Bordeaux, France

There are so many misconceptions and clichés regarding the study abroad experience that it was difficult to know what to expect. For my study abroad experience, a couple months before the application deadlines, I had my choices narrowed down to three different locations: France, China, or Prague. China had to be ruled out due to logistical problems; however, deciding between the remaining two was extremely difficult for me - in the end I applied to both so that I could delay my decision a couple months. Ultimately I chose Bordeaux, France. At the beginning of orientation, the first day we were together, we signed a language pledge – a pledge that everyone traveling on a Middlebury Study Abroad Program is expected to sign and uphold. In signing this, we promise to speak the language that we came here to study, using as little English as possible. This pledge includes interactions in the city, during our courses at the university (all of which are in French), with our host families, and of course with the other people on the program. Although annoying and frustrating at times, especially at the beginning, I believe that this pledge is what has helped me the most in improving my French and making me feel comfortable here. The language barriers are still there and we still Anglicize phrases; however, being forced to speak the language has helped everyone in the group improve their ability to express their thoughts and feelings in French. It has helped us feel more comfortable speaking and interacting with people here and adapting to the environment, essential steps in truly experiencing the culture and feeling like part of the society. The people who I interact with are always patient and genuinely happy that I am trying to speak their language. Their friendliness and openness is always a rewarding experience.

Mary, 20, Bordeaux