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C.V. Starr - Middlebury School in FranceCentre Madeleine
5, rue de Surène - 75008 ParisTel: 011.33.1.43.20.70.57 ; From Within France: 01.43.20.70.57
Fax: 011.33.1.43.22.73.89
http://www.middlebury.edu/sa/france
Office Hours:Monday – Thursday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Director, Graduate Advisor, and Bordeaux/Poitiers Program AdvisorDavid Paoli
Assistant Director and Paris Undergraduate Program AdvisorAmy Tondu
Student Life CoordinatorDanielle Lacarrière
Administrative AssistantPatricia Lemeunier
Paris Program AssistantEnyi Koene
Bordeaux & Poitiers Program AssistantSandra Gaborit
Coordinator for the School in France,
International Programs and Off-Campus Study
Susan [email protected]
French School CoordinatorSheila Schwaneflugel
Please note: Information in this handbook is subject to change.
Copyright 2012 by MiddleburyCollege. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a
retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
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photographic or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Middlebury College.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR
PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION4 Approximate Program Costs4 Expenses4 Student Visas5 Registering with the U.S. Embassy6 Pre-Departure Orientation
TRAVEL TO FRANCE 7 TSA Regulations7 Luggage Restrictions7 Travel/Luggage Insurance7 Medical Insurance8 Important Things to Bring Abroad8 General Packing Suggestions11 Customs11 International Students
ARRIVAL IN FRANCE
12 How to get to Downtown Paris from the Airport13 Getting Settled13 Temporary Lodging
ACADEMIC MATTERS
16 M.A. in French Distribution Requirements
16 Distribution of units17 MA Research Project17 M.A. Specializations18 General Limitations18 Course Options18 Selection of Courses18 Registration18 M.A. Thesis18 French-Style Education21 Tutorials and Academic Support21 Conversion of Grades21 Learning Outside of the Classroom
LIVING IN FRANCE
23 Permit of Stay 23 Medical Care24 Housing in Paris27 Renter’s Insurance 27 Meeting the French28 Eating in France28 Transportation in Paris29 Traveling within France30 Traveling in Europe
ON-SITE MONEY MATTERS
31 Banking in France32 Credit/Debit Cards33 Travelers’ Cheques33 Emergency Cash33 Working in France
COMMUNICATION WITH HOME & FRIENDS
34 Communication and Immersion 34 Mail34 E-Mail35 Telephone 35 Cell phone35 Fax35 Photocopying
LOCAL INFORMATION
36 Paris
2012-13 TENTATIVE CALENDAR
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Bienvenue à l’Ecole en France de Middlebury College !
The School in France staff has prepared this Handbook to assist you as you make preliminary preparations for study in France. You should find answers to many of your basic questions in the material presented here, and so we ask that you review it very carefully and bring it along.
Along with its benefits, life abroad can present challenges. It requires independence, maturity, and a sense of humor that will enable you to accept the inevitable difficulties and frustrations that go along with living in a different culture. Honoring Middlebury’s Language Pledge is essential for you to take full advantage of your experience in France.
You should not expect to find at the School in France the same academic nor social environment you have on U.S. campuses. For instance, be prepared to change some of your study habits, and to adjust to an environment that will seem less structured than the one you are used to.
Your experience in France will test you in new ways and will reward you beyond your expectations, but again it will require concerted effort, determined independence, and extreme flexibility on your part. We stress the importance of “informed participation” throughout the study abroad experience, and, beginning with this Handbook, we will do all that we can to help you with this approach.
As you prepare for your experience abroad, please remember that our offices always welcome your emails, phone calls, and inquiries. Likewise, our staff is always available to talk to your parents and answer any questions they may have regarding your time in France.
Best wishes as you head out on this exciting adventure! We look forward to meeting you in France soon!
Sincerely,
David PaoliAssociate Professor and DirectorSchool in France
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PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION
APPROXIMATE PROGRAM COSTSThe following is an estimate of program costs as of February 2012. Please remember that Middlebury College only bills you for tuition only; the remaining expenses will be out-of-pocket. Amounts that you will pay in the U.S. are given in dollars; expenses you will incur while in France are given in euros. For financial aid purposes an exchange rate of €1 = $1.40 is used. Costs may vary depending on individual lifestyles and situations. Please note that the “personal” figure covers only some basic necessities and does not and is not intended to include students’ discretionary spending (e.g., entertainment and travel).
Fluctuating exchange rates make advanced planning of costs challenging. We advise that you overestimate your costs to accommodate these fluctuations. Please be sure to confirm the exchange rate shortly before your departure so that you budget accordingly.
EXPENSESKeep in mind that the amount of money you spend ultimately depends on the lifestyle you choose. Remember to budget extra for first month’s expenses in France (e.g., first month’s rent, communication, transportation, museum passes, personal items), and if you are planning to travel before or after your program. Several airlines now offer low fares for specific travel periods. Train travel has remained relatively inexpensive. If you are under 26 you can buy the “12-25 youth pass for reduction on train tickets, valid for a year. If you are a big spender in the U.S., bringing more money would be a good idea. Students who plan on regularly sampling the nightlife should budget extra money for taxis. Public transportation usually stops operating at 1:00 a.m.
STUDENT VISASAll students are required to obtain a student visa before they enter France (except those with European Union passports). Additionally, all students are required to register with CampusFrance prior to applying for a student visa for France. Please note: International students who are applying for their visa outside the U.S. may or may not have to register with CampusFrance -- check the CampusFrance website for your home country. After you register online and submit all necessary fees and documentation, CampusFrance will send you an “attestation” that you must take (+ your CampusFrance ID
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Full Year ParisTuition $21,200Room/Board $16,625Books/Supplies $865Personal $5,320Travel from NY $1,100Visa/Residency Permit $255Total $45,365
number and proof of payment) to the French Consulate when you apply for your student visa.
For more information about CampusFrance, please visit: http://www.campusfrance.org/
Visas are affixed into passports and must be obtained at a French Embassy or Consulate. Students should apply for a long stay (over 90 days) student visa. Do not apply for a regular long stay visa; follow the student requirements instead.
All students studying in France for one semester or a full academic year must apply for a Long Stay student visa; you will then be required to apply for a residency permit upon your arrival. Students will receive assistance with the application to validate their long stay student visas from the School in France during orientation. The French Consulate in Boston knows our program and is prepared to handle applications expeditiously provided the dossier is complete. You must apply for your student visa in-person, and you must schedule a visa appointment online. Be sure not to leave this until the last minute. Given past visa application delays, we recommend that you begin the process at least 2 months prior to departure. In any event, be sure to find out well ahead of time what documentation you will be required to provide to the consulate in question. Important: It is impossible to obtain a student visa in France.
