade appeal: U—Paul Valéry University courses
• Differences between US and host country educational S—Institute for Foreign Students courses
systems P—Presession
A—Special courses for Americans
• Personal disappointment in the grade outcome
• Comparison with one’s own prior academic record/GPA
• Failure to complete one or more assignments Summer Program
• Minimum grade requirement of college/department or Intensive French Summer Program
home university (in the case of non-University of Min-
nesota participants) The Intensive French summer program is based at the
Institute of Foreign Students and focuses solely on intensive
• Health concerns/missed classes French language study. There are five levels of teaching at
the Institute. You will be placed in one of the five levels after
Transcripts language testing and according to your current language
After the program ends, the French courses will be translated abilities. You will receive credit for the next level of French at
into English and the French grades converted to the US the University of Minnesota.
grading system. These courses and grades will then appear on
18
You can expect to be in class from 9 a.m.–noon, Monday On-site Academic Planning
through Friday and some Saturday’s. In addition, you will
While in Montpellier, document your studies. The Learning
have a French culture course two afternoons per week.
Abroad Center does not have syllabi or course descriptions,
Advanced French Summer Program so it will be your responsibility to collect any supporting
information you may need to receive proper credit. These
Students on the Advanced French summer program supporting materials may include: class notes, homework,
begin their studies in June with a topics course on French papers, graded exams, syllabi (if provided), grade reports,
multiculturalism. After the first week, a second language transcripts, course bulletins or catalogs, and certificates of
classes offered at the Institute for Foreign Students is added, participation. Check with your academic adviser to see if there
and students continue with both courses until the end of the are additional materials you should bring back. The Learning
July program. Abroad Center cannot gather this information for you once
the program is completed.
Global Identity: Connecting your Note: Students do not have access to a fax machine on site.
We also ask that US academic and study abroad advisers do
International Experience to your Future not send faxes to students via the onsite director’s fax machine.
This optional, 1-credit online course will provide The on-site director’s fax machine is for emergencies and
opportunities for you to reflect upon your learning abroad program use only. You will need to make arrangements with
experience and prepare you to communicate your intercultural an academic adviser or study abroad adviser to correspond by
competence to future employers, graduate schools, or email regarding your classes.
law schools. As global connectivity becomes increasingly
important, you are asked to think beyond the borders of your On-site Registration
own perception and better understand the world based on Students on the Language and Culture track will not have an
the new ideas and experiences to which you are exposed. Your official registration process on site. They will work with the
ability to work in a multicultural setting and to succeed in program staff to select the appropriate courses.
different cultural contexts is vital to your future. This course
will help you apply these skills to your post-graduation plans. Students on the Integrated track will work with the on-site
The course is taught online with University of Minnesota staff to select courses. Since there are no University course
instructors. Registration information will be provided via catalogs, the on-site staff gather individual course listings
email. More information can be found at: and booklets from all the major departments on campus and
www.UMabroad.umn.edu/academic/globalIdentity/index.html. have them available in the program office. They will help you
match the courses you need to take with the courses that are
offered. You need to be patient with this process, which can
Academic Planning seem quite confusing. If you are interested in taking a course
in a field that is not among the booklets that the on-site staff
Pre-Departure Academic Planning has collected, they will assist you in exploring whether your
Note to University of Minnesota Semester Students: interest can be accommodated, but it can take a couple of
University of Minnesota French majors and minors will weeks to locate that particular departmental course booklet.
meet with the French Department undergraduate advisor Since courses are primarily lecture courses and grading is not
at a special session just prior to the program orientation in based on student participation, you can still enroll in a course
order to discuss course equivalencies to list on the Academic after the first class.
Planning Form. You will be notified by email when this We encourage you to visit a number of integrated courses
meeting has been arranged. If you need to get courses for the first weeks and then decide which courses are most
approved for the French major or minor, you should plan to appropriate for you. The last day to make this decision is by
attend this session. the drop/add deadline on site, which is typically six weeks
In general, French majors and minors will receive credit after the start of the program.
for any upper-division course with French or Francophone Students outside of the humanities should keep in mind that
content in language, linguistics, literature, culture, civilization. most students only take one or two courses in a non-humanities
Summer students and students on the Language and Culture field. In most cases, your level of French is not sufficient to
option register for pre-approved University of Minnesota successfully take a full course load in your area of specialty, and
French language and/or civilization courses that apply towards the courses that you need may also not be offered.
major and minor requirements.
One Time Drop
The University of Minnesota has a “one time drop” policy
that allows a student to drop a course after the mid-semester
19
deadline and prior to the final exam without extenuating
circumstances. The use of the one time drop is restricted
Strike Back-up Plan
to the guidelines above for dropping a course. Students Strikes are a part of life in France and you can expect some
wishing to use the one time drop must consult with the kind of strike to occur during your term abroad. Should the
onsite staff and fill out the special request form to adjust their universities strike, only the integrated courses will be affected.
registration. The form will be forwarded to the University of Courses with the Institute and center-based courses will
Minnesota for approval. Approved requests will be recorded continue uninterrupted. The program in Montpellier does
on the transcript with a grade of W. No requests may be have a backup plan so that students can continue to learn
submitted after the final exam. and earn academic credit. The on-site staff will communicate
the strike plan to students and you should pay careful
Semester and academic year students cannot drop any attention. Students will conduct independent research and
program required courses. Summer program students have a write a research paper that will be figured into your grade.
set curriculum and cannot drop or add any courses. Occasionally some professors will choose to hold class even
during a strike. It is your responsibility to check with your
professor to see if class is still being held.
French Educational System
Semester and academic year students should keep in mind
that professor/student relationships in France will be quite Academic Policy
different from the kind of relationship you may be used Learning Abroad Center’s academic policies are available
to in the US. Professors are not necessarily expected to be online at: www.UMabroad.umn.edu/policies/
attentive to student needs and are rather viewed as academic AcademicPolicies.html.
experts who provide students with insights into the topic of
the course. As a result, professors are highly regarded and Montpellier program participants are responsible for reviewing
command a great deal of respect. The class format is often a and understanding the following policy guidelines.
lecture, and professors have limited office hours. While this
teaching style usually requires some adjustment at first, it is Students who wish to question a grade issued for a particular
important to remain open to the differences between cultures course after the program is completed must provide evidence
and realize the advantages that this new system has to offer. that the professor made an error in his/her grade calculation.
