Université Panthéon-Sorbonne: Paris I

At the beginning the Parisians were talking back to me in English because I was insecure and had quite a strong accent. I pretended to not understand English. Sure that was quite an extra obstacle at the beginning, but the easier I git used to communicating in French. At university teachers usually expect of you to already understand them brilliantly, I got called to the board in an Microeconomics class in the 4th week and didn't understand any of what the teacher was asking me about. I told him that I didn't understand but he thought that I was just pretending in order to be prevented from a "fail". I failed virtually all of my written class tests in the first bit of the first term. The problem was that my vocab was still too restricted, and it took me hours to read one page. I think I never worked so hard during the first term of university in my whole life. Although my marks were very bad in the first semester my French improved lots, and in the second semester I found it a lot easier to follow lectures and classes.

My favourite place: The Moose - 16, rue des Quatre Vents(Canadian bar - North American atmosphere, great English-speaking staff, home for many expats and foreigners. They stay open late for Super Bowl, Stanley Cup, etc.. All the fun stuff that you'll never get on cable tv.) The Violon Dingue - Nightpub, open until 5am. The lower floor will make you feel like you're drinking in the catacombs. Very French, very "student." The entire Latin Quarter is an incredible experience. Lots of partying, used book stores, student cafés with tables in the sun, cobblestone streets, etc. A very student-dominated area with lots of personality. Paris is an exicting social hub and you are guaranteed a wonderful time no matter what your tastes. Swanky bars serving massive, decorate cocktails and playing funky tunes are everywhere, Salsa bars, jazz clubs, and outdoor festivals are in abundance and are very festive. Theatrical offerings are constant, classical concerts are played every single night all over town, and picnics in the gorgeous expanses of green parks are a heavenly experience. Don't wait until the last week of your stay to profit from the museums - you get special prices as a student, and when you're walking in the park of the Rodin museum, it will help motivate you during your studies as you remember why you decided to study in such a phenomenal city.