In general, you will be required to submit the following in order to obtain the long stay student visa from the French consulate:
(1) 1 legible photocopy of identification pages of passport (2) 1 French-format photos [3,5cm x 4,5cm; no head accessories or
eyeglasses. Scanned photos will not be accepted)(3) Financial guarantee letter signed by a notary public(4) Proof of insurance from HTH Worldwide [letter from HTH +
insurance card](5) Letter of acceptance to a French university from Middlebury(6) Proof of residence/housing in France(7) Some consulates ask for a flight ticket or photocopy (NY)(8) Campus France ID number and proof of payment(9) Residence form for OFII*** Please do not forget to bring with you the questionnaire entitled “Visa de long séjour – Demande d’Attestation OFII” that the consulate gives you when you receive your visa. You will need to submit this questionnaire to French immigration authorities when you arrive in France.
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If it is not convenient for you to obtain your visa through the French Consulate in Boston, you should contact the consulate office located closest to your permanent address to find out what the requirements are and how to proceed.
For a listing of French consulates in the U.S., please visit http://www.ambafrance-us.org/spip.php?article330.
REGISTERING WITH THE U.S. EMBASSYIn addition to securing a visa, all students who are U.S. citizens are required to register themselves with the U.S. Embassy in their host country before departure from the U.S. In the event of international, political, or family emergencies, or in the event that a passport is lost or stolen, the U.S. Embassy will be much better able to assist registered students. All program participants will be registered by the School in France staff soon after arrival in France.Please visit the Department of State’s website for your information: https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/.
Non US nationals should check to see if it is possible to register with their own embassy in France.
PRE-DEPARTURE ORIENTATIONThe director of the School in France and his staff will hold pre-departure orientation meetings during the summer session at the French School in Middlebury, Vermont. If you are not on campus the summer prior to your year in France you will receive the materials distributed in those meetings by mail and should feel free to contact International Programs and Off-Campus Study with questions. ORIENTATION SESSIONS ARE MANDATORY FOR ALL STUDENTS IN VERMONT FOR THE SUMMER.
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TRAVEL TO FRANCE
Students are responsible for their own travel arrangements. We recommend using a student travel agency for flexibility and the best rates:
STA Travel: http://www.statravel.com StudentUniverse: http://www.studentuniverse.com Travel CUTS: http://www.travelcuts.com
Please consult the School in France calendars in the back of this handbook or on the web at http://www.middlebury.edu/ls/grad_programs/french/program_tracks/paris/calendar before planning your travel dates. We recommend that you arrive in Paris a few days before the first meeting in order to become familiar with and adjust to your new surroundings.
It is especially important that you not plan your return to the United States nor travel to another destination before the date of the last final exam. Exam dates cannot be changed to accommodate students’ travel plans. No exceptions will be made, so please don’t ask.
TSA REGULATIONSThe Transportation Security Administration regulates what items may be carried aboard aircrafts and these regulations are subject to change. Therefore, you should consult their website close to your date of departure:
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel
N.B. Possessing certain items while going through security may result in fines of $250 - $1500 or, in the case of firearms, may be considered a criminal offense.
LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONSYou should contact your airline to confirm exact luggage allowances. We strongly suggest you stick to these guidelines, or be prepared to pay excess baggage fees, which can be quite expensive. Check whether your luggage is limited by weight or by piece.
TRAVEL/LUGGAGE INSURANCEWe also suggest that you consider insuring your luggage through a comprehensive travel insurance policy. Some travel insurance is included under the HTH Worldwide policy. Furthermore, it is possible that you may be covered under a policy held by your parents, so investigate this prior to departure. Travel insurance options can be researched at: http://www.insuremytrip.com
MEDICAL INSURANCEStudents studying at the Middlebury School in France are automatically enrolled in a study abroad health insurance plan for the duration of the program through HTH Worldwide. This coverage is mandatory and cannot
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be waived. You will receive an insurance card and proof of insurance letter (required for your visa application) from HTH. Dependent coverage is available and can be purchased directly from HTH Worldwide.
CHECKLIST OF IMPORTANT THINGS TO BRING ABROAD Schools Abroad General Handbook:
http://www.middlebury.edu/media/view/271402/original/graduate_school_abroad_guidelines_12-13.pdf
School in France Handbook Passport and Student Visa [+ 3 copies] Airline ticket/itinerary [+ copies) International Student Identity Card (optional):
http://www.myisic.com/MyISIC/ Calling card for emergencies. It is easy to buy cheap pre-paid calling
cards when you get to Paris. Please inquire. Debit/Credit cards Medications in original containers [we recommend packing a copy of
your prescription(s) with your medication in case you’re asked for them by customs officials]*** Please do not forget to bring with you the questionnaire entitled “Visa de long séjour – Demande d’Attestation OFII” that the consulate gives you when you receive your visa. You will need to submit this questionnaire to French immigration authorities when you arrive in France.
GENERAL PACKING SUGGESTIONSPlan carefully what to bring, keeping in mind that you will have to carry your luggage while traveling. This means, as the saying goes, “TRAVEL LIGHT.” We cannot emphasize this strongly enough! Choose each item carefully and avoid duplication.
As you pack for the flight over, keep in mind that you will be carrying this same luggage by yourself, sometimes over great distances, up and down sets of stairs, or on crowded trains. Avoid using extra large or oversized bags. Take things that are easy to manage and avoid over-packing. One rule of thumb is to pack your bags and walk around the block three times with your bags; then re-pack. Do not pack a lot of books in your luggage. You can buy them in France and send them home after the term ends.
Consider sending excess luggage (e.g., winter clothing) by air freight. If you have clothing sent to you, be sure to indicate on the customs slip that you are a student and that you are sending used clothing (vêtements usagés). Otherwise, you will be charged a stiff customs fee as though you were importing new clothing. Likewise, if you are sending other objects, include a photocopy of the receipt, showing that it is not a new article. We DO NOT
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recommend shipping laptop computers and/or printers. Bring these with you!
After your year abroad in France, you may be able to take advantage of group airfreight rates to send boxes back to the U.S. (see appendix on “Local Information”). La Poste also has low fees for sending books (5kg per box).
Clothing In Paris the weather is humid and damp. Temperatures occasionally get down to 20-25 degrees Fahrenheit. Lodgings will usually maintain a temperature of 65-68 degrees in the winter. Bring a good winter coat and/or warm raincoat, an umbrella, sweaters, good walking shoes, and possibly a sleeping bag which folds out into a quilt, especially if you get cold easily. Try not to bring too many clothes as closet space is limited and dry cleaning and laundries are expensive. You should also bring — or expect to buy — some dressier items.