For summer program students, classes are generally more Disappointment from a low grade is not sufficient evidence to
interactive and smaller in size. request a grade review. Contact the Learning Abroad Center
to fill out the Grade Petition Form.
The Learning Abroad Center cannot control the quality or
teaching style of the professors in France. The standards which Pass/Fail Option
US students consider “good teaching” in the US cannot be Participants on the integrated program may take Paul Valéry
applied to the French way of teaching. The unique benefit of integrated courses on a pass/fail (S/N) basis. Students must
studying abroad is the opportunity to learn about the French indicate pass/fail with their initial registration. To receive a
academic system: how it is structured, what its strengths grade of S, according to University of Minnesota guidelines,
and weaknesses are, and to learn as much French as possible the course grade must be C- or higher. This option may
during your time in Montpellier. be attractive, as integrated courses can be very challenging.
All professors who teach courses on this program are However, it is your responsibility to check with your home
University of Montpellier faculty. institution and your major/minor departments prior to
departure to determine whether S grades for your coursework
in Montpellier will be accepted. There will be no grade-base
(A/F or S/N) changes after the drop/add deadline overseas.
Students will also take the optional Global Identity:
Connecting your International Experience to your Future
course pass/fail.
All other courses for all program options must be taken on an
A-F basis.
Optional Course Paper
Students on the academic year or semester Integrated
option have the option of writing an additional paper for an
20
integrated course in order to increase the chances of receiving especially its medical school. Its economic and political
a passing grade (C-/S), assuming that you have completed importance has increased in recent years by its appointment
all coursework for the course and that the professor supports as regional capital of the new Languedoc-Roussillon region
factoring in this additional paper. You must speak with the and by the massive influx of North African immigrants it has
on-site staff and complete this paper prior to the end of the absorbed.
semester.
Montpellier, founded in the 10th century, is a young town
All students are strongly encouraged to write the extra paper by the standards of the region. Unlike many of its neighbors,
to factor into their integrated course grade. Since Paul Valéry Montpellier is not a Roman town. Its first moment of glory
University courses do not have continuous feedback and often came in the Middle Ages when it was a station along the
only have a final exam, it is very difficult to anticipate your pilgrimage route to St. Jacques de Compostelle in Spain.
grade. Many students are surprised by their low grade if they
rely only on the final exam for their full course grade. During the Reformation in the 16th century (when the
Protestant religions were first founded), Montpellier became a
The additional paper cannot be used to augment a passing Protestant stronghold; even today such towns as Montpellier
grade. Once the program is over, grades cannot be changed. and Nîmes have important Protestant populations. Whereas
Protestants in the US tend to be conservative, in France
Student Grievances they represent a minority population with long-time rebel
Academic grievances are complaints brought by students tendencies. This liberal tradition accounts in part for the
regarding the provision of education and academic support predominance of the Socialist Party in the region.
services affecting their role as students. For grievances Because of this history of religious rebellion, Montpellier
concerning University of Minnesota sponsored or cosponsored lost most of its medieval churches, with the exception of the
learning abroad programs offered through the Learning cathedral. In compensation, it has the oldest Botanical Garden
Abroad Center, students should make inquiries and appeals (Jardin des Plantes) in France, bestowed upon it by Henri IV
to the appropriate University officials, in the following order: (the Protestant king), and it became in the 17th and 18th
the program representative in the Learning Abroad Center, the centuries the object of some splendid architectural planning,
Director of the Learning Abroad Center, the Student Dispute which has given lasting character to the center city (Esplanade,
Resolution Center, and the Office of the General Counsel. Promenade du Peyrou, many mansions). Montpellier is also a
For complaints concerning non-University of Minnesota noted art center containing several famous museums (Musée
programs, students should make appeals to the program Fabre, Musée Atger, Musée d’archéologie).
sponsor.
Montpellier is a vibrant, student-friendly city near the
Mediterranean Sea and Cevennes Mountains. Visit the
Life in France
Montpellier tourism website for information on sites and
activities in the area: www.ot-montpellier.fr/en/heritage/.
Meals
Geography & Climate
Breakfast, le petit déjeuner, is continental style including a
Montpellier has a much more moderate climate than croissant with jam, and either chocolat chaud or café. For a few
Minnesota, and the winter season is much shorter. However, Euros you can go to a café and order a café (café crème, café au
this is not a tropical climate, and students frequently are lait, or express; or a chocolat chaud) and a croissant or a tartine
surprised to find that coats and sweaters are necessary. au beurre.
Average afternoon high temperatures Lunch, déjeuner, is usually served between 12:30 p.m. and
2 p.m.. If you are living with a host family, you are responsible
Oct Jan Apr July for providing your own lunch during the week. Businesses in
F 61 30 59 75 smaller cities close from noon to 2 p.m., and sometimes until
C 16 -1 20 24 3 p.m.
Dinner is rarely served before 7:30 p.m. and is generally not
as heavy as lunch. It may consist typically of soup, an omelet
Life in Montpellier or quiche, followed by salad, fruit, and cheese. Fast food is
Montpellier is a city of over 2 million inhabitants in the available, but you may be happy to hear that bread and wine
département of Hérault, ten miles from the Mediterranean are considered staples by the French Government and are
coast and about 125 miles from the Spanish border. It is therefore subsidized, which makes them extremely affordable.
now the capital of the region called Languedoc-Roussillon.
