Université Montesquieu - Bordeaux IV

Anything I needed to know I learnt when I had to.

At least back then the level of political science courses was not as advaced as in which I was used to.

I feel the french higher education system could do with a huge overhaul. The student is left alone, be they native or international, to struggle their way through the relevant courses. It is very rare to be given a module outline, let alone a printed reading list. The university library has a very limited stock and therefore, buying a number of books is often the only solution. The "travaux diriges" (equivalent to our seminars/tutorials etc) are held once a week for each module however it is more akin to being in primary school than university. There is little or no teacher/student interaction. The teacher stands in front of you and speaks non stop, only pausing to pick on individual students for questioning on any given subject. Students are expected to write mini essays for each t.d. Marks are then given for attendance, answers given in class and work submitted. Students have no access to their teachers, neither by phone/email nor are there are any office hours as such. Academic life in France is not something to be relished. I found it a huge challenge and I must admit, most of the difficulties arose from the archaic teaching traditions of the university and not the module contents.

France is generally much more expensive than Poland but it's a helping, social country and students are supported. I paid only 70 euro in place of 120 for housing f.e.

Most part of the rooms in campus are not cleaned before your arrival...the shock may be strong. A little cleaning and you're ready to go... :)

If you study law this is the place to be in, to learn and to improve your knowledges; if you do not, you'd better prepare youself.