Program Description

Housed at the Université Stendhal III in Grenoble, this University of Michigan (AESOP) program provides students with a unique opportunity to study and travel in the heart of southeastern France. Historically, Grenoble was the site of early uprisings during the French Revolution in 1788. Grenoble, known as the “capital of the Alps”, hosted the 1968 Winter Olympics. Today, Grenoble is a vibrant and modern university town set amidst breathtaking views of the French Alps. Truly in the heart of Europe, the city is located near Switzerland, Italy, and the French Mediterranean, and is within three hours from Paris by TGV train.

All classes are taken at the Centre Universitaire d’Etudes Francaises (CUEF), which is a part of the Université Stendhal III. This university has one of the oldest language programs for foreign students in France. The CUEF embodies diversity, providing an exciting mix of students from over 70 countries, practicing teachers, and working adults. All language teachers are trained in Français Langue Etrangère, and all classrooms are equipped with TVs, VCRs, and audio equipment.

Academics

The academic component of the program combines instruction by both University of Michigan instructors and CUEF faculty. All CUEF classes are small (8-15 students), and the language class instructors emphasize listening comprehension, grammar, vocabulary building, and speaking. On the first day of classes, students take a placement exam testing all four skills so that they can be placed in the most appropriate level. In addition to CUEF classes, program students take a culture class with the resident director.

A resident director from the University of Michigan and local staff are available throughout the program for academic advising, to answer questions, and provide assistance.

Housing

Students are housed in a homestay for the duration of the program in order to be truly immersed and to speak French on a continuous basis. Students have their own rooms and will have breakfast and dinner in their homes. In addition, the CUEF has a cafeteria where many students choose to eat lunch after classes each day.

Excursions and Activities

Students participate in at least six excursions during the program (four full-day and two-half days). Potential excursion sites include: Marseille, Annecy, Lyon, Avignon, Chamonix (Mont Blanc), Chartreuse and Vercours. Other special lectures and activities for program participants include: guided museum visits, weekly dances and films, July 14th fireworks, workshops on French songs, and much more.

Upon arrival in Grenoble, students attend an orientation session with the resident director.