Bed and Bath Linens Bed linens and towels are generally provided for students staying with host families as well as those renting a studio or an apartment. If upon arrival you notice that sheets and towels were not provided for you, please notify the Student Life Coordinator, who will make the necessary arrangements. You may want to consider bringing a face and body towel with you, which should suffice until you are able to purchase more. Some foyers (the Oasis, Société Philanthropique for example) will ask students to bring their own towels and a set of sheets for their bed (twin extra long). You can always buy these items upon arrival (recommended).
ComputersWe highly recommend that you bring a laptop computer with you. In the past, this has proven to be extremely convenient for students writing their M.A. thesis or dissertation.
You should be aware that computer resources in France are more limited than in the U.S. and the hours during which the computers are available are necessarily limited. A laptop that can function on 220 volts is an excellent solution if you prefer to do your work at night or on weekends. However, you should also be aware of the risk of theft associated with this option.
There are several computers (Macs and PCs), internet hook-ups, and a laser printer for academic use at the Centre Madeleine in Paris. If your laptop has a Wi-Fi card, you will be able to connect to the Internet from the Centre Madeleine. If it doesn’t, you may buy an external Wi-Fi card in France. Please note that there is an 802.11g type wireless network at the Centre Madeleine. If you decide to obtain an external wireless access card, make
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sure that it is compatible with this network. It is also possible to have internet connection using an Ethernet cable at the Center.
If you are bringing a laptop, we strongly advise you carry it on to the plane. This is by far the safest way to transport it. Be sure to have with you the bill showing the value of the computer, and that it was purchased in the U.S. You should benefit from a franchise and not have to pay duty to bring your personal computer into France, but you may have to affirm in writing that you will not sell the computer in France. If the computer was not manufactured in the U.S., be sure to register it with U.S. customs officials before leaving France in order to bring it back without paying duty (see section on “Customs”).
Electrical AppliancesThe electrical current in Europe is 220 volts/50 cycles rather than the 110/60 cycles found in the United States. You should make sure that any appliance you bring is 110/220 compatible (50/60 cycle). Transformers and adapter plugs are available in France, but it is possible to buy them in the U.S. before you leave. U.S. transformers, for example, are lighter and cost less. Occasionally, even though a transformer is used, an appliance may not work properly. Because of this difficulty and because of their weight and bulk, you may want to leave most electrical appliances at home and buy in France those that you find absolutely necessary. Some electrical appliances can be bought in France inexpensively (e.g., hairdryers, speakers).
Most electronic equipment, such as computers and camera battery-chargers, have an automatic 110V/220V current adapter, in which case, only a wall outlet adapter is needed.
Prescriptions If you are taking any medication that is not available in France, you should take a full supply of what you will need with you on the plane together with all the appropriate prescriptions. Mailing medicines across international borders is complex. However, if you happen to need an additional supply of medication while in France, make sure to contact the AFSSAPS (Agence Française de Sécurité Sanitaire des produits de santé) in order to obtain an official certification allowing your parents to send you the medication needed across international borders. For more information: http://www.afssaps.fr/. Please contact the School in France coordinator at Middlebury if you have questions, or the School in France staff.
In order to get an authorization to import medication, you’ll need: a letter explaining why you need medication sent to you medicine name (GENERIC) and dosage needed labeling and any other relevant information expediter’s contact information
When traveling, prescription medicines should be left in the original containers. It is also suggested that you carry the original prescription or a note from your doctor to avoid having to answer questions from the
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authorities. Please also note that in the event that you must refill or replace a prescription in France, you should have the GENERIC NAME of your medication on the prescription, in addition to the American 'brand' name.
If you are under a doctor’s care for a specific condition, you may want to bring a copy of your medical history with you or sign a release form with your doctor in case your medical history needs to be sent to a doctor in France.
ToiletriesIf you are particular about brands, you may want to pack an appropriate supply of the articles you regularly use.
GiftsIf you are planning to live with a host family you may wish to present them with a gift. Select something that has significance to you, and is packable and light. Consider the following gifts:
• Books - with photos (e.g., coffee table book)• CDs of current American music and your favorite songs/artists • Small souvenirs from the U.S.: postcards, buttons, pins, stickers, stamps, small crafts• Regional items that one would associate with your region, state, city
or town (e.g., maple syrup, saltwater taffy)
DON’T FORGET PHOTOS. Your friends will be interested in where you come from: your family, town, friends, and school. Take pictures that help explain parts of your life in the U.S.
CUSTOMSIf you plan to bring any new, non-U.S.-made articles of value, such as cameras, MP3 players, computers, bicycles, or jewelry that are LESS THAN 6 MONTHS OLD, you should register them with U.S. Customs and Border Protection before departure (CBP Form 4457). Alternatively, you can carry your original sales receipts to prove that you purchased them in the U.S. This avoids your having to pay a duty upon your return. Customs regulations vary from country to country; there are usually limitations on liquor, cigarettes, and other goods.
To register your items, download and complete the form available online at http://forms.cbp.gov/pdf/CBP_Form_4457.pdf and present it with your items to a Customs and Border Patrol Officer at an international airport.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS STUDYING ABROADThe U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) require re-entry documents for some foreign nationals. If you are living in the U.S. but are a citizen of another country, check with the USCIS to determine the regulations that apply to you and be sure to obtain all necessary re-entry documents before you leave the United States.
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ARRIVAL IN FRANCE
HOW TO GET TO DOWNTOWN PARIS FROM THE AIRPORTBelow is a list of transportation options for traveling from the two main Parisian airports into the city. Prices and availability are subject to change.
From Roissy-Charles de Gaulle (CDG):RER line B to center-city Paris “Chatelet” station. Cost: €9.10, one-way; is the quickest and probably the easiest way to get to center-city Paris, if you don’t have a lot of luggage to carry.
Roissy-Bus to “Opéra” metro station on rue Scribe: Cost: approx €10, one-way. It can take you between 45 and 60 minutes to get from the airport to the Opera neighborhood. Buses come every 15 minutes between 6am and 11pm.For more information: http://www.ratp.fr/
Autobus Air France express shuttle service from CDG to the city center.Line 2 to Etoile or Porte Maillot: €15 (one-way)Line 4 to Montparnasse or Gare de Lyon: €16.50 (one-way)http://www.aeroportsdeparis.fr/ADP/fr-FR/Passagers/Acces-Plans-Parking/Paris-CDG/Acces/Transports-En-Commun/paris-cdg-car-air-france.htm
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Taxi: €50 to €60 (3 people maximum); €2.50 extra for 4th person + additional charge for luggage, when there’s more than two bags/suitcases.
There are also several shuttle services that can pick you up at the gate closest to your baggage claim and take you to your address in Paris. The shuttles' rates are flat rates regardless of the amount of time it takes the driver to take the passengers to their final destination in Paris. Reservations are required at least one week in advance and there is no extra charge for luggage.