Montpellier has been famous for centuries for its university,
21
Cheese and pâtés are also very affordable. With your proof of credit. More information can be found in the Academics
enrollment at the Paul Valéry University, you will be able to section. It is also important that students stay in touch with
purchase tickets for a cafeteria-style meal in a one of several their parents at home and keep them calm. The US media can
restaurants universitaires at Paul Valéry University for about over-dramatize French strikes, and parents at home may find
3 Euros. it difficult to assess student safety. In all cases, the Learning
Abroad Center on-site staff ensure that students remain as safe
Be an adventurous eater. French cuisine is famous throughout as possible during these events. It is important for students
the world and each part of France is justly proud of its own to follow Learning Abroad Center staff instructions during
distinct regional specialties. In southern France, the Spanish these strikes, stay away from demonstrations, and avoid over-
and Italian influence often calls for cooking with olive oil dramatizing these events to friends and family members at
and tomatoes. Herbs and flavorings used mainly in Provençal home.
cooking are garlic and onion, rosemary, thyme, basil, sage, and
saffron. Fish and seafood are regional specialties due to the
Relationships
proximity of the Mediterranean. Montpellier’s own specialty is
beurre de Montpellier, a green butter made by mixing ordinary Remember that in any type of sexual relationship you are at
butter with garlic and herbs. risk for a sexually transmitted disease or AIDS. Know a person
very well before developing a more intimate relationship, and
Tipping always demand that you both take necessary precautions and
practice safe sex. The following vocabulary is provided for
The tip is generally included in the bill in French restaurants your safety:
and cafés. The term service compris or prix net indicates
that the tip has been included in the total cost and no Les maladies sexuelles sexually transmitted diseases
additional tip is necessary. However, it is customary to leave
La pharmacie drugstore
an additional one to three Euros, unless you received poor
service. The French do not tip bartenders. Un préservatif a condom
Le SIDA AIDS
Electricity & Water
Americans have been targeted by individuals interested in
Electrical current runs at 220 volts, so US electrical appliances gaining a US passport through marriage. Be very careful about
made to run on 110 volts will not work unless you bring a romantic relationships, and do not act quickly to formalize
convertor. Convertors are not recommended for appliances any relationship. Americans tend to be very naive about these
such as hair dryers or curling irons as the current transition issues and our students have been used in the process and
can cause them to spark or burn out. married unwittingly.
These appliances may be purchased inexpensively upon
arrival.
Entertainment
Electricity in France is very expensive, so people tend to use
There are many festivals (fêtes), especially in the spring and
much less of it. People are careful to turn on only the lights
summer. These events usually include markets, carnivals, or folk
they really need and always turn off the lights before leaving
dancing. Montpellier has many points of cultural and historical
a room. Be careful not to overload circuit breakers and risk
interest. It is also within an hour’s train ride from other popular
blowing fuses.
tourist areas. If, on the other hand, you are looking for an
Most French houses do not have an unlimited supply of hot active nightlife, the place to go in the city is near the Place de
water (heated by expensive gas or electricity), so taking a long la Comédie, a large square right in Centre Ville. There you will
shower may mean that no one else in the family will get a find bars, cafés, and entertainment. Past students have highly
shower until the water heater has had a chance to re-supply recommended the Médiathèque Fredrico Fellini, which is a
itself. library of film and music. Student memberships are very cheap
and movies and CDs are available in any language. Watching
Strikes French movies is great for language comprehension and many
of these films are difficult to find in the US.
French workers’ unions can go on strike in order to
demonstrate against work policies with which they are
dissatisfied. This can include university professors and
administrators, the post office, the bus system, the rail
Extra-Curricular Activities
system, airport workers—even students. Be prepared for this Paul Valéry University has its own sports program and facility.
possibility and be flexible about your travel plans and activities In Montpellier you will also find a sports park that includes
should this occur. If a strike at the universities occurs, only a running course. The most popular individual activity is
the integrated courses will be affected. Program staff have a hiking through the Cévennes (the mountain region in which
contingency plan so that students can still receive academic Montpellier is located). The area is too hilly for bicycling,
22
but you will be close to the beach for other activities. Other Biking/Rollerblading
activities include dancing, skiing, swimming, rugby, and
Montpellier is very accepting of bikers and biking. If your
soccer, just to name a few.
bike is something that you can’t live without here, you may
There are over 1,000 athletic clubs (either at the University appreciate having one abroad. Many students have found it
Paul Valéry or sports) available to students. The cost is 15 fairly easy to purchase a used bike in Montpellier. Used bikes
Euros for sports insurance at the University. Private clubs will are advertised for sale in the area newspaper and are posted
be approximately 300 Euros per year. Additionally, there is at the University. They are also for sale at the flea market.
an Olympic swimming pool in downtown Montpellier that Once you are in Montpellier, ask the on-site staff for more
is available all day for swimming for 5 Euros per visit. Sports information. Alternatively, TaM rents bicycles for long
available at Paul Valéry and through the private clubs include (25 €/3 mo. with tram pass) or short (2€/day) term.
volleyball, badminton, swimming, basketball, baseball, soccer,
Although a few past students have brought roller blades, it is
Tai Chi, skiing, skating, sailing, hiking, weight rooms, martial
not as common in Montpellier as it is here, and it is currently
arts, racquetball, and squash. For students interested in music,
banned in certain areas of the city. If you are a rollerblade fan,
there are several local bands (jazz, classical, etc.), and private
however, you may feel that it is still worth having them there.
lessons are possible. These options can be discussed with the
on-site staff once you are in France.
Social & Cultural Adjustments
Local Transportation As a student in France, you will need to take the initiative
to meet people. The program’s cultural activities can provide
You will find it easy to get around Montpellier either on
a forum for meeting people, but it is up to you to take
foot, by bus, or tram. Once in France, the on-site staff will
advantage of this opportunity and start a conversation. Just as
assist you in getting a free University Paul Valéry student
you have an established circle of friends in the US, the French
identification card, which will allow you to purchase
also have established friends and habits. Don’t be afraid to
discounted tickets for the bus and tram. The same ticket can
start a conversation and to pursue contact in order to meet
be used for the bus or tram, and you can purchase them on-
new people and, of course, utilize your French language.
board, or at distributeurs automatiques. The monthly pass costs
approximately 30 Euros. Bring your passport and an extra Cultural differences regarding the role of women can be
passport photo at the time of purchase. challenging for female participants. While striving to remain
culturally sensitive, women have nonetheless been dismayed by
Bus incidents of harassment (“cat calls”), seeming attempts by host
There are several lines that serve the entire city. Most bus families to control their actions (hours kept, places frequented,
lines in Montpellier only offer service until 8 p.m. There friends chosen) and a general feeling of being watched and even
are two lines that run until 1 a.m., but they do not serve all judged in public. Be prepared to find your US feminist values
suburbs. In addition, bus drivers have been known to go on and understanding of the world challenged daily.
strike rather frequently. This may be relevant for students
living with host families in the suburbs who wish to go out Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, & Transgender Issues
a lot, although there is now a tram that runs until quite late Attitudes towards sexuality vary greatly from country to
at night. There are various ways to get around this; walking country. Some cultures are open about homosexuality, and
with friends, bicycling, getting a ride with a French friend, strong gay communities exist in many cities. However,
or sharing a taxi fare with friends that live in the same area. some cultures and peoples are intolerant of different sexual
Walking alone at night, especially for women, is not a good preferences, and strict taboos or laws against such relationships
idea. It is also advised that students avoid being alone in the may exist. We encourage you to find out how different sexual
train station after dark. preferences are viewed overseas and where your support may
exist, so that your time overseas can be as enriching as possible.
