2 answers
Shalom
Student
Palmer, Alaska
3
Questions
Asked
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What were the biggest problems with French emersion programs? What should someone who has never lived away from family know?
I'm a highschool senior looking to learn French starting in the fall of 2026 or 2027. I'm an introvert which is the biggest reason I'm not just moving to France- I wouldn't talk!
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2 answers
viorel costea
Strategy and Planning
1
Answer
Grenoble, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Updated
viorel’s Answer
Hello Shalom
I understand your reticence, it's not an easy step, and it might seem like a big jump.
But try to think that there are many more people, young students, that are all in the same situation like you. meeting, talking and getting surrounded by these people will feel like belonging to a new family all-over-again. and with time, they do become your family.
In my experience, I left home when i was 18 for my college degree, and make life-long friends that i still see/talk-to today, even if we have all moved-on with our lives in different directions. Then i moved to France, (i am a native Romanian) with an internship, and found a new family - interns, same as me, that actually took me in and made my integration so much smoother.
if there is one piece of advice i'd give you - is to dare, don't be afraid, and try. summer programs are indeed a great way to experience a new country/language/culture. and don't forget, you'll never be alone in these experiences!
enjoy and grow
I understand your reticence, it's not an easy step, and it might seem like a big jump.
But try to think that there are many more people, young students, that are all in the same situation like you. meeting, talking and getting surrounded by these people will feel like belonging to a new family all-over-again. and with time, they do become your family.
In my experience, I left home when i was 18 for my college degree, and make life-long friends that i still see/talk-to today, even if we have all moved-on with our lives in different directions. Then i moved to France, (i am a native Romanian) with an internship, and found a new family - interns, same as me, that actually took me in and made my integration so much smoother.
if there is one piece of advice i'd give you - is to dare, don't be afraid, and try. summer programs are indeed a great way to experience a new country/language/culture. and don't forget, you'll never be alone in these experiences!
enjoy and grow
Cung Nguyen
59
Answers
Updated
Cung’s Answer
Hello bonjour Shalom. It's wonderful that you have the chance to travel and study abroad. I wish I had such an opportunity when I was in college. Living and studying in France is the perfect way to improve your French skills by speaking and listening every day. Keep in mind that different regions might have their own dialects, but that's a unique part of the experience. If the cost is a concern, consider just attending a summer program instead of the whole year. Good luck and have a fantastic journey! Bon chance et bon voyage.
I might have to consider the summer option, thanks for the help!
Shalom