How do I pay for my shuttle?All online bookings are paid in advance by credit card (Visa or MasterCard) on our secure website. You just need to print off the confirmation email and give it to your driver when you arrive in Paris.
Parishuttle €31/person when travelling alone€20/person when travelling with two to four peoplehttp://www.parishuttle.com/
Paris Airport Service€26/person travelling aloneWhen traveling with two or more, the rate is cheaper. Consult website for rates
http://www.parisairportservice.com/
Blue Van€25-26 per person when travelling alone; When traveling with two or more, the rate is cheaper. Consult website for rateshttp://www.paris-blue-airport-shuttle.fr/
Note: These shuttle services are highly recommended by our students who find it stress-relieving to know that someone will be waiting for them at the airport to take them and their luggage to their respective address in Paris.
From Orly (ORL - southeast of Paris):
Orlyval and RER line B: €10.90 approx.
Orlybus (to Denfert Rochereau metro station): €7 for one-way ticket
Autobus Air France express shuttle service from ORL to the city center.Line 1 to Montparnasse and Invalides: €11.50€ (one-way)Line 1* to Montparnasse and Etolie: 11.50€ (one-way)
http://www.aeroportsdeparis.fr/ADP/fr-FR/Passagers/Acces-Plans-Parking/Paris-Orly/Acces/Transports-En-Commun/paris-orly-cars-air-france.htm
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Paris Airport Service€26/person travelling aloneWhen traveling two or more, rate is cheaper. Consult website for rates.http://www.parisairportservice.com/
Taxi: €40 to €50 (3 people maximum); €2.50 extra for 4th person + additional charge for luggage, when there’s more than two bags/suitcases.
Don’t forget to take baggage into account when choosing your mode of transportation. If you have several bags, make sure that you can carry or pull them all.
GETTING SETTLEDIt is recommended that you arrive in Paris several days before the scheduled beginning of the program. It will take you some time to settle into your permanent lodgings and adjust to the time difference and the new surroundings. If you can arrange it, we recommend you travel with a friend or two; the shared experience will make the trip and your arrival more enjoyable. Your different language abilities may complement each other, and you can take turns watching luggage. In any event, let friends know when you will be arriving and where you will be staying, so that you can get together and share a meal or do some exploring. Under no circumstances should you arrive in Paris without having either temporary or permanent housing waiting for you. It will be virtually impossible to find a hotel room without reservations in late August and early September.
TEMPORARY LODGINGUnless you have confirmed that you can move into your permanent housing on the day you arrive in France, we strongly urge you to reserve temporary accommodation PRIOR to departure. To call France from the U.S., dial 011-33-plus the last nine digits of the number. When calling a cell phone number, dial 011-33-6 + the last eight digits of the number. Don’t forget the time difference, which is normally six hours between the East coast of the U.S. and France.
Below is a list of names and addresses of some student residence halls and hotels where School in France students have stayed for short periods in the past. Keep in mind that the rates quoted are subject to change. Unless otherwise indicated, these per-person rates are as of January 2012 and may be subject to slight changes.Regular foyers will also accept students for a few nights before the beginning of the academic year. If you’re arranging to stay temporarily in a foyer, mention that you are with the Middlebury program, and enclose a photocopy of the A Qui de Droit letter.
Foyer International des Etudiantes(co-ed from July through September) 93, boulevard St. Michel 75005http://www.fie.fr/
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Tél: 01.43.54.49.63Métro: LuxembourgMinimum stay: 48H Single room: €37,50 pp; Double room: €27 pp (includes breakfast)
NB: We strongly advise you to reserve well ahead of time; spaces fill up quickly for the summer
Bureau des Voyages de la Jeunesse (B.V.J) (co-ed open all year)http://www.bvjhotel.com/
a) Paris-Louvre20, rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau 75001 ParisTél: 01 53 00 90 90Double room: €35 pp; Dormitory (4, 8, 10 beds): €30 ppReserve 2 or 3 days in advance
b) Paris-Quartier Latin 44, rue des Bernardins 75005 ParisTél: 01 43 29 34 80Reserve 2 or 3 days in advanceSingle room: €49 pp; Double room: €35 pp; Dormitory (4, 8, 10 beds): €30 pp
MIJE : Maison Internationale de la Jeunesse et des Etudiants (3 locations in the heart of Paris)http://www.mije.com/Tél: 01.42.74.23.45a) Fauconnier11, rue du Fauconnier 75004 ParisMétro: Saint-Paul
b) Maubuisson12, rue des Barres75004 ParisMétro: Hôtel de Ville
c) Fourcy6, rue de Fourcy75004 ParisMétro: Saint-Paul
All locations:Single room: €51 pp; Double room: €38 pp; Triple room (3 beds): €33 pp;
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Multiple share: €31pp; Has its own cafeteria, (€10.50 per meal) with membership (€2.50 paid once) Breakfast is included.
Hôtel du Séjour36 rue Grenier St.Lazare75003 Paris Tél: 01 48 87 40 36Métro: Rambuteau or Etienne Marcelhttp://www.hoteldusejour.com/
Hotel Flor Rivoli13 rue des deux Boules75001 Paris Tél: 01 42 33 49 60Métro: Chatelethttp://www.france-hotel-guide.com/h75001florriv.htmSingle room: €75-€80Double and twin room:€95Breakfast:€6 pp
Hotel du Levant18 rue de la Harpe75005 ParisTel. 01 46 34 11 00Métro : St.MichelRooms : single 78€-142€Double 129€-175€
Paris Central Hotel1 bis rue du Maine75014 Paris01 43 20 69 15Single: €94Double: €103-€124Twin: €129-€132Breakfast:€6 pp
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ACADEMIC MATTERS
M.A IN FRENCH DISTRIBUTION REQUIREMENTS (PARIS)
For the traditional M.A. completed at the Middlebury College School in France in Paris, coursework must include:
3 Units in Language and Linguistics, including: FR 6525 (Intro to Literary Analysis, in Vermont) or an
equivalent,AND one of the following two options, based on the results of the placement test at the beginning of the summer program:
FR 6509 (Applied Stylistics I, in Vermont) and FR 6611 (Advanced Composition, in Paris) OR FR 6510 (Applied Stylistics II, in Vermont)
3 units in Literature 3 units in Civilization, Culture, and Society Independent research project (2 units) in Paris 1 elective unit
DISTRIBUTION OF UNITS
After successful completion of the summer of candidacy on the Vermont campus (three units of credit), most students complete the remaining nine units of credit in Paris, including 7 course units over the course of 2 semesters, and a 2-unit independent research project or “mémoire” (over the course of the academic year) under the supervision of a French professor. A typical student’s coursework includes:
Fall semester: 4 course units + research- 3 course units at the Middlebury Center- 1 course unit at the University- research project
Spring semester: 3 course units + research- 2 course units at the Middlebury Center- 1 course unit at the University- research project
Students must enroll in a minimum of 3 course units in the fall semester, and 2 course units in the spring semester, including one course at the Middlebury Center and one course at the University each semester.
