I chose to go to Rennes through CIEE because I was able to get financial help to explore this city that I have wanted to see for years. I started exploring French country when I was young, and I always knew Paris was too rushed and crowded for me. I chose Rennes because it was richer in history then other locations I was looking at. The crêpe and galette originated in Bretange, as well as some of the best salted caramel.
The University of Rennes provided nothing for us. As requirements change for each program, each student is required to bring a laptop, phone, headphones, etc. Each student is also expected to bring notebooks, paper, pens, and pencils. Every student is required to bring the required materials to class everyday, as the teachers will not have anything to give you.
In the regular level of the program (not the honors) there will only be 3 hours of class, there will also be a lot of homework. Between activities, exploring, class, homework, and talking to your host family, you will rarely have down time. Use the free time to explore, but also remember to rest and not overwork yourself. Burning out is common if you push yourself. And you will not want to miss anything
Weekdays look like breakfast with your hosts, class from 9:30-12:30 lunch for an hour or 2 depending on the cultural activities. The activities change daily, from sports to art, to just being in the park. Never a dull moment. After the cultural activities, you have until 8 to explore, then you go home to join your host for dinner. Weekends can hold day trips, overnight events, and rest days. Trips change every session, all but the mont st michel. On this trip, you will travel and walk all day, food will be a picnic from your hosts, and you will be back before dinner, wear shorts and sneakers, but bring a place to carry your shoes!
My biggest fear was that I wouldn't know the language enough, as a student studying the language, I belived that would be a big barrier. However, the host families all know enough English to communicate with you. You are also placed with hosts based on the language level you test into. My family spoke English and French fluently, I would speak what I could in French and the rest in English, they would then tell me how to translate it into French. And most employees speak English, if your stuck while at a resturaunt or store just ask "Anglais sil tu plait?"
Don't Panic! You will meet your group using the online canvas page they will put you in, exchange numbers, social media, and make a group chat! You will find friends before you even start packing. From my own experience I know it can be scary, but introduce yourself, reach out, and say hi. Start that group, ask all your questions, be the brave one in a crowd of people just as scared as you. You got this!