CIS Abroad - Summer in Aix-en-Provence

My summer abroad experience was everything I had hoped for, plus more! The University I attended, IAU, was incredible. I was able to advance in my French language skills and studio art skills. All of the staff were welcoming, helpful, encouraging, educated and fun. Without them, none of this would have been possible and they really enriched the whole experience.
My host family was incredible as well. I was safe, comfortable and felt as if I was really apart of the French culture by living with them.
The town itself really made me fall in love with France and the French culture. Someone who hasn't traveled a lot and was a little nervous in the beginning, all of that went away by being in Aix. Being able to be apart of everything the town had to offer really made me feel at home.
Then lastly, the skills I learned on this trip will help me in all of my future endeavors. Not only did the trip advance me in my education, it helped me improve in my everyday life. It made me more passionate to travel, appreciate cultures other than my own, improve my communication and problem solving skills and push me out of my comfort zone. I will never forget this experience and will forever be grateful for the things I got to do and the people I got to meet. I am already counting down the days until I get to go back!

Before I left for this 2 month journey I didn’t realize how much of an impact this experience would have on my life. As soon as I landed I was taken away by friendly faces. I met other students along the way and instantly felt connected. When I saw my host mother and future roommate I was nervous, yet excited for the journey ahead. Everything about this program was spectacular, the classes, the professors, everything. I believe my experience was so unique because of the way it shaped me as an individual. This experience taught me more about myself and my love for travel. I excelled in my coursework, developed a healthy routine, and came out of my comfort zone. As an individual with high anxiety, I was able to conquer my fears and have an experience of a lifetime. Every weekend was a new adventure with the friends that I made along the way. We travelled to various cities and met wonderful people. My favorite memory would have to be the programs trip to La Ciotat. Seeing the markets, and the beautiful ocean view took my breath away. The day was filled with laughter and thrills as we jumped off the cliffs into the crystal blue water. Post-program my life had definitely changed. I started to appreciate my hometown more trying to mimic my experiences in Aix. Although nothing compares, I have definitely been bitten by the travel bug. I would do it all again in a heart beat, but now I have my memories, and friendships that will last a lifetime. I’ll leave you with a tip, never say no. Don’t turn down any new opportunities and to all the future participants cherish each day. Try to learn or try something new each day. Be kind to your host family and make the best of this once in a lifetime experience.
Also here is the link to my Vlog tch?=3HfFIIqRaxw&list=PL5ITnwWudcvw9-tzWUQizglj8LdEEE2kB&index=5