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If a student fails a course during fall semester, s/he may take an additional course in the spring semester only within the limit of 4 course units (excl. research units).
M.A. RESEARCH PROJECT
Students write their M.A. research project in French on a topic covered in one of the courses taken at the Middlebury Center during fall semester in Paris. Students choose their research topic under the guidance of a Middlebury faculty member with whom they then work regularly and closely throughout the year. The program ends after research project defenses, around the middle of June. A guide to the M.A. research project will be distributed to all program participants during the summer at Middlebury and research methods workshops will be offered during fall semester.
M.A. SPECIALIZATIONS (PARIS OPTIONS)
As an alternative to the traditional M.A. program, students may decide to prepare an M.A. with a specialized focus in Literature, in Civilization, Culture, and Society, or in Linguistics and/or Pedagogy. In addition to the customary three units of required language courses (see above), coursework must include:
Specialization in Literature5 units in Literature2 units in Civilization, Culture, and Society
Specialization in Civilization, Culture, and Society
5 units in Civilization, Culture, and Society2 units in Literature
Specialization in Linguistics and/or Pedagogy
5 units in Linguistics and/or Pedagogy1 unit in Literature1 unit in Civilization, Culture and Society
Students must write their independent research project (2 units) in their area of specialization. These research units count toward the total distribution of credits for the specialization.
Students who specialize in literature in Paris are strongly encouraged to take coursework covering at least five of the seven periods of French (the Middle Ages; the 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries) and Francophone literatures, unless the student has taken some advanced undergraduate courses covering a given century/area. They usually enroll at the Université Sorbonne Nouvelle – Paris 3. They must take their methodology course in literature in the preceding
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summer in Vermont (FR 6525, Intro to Literary Analysis, or an equivalent).
Students who specialize in Civilization, Culture, and Society usually focus on French and Francophone history, or on French (and European) political studies. These students typically enroll at Université Panthéon Sorbonne – Paris 1. They must take their methodology course in literature in the preceding summer in Vermont (FR 6525, Intro to Literary Analysis, or an equivalent).
Students who specialize in pedagogy and/or linguistics enroll in Master’s level courses in “Didactique du Français et des langues” at the Université Sorbonne Nouvelle – Paris 3. They must have taken at least one course in the area either before the summer or during the summer.
GENERAL LIMITATIONSAll credits toward a Middlebury M.A. (earned at Middlebury or elsewhere) expire ten years after the study was completed (i.e., courses taken during the summer of 2012 are no longer valid toward a degree as of August 2022.)
COURSE OPTIONS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF PARISStudents take at least one course per semester at the Université Sorbonne Nouvelle - Paris 3 (in French literature, comparative literature, French theater, French cinema, linguistics/pedagogy, or translation) or at the Université Paris 1 - Panthéon Sorbonne (in French history, French art history, or French philosophy). Taking courses at a single institution (in addition to the Centre Madeleine) has proven to provide greater opportunities for social contact and academic support.
Graduate students normally take third-year courses (at the Licence level) within the French university system. However, if you already have a strong background in the subject, fourth-year courses (at the Masters level) may be more appropriate. SELECTION OF COURSESThe Director of the School in France must approve your workload and choice of courses each semester. Students will first discuss their academic and professional objectives with the director during the summer in Middlebury, VT. They will make a first selection of courses on the basis of 2011-12 course lists:
http://www.middlebury.edu/ls/grad_programs/french/program_tracks/paris/courses
Students will meet with the Director again in Paris in September to make the final course selection for fall semester, once all the course information for 2012-2013 will be made available by French universities.
Spring semester course selection usually takes place in December.
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REGISTRATIONPlease know that registering for courses at a French university is not as easy as registering in the U.S., but the Middlebury staff in Paris facilitates university and course registration.
There are two distinct registration procedures. The inscriptions administratives (“matriculation”) take place early in September. The staff of the School in France will take care of this administrative procedure for you. The inscriptions pédagogiques (course registration) come at a later point; they involve registering for specific courses in the various academic departments and are in most instances done individually by the student. The procedure will be further explained to you during the summer and during in-country orientation in Paris in September.
Note that you will be able to drop a course until the end of the second week of a given class, but you won’t be able to add a course after the end of the second week.
FRENCH-STYLE EDUCATION Studying in an academic culture different from your own allows you to develop new skills and new work methods. The European system teaches students to become more independent and self-directed, and greatly improves their intellectual curiosity and research skills.
In France, unlike in most countries, “universities” make up only one of the components of the higher education system. Other components include the highly competitive “Grandes Ecoles” (« Sciences Po », engineering and business schools), the selective and valued “Sections de Techniciens Supérieurs” (STS) and “Instituts Universitaires de Technologie” (IUT). Except for a few catholic (private) institutions, French universities are “public,” and thus accessible to all students who hold the “baccalauréat” or its equivalent.
Seventy percent of French students who pursue their studies after the “baccalauréat” end up at one of the public universities. The number of students going to universities increased significantly during the second half of the 20th century. Approximately 50% of the university students are in first or second-year courses. While the university is widely accessible, 39% of the students withdraw before the end of their second year. More than a third of the student population studies humanities.
Course FormatMost French students specialize in a single field of knowledge very early on. In fact, when they apply to college they have to choose a particular track (“parcours”). As a result, from the first year on, from one course to the next, in a progressive and logical sequence, they acquire a very thorough knowledge of their discipline and its methods. They take more than 80% of their courses in their major discipline.
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The European university started during the Middle Ages. It brought together masters and pupils (“universitas magistrorum atque scholarium”) under the authority of the Church. Masters were learned men working toward the construction of knowledge. It was a great privilege for pupils to be able to listen to “the” (or an) unquestionable “expert” who shared his knowledge with those striving to become masters themselves. To this day, students strive to “follow” the professor who leads them, but who doesn't necessarily tell them exactly where they are going. This may explain why syllabi and assignment schedules are not as necessary within such a tradition. Lectures still constitute an essential part of teaching in France.
A course that consists of a series of lectures (exclusively by the professor) held in large amphitheaters is known as cours magistral, or CM and it often meets only once a week, for 1½ to 3 hours at a time. In some instances, however, courses take the form of travaux dirigés (TD). These TDs usually consist of a combination of lecture and students’ presentations. Professors usually provide extensive bibliographies and expect students to work “judiciously”. While students are not expected to read all the books that are listed in a bibliography, at the end of the course, on the final exam, they will be expected to address a question by presenting a broad and conceptual “réflexion” on the lectures and their independent readings.