Tram
For additional resources, you can contact the Office for Equity
There are now two lines in Montpellier. The Line 1 runs and Diversity at www.academic.umn.edu/equity.
from southeast to northwest, and Line 2 from southwest
to northeast. The tram is easy to use and runs Monday In general, the French are much more at ease with the idea of
through Sunday, from 6 a.m. until midnight Sunday through sexuality, although they are not as blatant about it; it is merely
Thursday and until 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. a part of them. In the same way, while there is certainly a
Refer to the Transports de l’agglomération de Montpellier (TaM) strong gay community in certain parts of France, in general,
homepage at www.montpellier-agglo.com/tam for complete individuals who are gay are not as verbal about their sexuality
information on bus and tram routes, schedules, maps, fares, as in the US, and some people may not be as tolerant of
and more. different sexual preferences. It is important, therefore, to
notify the Learning Abroad Center if you are gay, lesbian or
23
Coming Home
bisexual or to state this on your housing form so that staff
can identify a supportive housing placement for you. There
have been very successful placements in the past, but it has
been important for the student to notify the Learning Abroad
Center in advance. For specific information and resources By the time you return home from France, you will have
regarding gay, lesbian and bisexual issues and study abroad, grown and changed significantly. You will probably find
contact the Learning Abroad Center or visit the GLBT section yourself experiencing reverse culture shock. Many students
of the website: www.UMabroad.umn.edu/students/glbt. find that returning home is harder than leaving was. It is very
html. There are guidebooks and many websites that address normal to experience these feelings and you aren’t alone. You
a variety of issues and concerns of gay, lesbian, and bisexual are encouraged to tap into the resources available in order to
travelers. In addition, your local libraries may also have make the transition home easier.
resources of interest to you. To stay connected to your study abroad experience, you may
want to:
• Talk with other study abroad participants
• Become a classroom visit intern
• Assist with future Montpellier orientations
Stop by the Learning Abroad Center any time. We enjoy
talking to students who have returned from study abroad.
Finally, visit the Returned Students section of our website,
at: www.UMabroad.umn.edu/students/returnedStudents/
index.html.
Students with Disabilities
In general, French culture is not as sensitive to the needs
of people with disabilities as American culture, but the
government has official policies and laws regarding equality of
rights, and Montpellier is becoming increasingly accessible for
individuals with disabilities.
Montpellier’s tram is fully accessible, and a local organization
provides wheelchair-accessible van service within city limits
for a reasonable fee.
There is a disability services office on the Paul Valéry
University campus. Its services are free to students registered
at Paul Valéry (semester or academic year students) and
includes many adaptive technologies (scanner, Braille printer,
text magnification software, large screen for magnified print,
cassette tape recorder, and adaptive keyboard and mouse).
Adapted course materials are available through UPV’s
disability service.
The Disability Services website for UPV can be found at:
http://www.univ-montp3.fr/saeh/index.htm (in French only).
24
Cultural Adjustment
A sense of isolation sets in. Boredom and a lack of motivation
often follow. Unresolved personal issues often surface during
this stage.
The On-Site Experience Integration/Acceptance: After continued effort you find
What happens when you suddenly lose clues and symbols that yourself more at ease with language, friends, professional, and
orient you to situations in everyday life? What happens when academic interests. The culture you are living in is more easily
facial expressions, gestures, and words are unfamiliar? The examined. Differences between yourself and the society you
psychological discomfort and adjustment period in a foreign live in become understandable and you come to accept both
country is commonly known as culture shock or cultural the situation and yourself in it, allowing you to relax and feel
adjustment. at home.
You will almost certainly experience some form of culture Return Anxiety: Just when you feel at home in the new
shock. It might hit you after two days, two weeks or two country it’s time to go. Thoughts of leaving new friends raise
months—timing varies widely for different people. Six anxiety similar to those felt before departure. You sense that
common phases of cultural adjustment are listed below. These you’ve changed as a person and apprehension grows when you
may be out of order for you, one phase may last longer than think about people at home that may not understand your
another or you may skip a step entirely. new feelings and insights, yet you may feel guilty for wanting
to stay.
Initial Fascination: On arrival your surroundings seem
glamorous and exotic, you feel like the focus of attention and When in any of the above phases you may experience: changes
activity. in sleeping habits, feelings of helplessness or hopelessness,
loneliness, depression, unexplainable crying, placing blame
Initial Culture Shock: The initial fascination and euphoria for difficulties on the program or host culture, homesickness,
fade as you settle in and you enter an emotional decline. getting angry easily, increase in physical ailments or pain,
compulsive eating or lack of appetite.
Surface Adjustment: After the initial “down” (a few days to a
few weeks for most), you begin to truly adjust and settle into Other symptoms may manifest themselves as well. It is
your surroundings. Language skills begin to improve, and important to understand these are part of a normal process
you’ll feel less fatigued. Often you’ll be forming a small group of adjustment, however, if uncomfortable feelings persist for
of friends at this stage as well. extended periods or seem unbearable, seek assistance from
your programs onsite support staff.
Feelings of Isolation: Difficulties in your new culture seem to
stubbornly remain and you grow frustrated with the process.
Departure Return
Low Comfort and Satisfaction High
Initial Surface Integration/
Fascination Adjustment Acceptance
Re-entry
Adjustment
Return
Anticipating Anxiety
Departure
Initial
Culture Shock
Feelings of
Isolation
Home Culture Host Culture Home Culture
Cultural Adjustment Curve
Adjusted from Oberg (1960) and Gallahorn (1963)
25
Appendix Internships
Internships offer the unique opportunity to experience the
French work environment and further immerse yourself into
life in Montpellier. The unpaid internship along with the
Class Types classroom component is offered for three semester credits.
Integrated Studies participants choose classes from the Students will be interviewed by program staff upon arrival
following four types depending on their language ability. and will receive credit for the internship for one semester.
