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Academics : International Education Study Abroad

Study Abroad, France

2007-08 Study abroad program

Fall Semester (Tentative schedule and curriculum)

Leader: Gorgui Diaw

Tentative dates:  November 1 to mid-December

Program: The International Studies Program in France consists of approximately six weeks in Ales, France where students are immersed in the French language and culture. The heart of the program is a homestay component in which students live with French families while studying in a French lycée.

Ales, in the region of Provence, is the site of the Northfield Mount Hermon School's program in France. It is a small, lively city with museums and a rich history preserved in archaeological remains from the Gallo-Roman Empire. Provence is an area well known for its art, architecture, cuisine, stunning variety of landscape, and pleasant climate.

Academic Program: Students will attend a full complement of classes at the Lycée Jean-Baptiste Dumas in Ales, where the language of instruction is French. In addition, students have a weekly class with their NMH instructor and maintain daily journals. They also research and prepare a major report and oral presentation on a subject of their own design. 

Homestay: The homestay experience is the central focus of this program as it allows students to experience first-hand daily life in a French family. In addition to sharpening their language skills and developing an understanding of French culture, students learn a great deal about themselves and develop long-lasting relationships with members of their host family.

Requirements/Credits: This program is open to students in their junior and senior year (though not open to Student Leaders) who have taken at least two terms of French. NMH's program in France is designed for strongly motivated students who are ready for an independent term of study.

Students receive three credits for successful completion of this program—one credit in the French language and one in Intercultural Communications. A third credit will most likely be comprised of a half credit in lycée studies and another half credit related to French literature and culture. Part of the final assessment for this course is a public presentation to the NMH community.

Intercultural Communications: Intercultural Communications is a course designed to enhance the study of all study-abroad programs. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the specific cross-cultural issues they encounter while studying abroad or away from campus. The course will also develop student awareness of cultural differences and provide them with appropriate coping skills and strategies while they are traveling away from school. In addition, students will develop an understanding of the basic elements of cross-cultural communication. 

Application: The application period is now closed.

Fee: In addition to the regular cost of tuition, room, and board, students will pay a program fee of $1850 plus airfare and other major transportation costs. Very limited need-based financial aid may be available, yet is not guaranteed.