“Magistral” lectures may sometimes seem outdated and ineffective in contrast to more interactive teaching formats that are widely preferred in the U.S., but they can still be most useful to students as they consist of valuable overviews of a topic or a range of theories. Lectures are meant to help students approach an immense body of literature from a more informed viewpoint. After taking detailed notes in class, it is up to the student to pursue their own further investigation of the subject matter. If their notes are good, they can use them as a starting point for an effective and informed study of the material. It goes without saying that good note-taking during a lecture is absolutely crucial in the French system.
Academic ExpectationsProfessors may not distribute any handouts, syllabi, or assignment schedules in the course. You, however, should not think that your professors don’t expect you to work. Not having American-style syllabi or reading assignments doesn’t indicate that there isn’t any work to do for the class. In fact, professors assume that students will do large amounts of research and reading outside of class. To them, telling someone what and when to read is insulting to their intelligence as adults.
Professors will likely pass out a list of 30-50 selected books. How many of the listed works should you actually read? It depends on a variety of decisions that no one can make for the you. It depends on how much you already know about the subject, what you are interested in, and how much you want to learn about the material. You may not find all references equally helpful or written in a style that you can digest. In other words, you have to make your own informed decision on what to include or exclude from their personal reading schedule. Some students (French or foreign) choose to do
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the minimum. In the end, they are the only ones that can be blamed if they pass a course with the lowest possible grade or fail it.
The French university system has its own rhetoric and codes that students (including foreign students) should learn. It includes acquiring a new vocabulary, way of thinking, and style. There are academic exercises that every student in a French university is expected to, perhaps not master but at least, understand and perform adequately. These vary from one discipline to another. They are:
la dissertation (a French-style essay) le commentaire composé (another French-style paper most
commonly used in literature classes) l’exposé oral (an oral presentation/report) le dossier (a research paper) la fiche de lecture (a book report)
Of course, most professors understand that foreign students, unlike French students, do not usually have any experience with these exercises prior to coming to France. Still, they expect all students to make the effort to understand the nature of these exercises and to achieve adequately.
Grades in French institutions are on a scale of 20, with 10/20 as the moyenne. You should not convert to percentages. A grade equivalency chart can be found below. In order to comprehend and perform an assignment, foreign students sometimes have to work as much, if not more, than they would in their own academic system.
Note that final exams are scheduled late in the semester, so you should not make travel plans before the end of the official university examination period (see calendars). Program students are required to stay through exam period at the university.
ProfessorsFrench professors may not be as accessible as U.S. faculty members are. They are not expected to spend as much time at the university or to hold office hours. If you need to talk to one of your professors, you should approach her or him at the end of class, never at the beginning. As a matter of principle, ask them politely when would be a good time to see them. Don’t expect that they are going to answer your question on the spot. They may have another class or meeting.
TUTORIALS AND ACADEMIC SUPPORTThe French School (in the summer) and the School in France arrange special courses, workshops, and tutorials. They are designed to introduce students to the formats of French-style papers. They are taught by French faculty, instructors, or graduate students to help students better understand the
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various French academic exercises. Students should not hesitate to inquire about these opportunities.
CONVERSION OF GRADES
Middlebury Courses16 – 20 A Excellent travail15 - 15,9 A- Très bon travail14 - 14,9 B+ Bon travail12 - 13,9 B Assez bon travail10 - 11,9 B- Passable9 – 9,9 C+ No credit8 – 8,9 C No credit7-7,9 C- No credit6-6,9 D No credit< 6 F No crédit
Universités de Paris Courses 15 – 20 A Excellent travail14 - 14,9 A- Très bon travail13 - 13,9 B+ Bon travail11,5 - 12,9 B Assez bon travail10 – 11,4 B- Passable9 – 9,9 C+ No credit8 – 8,9 C No credit7-7,9 C- No credit6-6,9 D No credit< 6 F No credit
LEARNING OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM Volunteer work, language partnerships (exchange), and cultural activities provide you with opportunities to deepen your social immersion in French culture, enhance your language skills, and gain a better understanding of present-day France.
Volunteer WorkIf you wish to contribute your time and service to the community you may choose to work as a volunteer with organizations in the non-profit or educational sector. The Student Life Coordinator in Paris can assist you in finding volunteer opportunities.
Language PartnershipsLanguage exchanges with French students are an excellent way of improving your language proficiency level and of establishing friendships. The Student Life Coordinator in Paris will assist you in finding language partners at the beginning of the academic year.
Cultural ActivitiesThe School in France believes that exposure to French culture is an integral part of your experience and thus offers several activities and cultural outings every month, some of which are also open to French students. Other options that facilitate student immersion include sports, cultural, and outdoor activities. The School staff and host institution contacts are available to advise you on a wide range of co-curricular activities. Most French universities have active ERASMUS international student organizations that offer many activities. Their offices are also excellent starting points to obtain information on cultural events, extracurricular activities, day trips, concerts, plays, art exhibits, and other local events. See also section “Meeting the French.”
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LIVING IN FRANCE
PERMIT OF STAY/TITRE DE SEJOURUpon arrival in France, all foreign students who are studying in for the semester or the full academic year are required to apply for a residency permit (VLS-TS) that allows you to live legally in France.
Make sure your passport is stamped upon entering France or Schengen territory. You will need this stamp as proof of arrival.
Students studying in Paris will fill out the paperwork for the residency permit at the Centre Madeleine during the “Residency permit meeting. There are two steps to obtaining your “VLS-TS residency permit:
In preparation for the first step, you must bring the following items to the “Residency permit” meeting:
(1) 1 legible photocopy of identification pages of passport(2) 1 legible photocopy of visa page of passport(3) Photocopy of your passport stamp, which you received upon entering
France or Schengen territory.(4) The questionnaire“Visa de Long Séjour – Demande d’Attestation OFII”
that you received at the French consulate.
We will personally hand in your documents to the Préfecture de police. You will then receive a medical appointment at the OFII. (You will be asked to take X-rays and see the doctor.)In preparation for the second step, you must bring the following documents to the medical appointment:
(1) 1 French-format photos [3,5cm x 4,5cm, black and white (you can easily buy a black and white picture while in France); no head accessories or eyeglasses. Scanned photos will not be accepted
(2) Proof of residency in France (which we will provide upon arrival in France).
(3) You must buy a €55 stamp (Middlebury in France will let you know where to obtain the stamp).
MEDICAL CAREIn France, social security’s medical coverage has two parts: the basic coverage, which guarantees a 70% reimbursement of medical care, and the supplemental coverage, also called mutual coverage, which picks up the remaining costs up. Basic coverage is mandatory for all French citizens.
