I studied abroad for a semester in Spring 2011 and for 3 weeks in Summer 2013 at IAU College, and I could not have had a better experience. Aix-en-Provence is a fairytale-esque city in the South of France with beautiful architecture, art, atmosphere and culture. My time with IAU has been fantastic, which is why I chose to come back. While I was studying abroad for a semester, I took four courses which ranged from French language to World War II history to Provencal culture to a painting and drawing class. The professors that I've had during both of my experiences have been some of the best professors that I had the pleasure of working with during my four undergraduate years. I also liked the format of my classes; every class I've taken at IAU has incorporated field trips to local places which help to emphasize class material. I think that if you're studying abroad, then it's best to use that time to its full advantage, and experiential learning such as this is a great way to do that! For example, in my France During the Occupation course, we traveled to a transit camp right outside of Marseille where we were able to see the exact buildings that we had discussed in class. Additionally, the professor was able to bring in a lecturer who had been involved with the French resistance, and we were able to hear his personal story directly from the source. Hearing this lecture was a once in a lifetime experience which I wouldn't have been able to get anywhere else. My French professor would take us to the local market and restaurants where we would have to speak with local Aixois to order food and learn about different items. I found this type of language learning much more effective than sitting in a classroom doing grammar exercises, because I was able to actually practice the language with native speakers and build my speaking confidence. My host experience was also really great, I chose to live with the same host mom when I came back to Aix for a second time. Although my walk to school was a little far (about 30 minutes each way on foot), I lived in a suburban neighborhood which was extremely safe and comfortable. My host mom was very friendly and would help me with my French homework as I was taking lower level language classes. Although its not at all required of the host families, she took me to a beach for the day when I came to study over the summer and treated me like part of her family which was truly lovely. My experiences with IAU College have been absolutely life changing, and I would recommend studying with IAU to anyone who is looking for a culturally immersive experience in a small city with rich history.
What would you improve about this program?
I wish that there had been more opportunities to interact with other French students. Although it is possible to meet them in the city on your own, because of the language and culture barriers, making those introductions can be tough so it would be nice if IAU sponsored events to help these students come together.
