Study or Earn Your Degree in Aix-en-Provence, France

Every aspect of my experience at IAU contributed to making it the best experience of my life! I immediately felt extremely comforted and welcome by all students and staff upon my arrival. Throughout the semester, I received a rigorous but rewarding education regarding subjects such as international relations, political science, and French. Each of my courses increased my knowledge in various fields, but my experience outside of the classroom also taught me many valuable pieces of information. Living in a homestay provided me with knowledge of the French household lifestyle, improved knowledge of the French language, and relationships I will have forever. When not at the dinner table with my kindhearted host mother, I would be out on the town with my friends. These are companions that I can now call not only friends, but best friends. Experiencing Aix-en-Provence and other countries in Europe together were some of the greatest opportunities I have ever received. In whole, my time at IAU in Aix-en-Provence was something I will cherish forever. I loved the program so much that I am planning on returning to receive my Master's degree!

My name is Polly and I decided to study abroad in Aix-en-Provence, France for my sophomore year spring semester. This decision didn’t feel real until I actually arrived into Aix after a long day of traveling internationally by myself. (One fear I already got to conquer!) My host mom came to pick me up by the gare station and gave me a warm welcome to this new, always sunny, small city I would soon call my home away from home. I also had made the decision to do the early start program which even further enriched my first week in Aix. The classes I took also immensely added to my time in Aix because I got to learn about the history in and around the area, make art on the country side, participate in wine and cheese tastings, take various excursions to other places in France including Paris, learn and speak more French than I ever would've in one semester at my home university, and discuss literature and films among my classmates. I strongly encourage everyone who studies abroad to take that leap out outside of their comfort zone, whether that be taking the first step and getting on that plane ride across the ocean, meeting people from all over the world, or even ordering from a patisserie in français (something that at first definitely gave me anxiety as a beginner/intermediate French speaker). This whole experience away from home was not always perfect and full of ups and downs. This is what enabled me to grown not only in my cultural, French studies, but also as an open-minded person seeking discomfort and new experiences. From climbing to the top of mount sainte-victoire to being in a boat crash on the amalfi coast, my time abroad was certainly an experience I will never, ever forget. And I would absolutely do it again.

Studying in Aix-en-Provence this past Spring Semester was an absolutely amazing experience. Through the homestay program, I learned so much more about the day-to-day French culture, while being able to speak the language daily in a comfortable environment. Living in Aix for four months was the perfect amount of time, as I was able to fully immerse myself in the culture. My friends and I quickly felt like locals, finding our "regular spots" in the town and getting to know the staff and workers. The town of Aix is in a great location, close to beaches, hikes, the Marseille airport and a TGV train station, there is always something to do or somewhere to go. Studying abroad with IAU has been one of the most fulfilling and life-giving experiences I have had so far. The professors and staff always went above and beyond to make sure that we were doing well. The classes were also fairly engaging, with field studies planned throughout the semester. I would recommend this program to anyone interested in studying abroad in France, no matter your French language-level. This program has truly helped me further develop my appreciation for language and culture, and has helped me to foster friendships I hope to keep for a lifetime.