Academic year students can continue with their internship
1. Special Courses for Americans placement in the second semester but will not receive credit.
These courses are for U.S students only and are designed to The mandatory course, The World of Work, enables students
meet their particular needs. Classes are offered on a semester to reflect on the French work environment while engaging in
basis. their internship. It combines concepts of French civilization
Students are required to enroll in the grammar and phonetics and an analysis of contemporary French business practices.
or stylistics component. The exact combination of topics The seminar meets two to three hours per week (26 hours
will depend on the individual student’s needs. Academic year during the semester) and is taught by a qualified French
students are encouraged to continue the language sequence instructor. All discussions and assignments are in French.
during the second semester. During spring semester, these are The placement consists of approximately six to eight hours
offered only to Learning Abroad Center students. per week of experience in a work setting over thirteen weeks.
The Special Courses for Americans can be found at: Written requirements for the internship include: gathering a
www.UMabroad.umn.edu/programs/EuroPE/montpellier/ portfolio, keeping a weekly journal, and writing a 10-15 page
americanStudentCourses.html . paper that analyzes an aspect of the work place.
If you plan to use this internship towards major or minor
2. Institute for Foreign Students credit, check with your department for any credit guidelines
These courses are offered for students learning French as a they may have.
foreign language. The Institute is located on campus and is
affiliated with Paul Valéry University. You will be sharing the Note: Internships are unpaid.
classroom with students from around the world. Courses are
divided into semesters. Frequently Asked Questions About Internships
Courses vary from year to year and have been very popular What will I do as an intern?
choices for students. Since they are taught with international Interns are usually given varying responsibilities that provide
students in mind, students find these courses particularly an introduction to the organization and French working
compatible with U.S curricular needs. Most deal with some life. The level of responsibility will depend on any previous
aspect of French civilization, culture, geography, or art history. experience you may have, your French language ability, and
the needs of the organization. It is important to understand
Course descriptions of the most popular Institute for
that, at times, you may perform a variety of tasks including
Foreign courses can be found at: www.UMabroad.umn.edu/
administrative tasks such as filing or answering the phone.
programs/EuroPE/montpellier/foreignStudentCourses.html
Remember, the goal of this experience is to give you the
Most courses award 1.5 semester credits. opportunity to observe the daily workings of a French
organization.
3. Integrated Courses
Am I guaranteed the placement I want?
These courses are with other French students. A variety of
courses and fields are available and are listed online. These Specific placements are not guaranteed. Placements are subject
courses are very challenging, and students must have very to availability and depend on the background and training,
strong language skills. Students typically combine integrated interests, and language ability of students. The appendix
courses with other course options but must take at least one contains examples of past internships.
integrated course.
Can I do the internship only and not the accompanying
Courses are worth one to four credits, depending on the course?
number of contact hours, and are awarded upper or lower
Internships on the Montpellier program are for academic
division credit based on the course content.
credit and require full participation in both the World of
Examples of Integrated Courses students have taken in the Work course and the work-related experience. University of
past can be found at: www.UMabroad.umn.edu/programs/ Minnesota policy requires an internship to have an academic
EuroPE/montpellier/integratedStudentCourses.html component in order to earn credit.
26
If you are interested in non-credit volunteer possibilities,
speak to the on-site staff after your arrival in France.
What forms do I need to participate in an internship?
Applicants must complete the Montpellier Internship
Application, which can be found on the website. Read the
instructions carefully and note that some responses must be
in French. When describing your internship preferences, be
certain to state your interests clearly so that an appropriate
assignment can be made. At the same time, it is important to
indicate a range of interests; not all preferences can be met.
The application, resume, and cover letter must be typed and
well written. Careful proofreading is essential. You may be
asked to make changes if there are typing errors or if your
application is unclear. Please keep in mind that the application
form and other documents may be shared with an interested
company, and it is important, therefore, to be as professional
and clear as possible when responding to the questions. The
professional recommendation must be on letterhead from
your place of employment/service.
Once in Montpellier, students may be asked to meet with the
prospective organization to discuss the internship possibilities
before a placement is confirmed.
What is the application deadline?
Completed internship applications are due in the Learning
Abroad Center by the following dates:
Fall semester & academic year: May 15
Spring semester: November 15
Review and understand the Internship Agreement guidelines
in the appendix before applying.
Will I receive placement information prior to departure?
You will not receive placement information until you arrive
on site.
27
Internship Guidelines
1. As soon as the on-site coordinator receives your
Internship Application, he or she will try to find a
placement within the area you specify, or in a related
field. Internship placements are subject to availability and
to language ability. The final selection process will occur
on-site after a careful review of the application materials,
the candidate’s resume, and an interview.
2. An internship is either a work experience in a business,
academic, or governmental setting, or an experience
in a service organization or volunteer organization.
Your duties for the internship will most likely be very
basic to begin with; clerical and administrative duties
or observation are common. An intern is expected to
demonstrate an acceptable degree of competence and
initiative before being given more meaningful tasks.
3. The accompanying course, The World of Work, is a
mandatory component of the internship program.
4. An internship is to be treated as a professional position.
You must meet your basic responsibilities to the
placement site. If you fail to do so, the internship
coordinator has the right to terminate the internship.
5. The purpose of the internship in Montpellier is to
maximize cultural immersion. Patience and appreciation
of cultural differences are key requirements.
6. Interns are not paid.
7. You will be required to commit to an average of 6-10
hours a week over a period of 14 weeks. The number of
hours may vary according to the needs of the site. Exact
scheduling will be worked out with your site supervisor
at your interview in Montpellier, taking into considering
your class schedule.
8. While in Montpellier, you will always be in contact
with your internship coordinator. He or she will provide
support and act as a contact between yourself and the
site.
9. All interns must sign an on-site agreement upon arrival,
which outlines the responsibilities of the internship
placement.
10. Obligatory internship insurance must be purchased
through the LMDE, the French Student Insurance
Agency, before any activity starts. It covers the student for
liability. The cost is approximately $20 for the year.