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You are required to subscribe to French basic coverage ; it is an integral part of the French university registration process, if you are under the age of 28 years old. The cost is covered by the program on the students’ behalf.
We consider French health care first-rate, and it is usually somewhat less expensive than in the U.S. The School in France maintains a list of doctors, both general practitioners and specialists, psychological counselors, and psychiatrists, from whom students have received good care in the past. In some cases, you may call a doctor in advance to make an appointment; in other cases, you simply go to the doctor’s office during his/her heures de consultation. In the latter instance, you will have to wait your turn to see the doctor, but the fee is likely to be considerably lower (i.e., between 35€and 50€ -- this range is for general practitioners).
Please note that pharmacists in France are qualified to give medical advice and suggest treatment in connection with minor ailments; however, a pharmacist will not hesitate to refer you see a doctor if he or she feels your complaint calls for such a visit.
For a list of HTH approved physicians, please consult the following website:http://www.hthstudents.com/doctor_search/by_location.cfm
For a list of Anglophone physicians, please consult the following page of the U.S. Embassy in France’s website: http://photos.state.gov/libraries/france/5/acs/paris-doctors.pdf.
If you feel sick in the evening or on a weekend, you may call SOS Médecins (01.47.07.77.77) and a SOS Medecins doctor will come to your house (cost of visit: between 40 and 60€). You may also go to the emergency room salles d’urgence of any hospital or clinic located near you.
In an emergency requiring immediate attention, call the SAMU (Dial 15 directly from any phone). If you experience a medical emergency you should immediately call a staff member of the School in France, or have a friend contact us on your behalf.
HOUSING IN PARISStudents live in studios, apartments, foyers (student residences), or French homes. A student's housing choice is dependent upon individual preference, financial resources, and the availability of such housing. Foyers are private student residences, located mainly on the left bank. They are unaffiliated with any specific school or university and they house French students whose homes are not in Paris; they also house foreign students. The common language is usually French. We encourage students to give serious consideration to the foyer option, which permits them to meet other students and avoid the possible problem of loneliness that can arise in Paris or any large city. They also afford a degree of independence while providing a secure, congenial and less expensive place to live.
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More details will be provided during the summer housing orientation on the Vermont campus.
At the moment, the real estate market in Paris is particularly difficult to access given the high demand and very limited availability of furnished studios/apartments at reasonable prices. Please know that you are free to find housing on your own if you wish to do so. However, knowing the difficulties that may be encountered during the process, Middlebury offers the possibility of arranging housing beforehand, an option that students have found to be of great advantage. For this reason, the Student Life Coordinator will be on the Vermont campus in July. At that time you will have the opportunity to choose the housing option which best suits your needs and financial resources. At the housing meeting to be held on the Vermont campus, the Student Life Coordinator will provide a detailed list of studios, apartments, foyers and host families with costs, descriptions or photos, and addresses. This information is confidential and may not be shared with anyone outside the School in France. Photos of the different housing possibilities will also be available. This list has been compiled by the School in France; the housing options in it have been recommended by former students who wrote candid evaluations listing advantages and disadvantages, if any. Please note that all the options presented have been previously visited and selected by the Student Life Coordinator.
Our lists contain enough attractive housing for all students accepted to the Paris program. If you decide to take advantage of our housing options, we expect you to honor your commitment and agreement to the foyer or proprietor for the duration of your studies (see "Rights and Responsibilities" below).
Middlebury is not contractually responsible for housing arrangements and does not have authority over any lodgings.
How to Send the Security DepositIf you are staying in a studio, apartment or with a host family, you must send a deposit check in Euros (bank check) by July 20, 2012. There are different ways to send the deposit. You can send a Western Union money transfer (in Euros) to your host (although it is more expensive). You can also make a transfer from your account to your host family’s account. You can also make a check in Euros and send it via Fedex or a safe carrier.
If you choose to live in a foyer, you must send your deposit by July 15, 2012 (note that this date is earlier than studio, apartment or family). If you are staying in a student resident hall (foyer), your deposit must be sent in euros via an electronic transfer. See the instructions included in the foyer application on how to wire the deposit amount directly to the foyer.
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For all housing options, be aware that if you do not send the deposit by the dates mentioned above, you risk losing your place!! In this case, IT WILL BE YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO FIND ANOTHER SOURCE OF HOUSING!
The total amount of the deposit should equal one month's rent as indicated in your housing assignment. Remember, the first month’s rent must be paid upon your arrival in France. Rent for the following months should be paid between the 1st and the 5th of each month. The deposit may not be used as rent payment. You will get back your deposit at the end of your stay, if you or people you invite into your living arrangement have not damaged it in any way.
If you cancel less than a month before your arrival, you will lose your deposit.
If there is a problem of any nature with your housing, you should immediately inform the Student Life Coordinator of the School in France: we can often act as a mediator and help to remedy the problem. Should you decide for good reason to change living arrangements in the course of the year, you must notify your landlord or host family one month in advance. The rent for that month must be paid, and you may well lose your deposit. You have a right to expect, in turn, that the housing you have reserved corresponds to what was promised (in terms of furnishings, linens, meals, use of kitchen, etc.).
Whatever housing solution you adopt, it is expected that you will be considerate of the rights and sensibilities of others throughout your stay and that you will honor both the spirit and the letter of any formal or informal arrangements you enter into with hosts, landlords, or residence managers. Non-payment of rent, outstanding bills, and checks written against insufficient funds will not only harm your reputation but that of the School in France as a whole. It can also lead to your being denied re-entry into France in the future.
Be aware that most Parisians vacation in August, and over Christmas and New Year's. Remember to notify your landlord or host family well in advance in order to ascertain whether you will be able to move in upon arrival in Paris and continue to use the premises during the holidays. If necessary, you can always stay temporarily in a foyer or hôtel for short periods either while waiting for your housing to become available or over a vacation period.
Rights and Responsibilities (Règlement de principe)One of the most valuable experiences of your stay in France can be that of your living situation. This “total immersion” either in a family or student residence offers you valuable insight into French culture, providing a richer vision of traditions, customs, and day-to-day life. However, it should be understood that some families or hosts have a student in their homes because they want to have a cultural exchange with the student and also need the extra income. There may be rules on the use of appliances, meals, laundry, showers, telephone, etc., which vary according to the individual
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arrangement. Compared to U.S. standards, French homes are smaller and utilities are significantly more expensive. Courteous gestures, such as letting the hostess know when you will not be home for a meal, as well as economizing on hot water, electricity, and the hosts’ phone (if you’re allowed to use it), will greatly contribute to having an amicable relationship with your hosts.