28
Sample Internship Placements
Site Name Information Internship Field
A.I.D.E.S. Non-profit organization helping AIDS patients Massaging and comforting patients
American Library American library in Montpellier Leading conversation classes, reception desk
Auberge de Jeunesse Hospitality and tourism Youth Hostel Accommodating tourists, administration,
receptionist
C.N.R.S. Government Research Agency Translating data
Cabinet Vétérinaire Mermoz Veterinary Assisting veterinaries
Centre François Balmes Retirement home Helping the elderly in everyday life
CIMADE Non-profit organization helping immigrant people Administration, law
Conseil Regional Regional Government Research on the Web
Conservatoire des espaces naturels Environmental Agency Computerizing data on wetlands, translation
Education nationale Teaching Teaching English in primary and secondary
schools
French-American Center Promote the American culture and language in Administration, editing, marketing, leading
Montpellier interviews in French, telemarketing
Musée de la Chataigne Museum dedicated to the cultivation of chestnuts in Receptionist, tours
the Cevennes region
Pharmaciens Sans-Frontières Non-profit organization Sorting medication, working with
pharmacists
Radio FM+ Radio programming, broadcasting Announcing activities on air
Secours catholique Non-profit organization Volunteer work, tutoring in French and
English
Secours populaire Non-profit organization Volunteer work, tutoring in French and
English
Université de Montpellier Institute for Foreign Students at the Université Paul Administration, interpretation
Valéry
Festival du cinéma méditerranéen Film Festival in the Fall Reception, ticket sales
29
Resources Useful Websites
www.france.com (General France site)
Books www.sprachcaffe.com/english/study_abroad/countries/
france/french_culture.htm
A Year in Provence, by Peter Mayle. This novel is told
Information on French culture for study abroad students
from the humorous perspective of a British citizen living in
southern France. www.us.franceguide.com
Practical and tourism information about France
A Year in the Merde, by Stephen Clarke
www.ot-montpellier.fr/en/
Beaux Gestes: A Guide to French Body Talk, by Laurence
Wylie. Laurence Wylie is the foremost authority on non-verbal Montpellier’s tourist information site
French communication.
frenchculturenow.com/index.php
Cultural Misunderstandings: The French American News articles relating to French politics, arts, food, fashion,
Experience, by Raymonde Carroll. Serious study of several travel etc
points of contrast between French and American culture and
values. www.zompist.com/frenchcult.html
Perhaps slightly out of date and a bit tongue-in-cheek, but
Culture Shock. France, by Sally Adamson Taylor. This is an an amusing and generally enlightening insight into French
excellent general guide to all aspects France and the French. culture
Fragile Glory, by Richard Bernstein. An extensive and www.languedoc-france.info/
excellent study of France today by the former cultural Information about Languedoc-Roussillon
correspondent in Paris for the New York Times.
French Lessons, by Alice Kaplan. Memoir of a midwestern
American woman’s introduction to the French language and
culture.
French or Foe, by Polly Platt. A lively, practical study of how
to get along with the French; explores the cultural hurdles to
understanding them.
Savoir-Flair: 211 tips for Enjoying France and the French,
by Polly Platt.
Village in the Vaucluse, by Laurence Wylie. A look at daily
life in a small French village.
Films
Au revoir, les enfants
Louis Malle directed this film based on events that occurred
he attended a boarding school during WWII.
Cité des enfants perdus
A scientist in a bizarre, surrealist society kidnaps children to
steal their dreams, hoping that they slow his aging process.
Delicatessen
Post-apocalyptic surrealist black comedy about the landlord of
an apartment building who creates cannibalistic meals for his
odd tenants.
Jean de Florette and Manon des Sources.
These two films give an excellent picture of the scenery and
culture of southern France.
30
Packing List
❐ Comfortable walking shoes
❐ 1 pair dress shoes
❐ 1 pair beach shoes or sandals
Since you will be carrying your own luggage during the trip,
often for long stretches in airports, bus, and train stations, it ❐ 1 swimsuit plus beach towel
is important that you pack sensibly. Take only as much as you
can carry easily by yourself. One way to measure what is easily ❐ Raincoat
carried is to pack everything you would like to take, pick it ❐ Jacket for cool weather
all up, and walk around the block. If you are not comfortable
doing so, you may want to re-evaluate what you’ve packed. ❐ Winter coat
Important: Take clothing that needs a minimal amount ❐ Scarf and hat
of care (this is especially important if you plan to do any
❐ 2 pairs of shorts/ 2 skirts
independent traveling). You may have to go a couple of weeks
without doing any laundry, especially at the beginning of ❐ Sunglasses and sunhat
the program. Laundromats will be the only means of doing
laundry if you plan to live in the dorms or an apartment. ❐ Accessories
Laundromats are expensive and complicated to use, and it
may take some time to make arrangements for your laundry Other necessary items may include:
in Montpellier. Dryers are available in laundromats, but not ❐ Toothpaste and toothbrush
usually in private homes.
❐ Comb/brush
Many travelers to Europe find that the most practical solution
is to wash all underwear by hand and to take only such outer ❐ Dental floss
clothing as can be worn many times without showing soil. ❐ Shaving kit
Jeans are as common in France as here. Students dress very
comfortably, but with style in France. Nice jeans, skirts (for ❐ Deodorant
women), nice but comfortable walking shoes, dark colors, and
❐ Feminine hygiene products
sweaters are all very popular items. Sweaters will be especially
needed since winter temperatures drop to around freezing ❐ Washcloth and towel
and the humid sea air can make the air very cold and damp.
Consequently, we recommend a winter coat as well, as spring ❐ Temporary supply of soap, shampoo (in unbreakable
weather usually doesn’t begin until sometime in March. containers)
Slippers are recommended as many French homes have tile ❐ Aspirin or other pain killer
floors throughout the house and do not use heat as frequently
as most Americans. ❐ Supply of prescription medicine
Keep in mind that you cannot ship materials to the program ❐ Extra pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses
in advance. Any items you wish to mail should be sent by
❐ Sewing kit
friends or family members after your arrival.
❐ Safety pins
Suggested Clothing to Pack
❐ Umbrella
(These are only suggestions; you should adjust accordingly
to your own personal tastes and style. This list is typical for a ❐ French phrase book
four month stay).
❐ French-English dictionary
❐ Underwear
❐ Verb conjugation book
❐ Socks
❐ Grammar review book for easy reference
❐ 4 shirts
❐ Lightweight sleeping bag or sleep sack (if you plan to
❐ 3 sweaters travel and stay in hostels)
❐ 2 pair jeans or pants ❐ Camera (and all necessary equipment)
❐ 1 nice outfit (more if you are doing an internship) ❐ Travel alarm clock
❐ 1 pair pajamas Most of the above personal items can be found in France;
however, you may want to bring enough of your favorite
31
brands to last you during your stay. Students also note that
products in France tend to be more expensive than in the U.S.
Don’t forget to also bring along the following:
❐ Handouts from the online orientations
❐ This Montpellier Program Guide
❐ Photocopy of your passport and visa (scan your passport
and email a copy to yourself )
❐ Copy of your insurance policy number and medical
information concerning allergies, medications, blood
type, immunization history, eyeglasses, or other
prescriptions.
❐ Important phone numbers and email addresses of advisers
at your home university
❐ A copy of your current transcript
❐ A copy of birth certificate (may be requested by the
University dormitories)
❐ 4 additional passport photos (needed for dormitory
housing and other uses as part of orientation)
❐ CISI card and brochure
Pre-departure Checklists
Visit the Accepted Students page to review the Confirmation
Checklist, Pre-departure Checklist and the Financial Aid
Checklist: www.umabroad.umn.edu/programs/Europe/
montpellier/accept.shtml. You are responsible for the
reviewing and completing all items on these checklists. Also
be sure to regularly check your U of M email account for
updates from the Learning Abroad Center staff. Important
information will be communicated to you via email prior to
your departure.
32
Sample Housing Contract
Real Estate Transactions
France and Overseas
Apartment Agreement
The undersigned ______________________________ after having visited today with a designated representative of the landlord, the property found at
contracts to occupy this property from _________________ to ________________. The agreement will be in effect for 6 months/ 1 year and will be signed within 48
hours from today’s date. The monthly rent of ___________ Euro will be paid in advance, that is on the first day of each month by the University of Minnesota Program in
Montpellier. The security deposit will be equivalent to one month’s rent: __________ Euro. The deposit will remain secured for the duration of the agreement in a
compte sequestre at the Credit Lyonnais in Montpellier. This will serve as payment for any repairs which need to be made when the tenant leaves the apartment or as
payment for any outstanding bills (electricity, water, gas, telephone). This security deposit will be refunded with the oversight of the landlord within thirty to sixty days after
the tenant’s departure. The tenant agrees to supply all information requested in the file given to him/her today and to return the apartment in a perfect state of cleanliness
and in working order when s/he leaves.
Done ___ the _____________________, 20 .
Signatures:
Proposed tenant
Representative of the landlord
Representative of the University of Minnesota Program on site
Signature indicates “read and approved.”
General Conditions
1) State of the Property
The state of the contracted property will be established at the time of delivery of the keys to the tenant and is attached to the agreement. At the end of the agreement, from
the time of the restitution of the keys by the student, the state of the contracted property will be again laid out between the parties during a meeting with the landlord and/or
with the University of Minnesota representative 8 days prior, during business hours.
2) Obligations of the Student
a) The rent will be paid by the Director of the University of Minnesota Program; Mme Defrecheux-Chaton, according to the terms of agreement. The student is
held to the following principal obligations:
b) Make use of the property and equipment peacefully according to the use arranged at the signing of the agreement.
c) Respond to defacement and loss which occur during the use of the property where the tenant has exclusive rights/obligations unless the damage results from
outside force, from the fault of the landlord or from the actions of a third party not invited onto the property.
d) Immediately inform the landlord of any and all disasters or damage occurring in the specified apartment, even if the damage is not apparent.
e) Do not rearrange the apartment or equipment without the written consent of the landlord. The landlord could, if the student ignored this obligation, demand the
rearrangement of the apartment to its previous state. The landlord will have at all times the right to demand that the student restore the apartment to its original state if
rearrangement impairs the proper function of the equipment or impairs safety.
f) Do not install or use any new heating system without verifying the cost. Under the students’ liability is the use of the fireplaces in compliance with the current
safety rules.
g) Respect the rules of the building, posted in common areas of the common buildings. Follow all rules and instructions that have been formulated by the landlord
from the decisions of the general assembly of the co-landlords or the interior rules of the building.
h) Do not transfer the lease or sublease the apartment except with the written consent of the landlord and with the understanding of the rent. In the case of
discontinuation of the agreement, the original tenant cannot make any claims against the landlord.
i) In the case of furnished leases, respond to the loss or damage of the furnishings put into use by the landlord and of which inventory is presently joint.
j) Do not move without fulfilling your obligations (payment of rent, etc.) and securing the release of various bills (water, electricity, gas, phone, etc.).
k) Return to the landlord, upon your departure, all the keys to the rented property and leave your forwarding address.
Signature of the Student
Signature indicates “read and approved.”
30
33
International Program of the University of Minnesota
Director: Mme F. Defrécheux-Chaton
University of Montpellier
Tel:
Fax:
Lodging Contract for Foreign Students
General indications of orientation
for the families hosting students from Minneapolis:
Our students are in France for a relatively short amount of time to perfect their French and to initiate themselves to French life and
culture. They are participating in a program of rigorous linguistic and cultural studies; however, it is through the family stays that
they will make the most important progress and that they will achieve the essential entrance into French life.
In general, we ask you to help the students adapt to life in Montpellier, use transportation systems and find the sources of
information they need. Above all, we would like for them to have the opportunity to integrate as much as possible into your regular
family life.
In particular, you are obligated to:
1) Leave a space in your refrigerator for the student to use.
2) Use only French with them, as this is the major goal of their stay.
3) Thoroughly explain the “rules” or habits of your household.
4) Ensure, for each student, a single room with a desk.
5) Furnish a nourishing breakfast (without departing too much from your normal customs).
6) Furnish, in the evening, a substantial meal containing protein. For our students, this meal will be the principle meal of the
day, given that they may not have the time, the habit, or the means to eat a nourishing meal at noon.
7) Offer the student lunch on Saturday and Sunday if the student is at the house for the weekend.
8) Help with the student’s laundry, by offering to do their laundry with yours or by allowing the student to use your washing
machine (and explaining how it works).
9) Contact the program’s housing coordinator with questions you may have.
31
34
Comments from Past
• Courses varied. Some professors were very student-sup-
portive and others weren’t.
Participants • You only get out of it what you put into it.
• My grammar course was great for learning about the
French culture; Litterature Fantastique was good for
stimulating our brains academically; phonetics was useful
What kinds of cultural adjustments did you
for integrating socially, and it was funny.
make?
• I had to learn to wait. Everything—the supermarket Comment on your housing arrangements.
lines, pedestrians, posting of grades, etc.—takes longer in • (Homestay) I’ve never had better food in my life—be
France. prepared for a 2 1/2 hour meal every night.
• Everything closes from noon to 2 p.m. and for the day at • (Homestay)My host family was extremely generous and
7 p.m. However, this is subject to change at any time. No included me on trips and excursions—an effort above
offices are dependable and they might close down for the and beyond expectations.
rest of the day, especially banks.
• (Homestay) Nice family. Always new and interesting
• Kisses. Kisses for gifts, saying hello and goodbye. people visiting or living with them. They were proud of
• Bathing less often. their culture—the typical French.
• Wearing the same clothes over and over again. • (Homestay) A bit of a commute daily; however, my host
• Eating later/longer. The meals are big, important, fancy. family was well worth the time I spent traveling daily. I
found that meeting new people and living with a host
• Relationships (friendly or romantic) work differently. family has changed my narrowmindedness.
How would you suggest meeting French people? • (Apartment) It was a beautiful apartment and everything
about it was marvelous. The apartment option was great
• In classes. Talk to people in your classes. They seldom
because our friends from the homestays hang out at our
start a conversation, but once you make the first move,
apartment.
you’ll find them eager to be friends.
• (Apartment) Gorgeous apartment! I could live there the
• Neighbors.
rest of my life!
• Student and town activities open to all (sports, organiza-
• (Dormitory) Good for an independent person. Not
tions, etc.).
much social life or contact with others on your floor.
• Go out a lot.
• (Dormitory) For the summer program the dormitory is
• Take smaller classes with French people (i.e. translation). great. Lots of students, different cultural activities, having
• Contact with family. your own room for studying is perfect.
• Groups/Clubs on campus (i.e. ecology)
What advice do you have on packing?
• Don’t make friends just because they’re French—make
• Bring simple clothes, and a lot of black clothes, bring
sure you get along first. The French American Center is
more accessories (earrings, bracelets, necklaces). Bring
helpful.
your laptop.
• My internship provided an outlet in which I could
• Pack light, you will buy stuff while you are there and will
interact with a group of students my age with common
want to bring it home and besides, you will be sick of
interests.
your clothing at the end of it anyway.
What did you think of the academic aspect of • It is the south of France but not the tropics. Bring some
the program? clothes for colder weather.
• When I started the integrated classes, I felt overwhelmed • Do not buy a bunch of stuff when you arrive because you
at the information that was thrown at me, but it slowly will have a whole semester to purchase items and you
spread out over the course and began to make sense. Ad- don’t want to blow a bunch of Euros when you first ar-
vice to others: Don’t get overwhelmed. Hang in there. rive, you will regret some of the purchases.
• Excellent grammar/writing/literature courses. What would you tell other students about
• The French system is different. It can be extremely frus- gender issues in France?
trating. There is not always feedback on courses. If there
• I would tell the girls to walk in pairs or groups
are assignments, there are not usually remarks. Don’t
expect to get final exams back. • French men will cat call everyone but if you ignore it and
don’t respond in English it is fine
35
• Girls should avoid direct eye contact with men, even • Be prepared to do a lot of out of classroom work because
though it sounds extreme. Be very careful when dealing we were tested on things that we may not have necessarily
with strangers, especially if you are alone. went over in class or didn’t go over extensively.
• I was on the receiving end of a lot of very aggressive
behavior coming from young Muslim men. I look like What was the most difficult part of studying in
I could be of North African descent, I was often with a Montpellier?
friend who is Kuwaiti and we were usually the only two • The most difficult points in my experience were the mo-
Muslim-looking girls not wearing a veil, which, I think is ments in which I was misunderstood by my host family,
perhaps why the young men gave us such a hard time. I and had to figure out what the misunderstanding was.
would tell future students about this behavior, especially • Just the initial arrival and living with a family was a little
if they look Moroccan or Algerian, because dealing with scary, but after a couple weeks, it was fine.
men following me, yelling at me, calling me names, con-
stantly, was not a pleasant experience. • Getting used to French education system.
• Getting adjusted to taking the bus/tram all the time
What advice do you have for future students? • Adjustment to host culture.
• Go out and make friends with the program’s social assis- • Dating--never worked out
tants and meet other French people through them.
• Leaving the country and all my friends in the host coun-
• Much of your experience is based on what you make of try, that was the hardest thing to do
it, make sure to do a volunteer or internship or find more
ways of connecting with others or it will not happen • Language- you really have to throw yourself out there. I
was lucky in that I lived with French people and so I was
• Talk to people and get integrated. You have to be making forced to speak it but I was so nervous and I still didn’t
the calls to be friends with the French people whereas it’s speak that much French with the onsite staff.
really easy to just hang out with Americans all the time
because you’re all in the same boat. Don’t be shy in your • Budgeting
integrated classes. • The first part where I experienced culture shock and I
• Make sure you conserve your money early on because you missed everyone at home
may not have enough when your two week vacation rolls • Commuting from home stay to campus and to town,
around. especially when there were strikes without warning
• Make sure to take advantage of all the opportunities you • Adjusting to my host family, but all turned out well
are given when you are abroad, you don’t want to miss • Making friends. It’s a much more closed culture for
out on anything. friendships than I expected.
• You will spend more money than you thought, but don’t
hold back. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Ex-
plore Montpellier, I regret that I did not spend more time
exploring the city.
• Honestly, I found it frustrating that many students stuck
with their same friends from back home and did the same
things like going out drinking. That’s fine, except that it
seemed they were too busy continuing to live their own
culture than trying to experience a new one.
• Really really really think over your living decision. Apart-
ment or homestay is a big decision and you must decide
whether or not you’re the type of person who could not
only live, but excel and greatly enjoy a homestay. If you
love going out at night, perhaps apartment is better for
you. Be smart about it.
• Make French friends. I hung out too much with Ameri-
cans in the program. I don’t necessarily regret that be-
cause I made some really neat new friends, but don’t be
afraid to put yourself out there and meet others. Travel.
In France too, not just other countries. Go to the film
festival in Cannes in May.
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