You should understand that you are making a moral as well as a financial commitment to any student residence or proprietor with whom you agree to live. At the same time, the residence or the proprietor is making a commitment to you (often reserving a space many months in advance). Such commitments should not be taken lightly; proprietors (families particularly) may not be able to find another tenant once the academic year has started, and the student’s departure will almost certainly mean the loss of several months rent that the proprietor has counted on. Just as you would not appreciate being evicted because your proprietor wants your room for a relative or for a student willing to pay more, you should not leave housing if the proprietor has honored their commitment to you, simply because you have found something that suits you better once you are in France. Therefore, we ask that you keep their commitment throughout the term of their studies unless there are serious reasons for not doing so.
Again, you should expect to pay the equivalent of one month’s rent in advance to reserve your housing. This deposit will be kept as security against damage or outstanding bills until you leave. Your deposit will not be applied as payment for the first or last month’s rent. Be prepared to pay the first month’s rent upon your arrival in Paris. Note again that rent is paid monthly at the beginning of the month.
Should you need to change living arrangements during the course of the year or the semester, you must notify your residence manager or landlord one month prior to moving out and the rent for that month must be paid . If you decide to leave without one month’s notice, you will lose your deposit.
Students living with host families will be provided with the necessary linens, the corresponding number of meals, and use of kitchen, and washing machine. Some Foyers will ask students to provide their own linens and towels.
RENTER’S INSURANCEAll students housed by Middlebury must purchase renter’s insurance, Assurance Habitation, which covers theft, fire, water damage, keys lost, and liability, and includes the Responsabilité Civile (liability insurance) that provides coverage in case of damage or accidents (approximate cost: €100). This can be purchased upon your arrival. MEETING THE FRENCHOne of the questions we are asked most frequently is how to go about meeting French students. Those of your predecessors who have been
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successful in this respect would say that the best approach is to find a group activity that includes French people: playing sports, choral singing, cooking/wine-tasting courses, volunteer work, internships, etc -- anything that gives you an interest or an activity in common. You will need some courage and a good deal of initiative; results may not live up to your expectations, especially right away, but be patient. Keep in mind the strategies you would use at home to meet people you are interested in knowing: you try to be where they are, you try to share an interest or an activity that will bring you into contact with them, and you get to know people who know them. It goes without saying, if you have one or two French acquaintances to start out with, it can only make things easier. Conversely, if you speak English in public it will make things more difficult.
The Club International des Jeunes à Paris (CIJP) is an association that organizes cultural activities and linguistic exchanges to promote cultural exchanges between French and international students and young professionals living in Paris. It’s a great place to meet people! Check out: http://www.club-international.org/
Sports and Other ActivitiesIn Paris, the Service Universitaire des Sports organizes at each University numerous sporting activities of a great variety each week (e.g., muscle training, athletics, badminton, dance, yoga, martial arts, rugby, volleyball, swimming, etc) led by certified teachers or qualified trainers. There is a sports office in every French university. There is a lot of demand for these activities since they are free of charge and available for all students (French and foreign). If interested, sign up as soon as you obtain your student card. Do not wait too long to sign up as space is limited. In order to register for these activities, please get in touch with the SUAPS office upon your arrival. Please ask us, and we will provide you with the necessary contact information.Paris 1http://uefaps.univ-paris1.fr/
Paris 3http://www.univ-paris3.fr/49620385/0/fiche___defaultstructureksup/Click on “La brochure du SUAPS” in the menu on the right side of the screen for a list of courses available.
The city of Paris offers myriad of possibilities as far as sports and other activities for the residents of each district or arrondissement. These classes, offered to Paris residents for a minimum fee, are extremely popular and well-reputed amongst Parisians, which explains why they rush to sign up at the beginning of the academic year (la rentrée). In order to benefit from this possibility, a student must visit her/his district’s town hall to pick up a registration form and send it back as soon as possible in order to reserve a spot in one of these classes.
Volunteer WorkYou can get involved in volunteer work and put your skills to use during the
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year in Paris in several different ways. For example, « Montparnasse Rencontres » has offered our students opportunities such as assisting immigrant children and teenagers in their school work. There is also the Centre de Volontariat de Paris where students may find opportunities to work on human rights, social exclusion, and assisting the sick and elderly, among others. This is an excellent way to integrate into the local culture. There are also some paid and unpaid internship opportunities. Consult with the Student Life Coordinator in the School in France office. Be sure to do this early in the year so that you are able to gain fully from the experience.
EATING IN FRANCELe Resto U (university cafeterias)French students often eat at the university restaurant managed by the CROUS*. This is a great setting to meet and speak with French students. The CROUS is in charge of a large number of university cafeterias in Paris, Poitiers, and Bordeaux. They have a variety of establishments, including cafeterias, salad bars, pizzerias, crèperies, etc. There is even a Sunday brunch in one of the Paris Resto U. If you want to save money, this is the place to eat. A full meal is approximately 3€. Restaurant tickets can be bought in a packet of 10 at the CROUS or in the restaurants themselves when you show your university identity card. The restaurants are open Monday through Friday. On the weekends and on holidays at least one restaurant will be open. Please consult the hours of operation signs posted in the Restos U or visit:http://www.cnous.fr/_vie_35.htm *Centre Régional des Oeuvres Universitaires et Scolaires
TRANSPORTATION IN PARISThe first thing to buy in Paris is a “plan de Paris” in booklet form (the Paris Poche “L’indispensable” is excellent). It contains maps of the metro and the various bus lines, in addition to complete street maps by arrondissement. Even Parisians use them!
“Carnets” of 10 tickets that can be used for both the metro and the bus system (unlimited distance within Paris in both cases) can be purchased for €12.70. Tickets bought individually cost €1.70. The “Pass Navigo” (weekly or monthly pass), which allows you an unlimited number of trips on the metro and bus within the city of Paris, costs €19.15 for a weekly pass and €62.90 for a monthly pass. Year-long students can apply for the Carte Imagine R, which is €306.50 for the year. For additional information regarding transportation in Paris and the price of metro/bus tickets and passes go to: http://www.ratp.fr/
Thanks to a fairly new and progressive mayor, Paris is steadily becoming a more bike-friendly city. You can rent a ‘Velib’ bike for 30 min. and leave it at the next ‘Velib’ station. Cars are surprisingly respectful, but be sure to have a light and a reflective vest at night (it’s French law!), as well as a helmet at all times.To see prices and information go to: http://www.velib.paris.fr/
TRAVELING WITHIN FRANCE
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The School in France organizes several excursions during the year for all students. You pay your individual share of an advantageous group rate for hotel, meals, and museum entrance fees. The School in France covers at least half of the cost. We try to select itineraries and destinations that would be difficult or more expensive if pursued individually. Examples of past excursions include: an overnight excursion to Normandy, Allied Landing beaches and Mont Saint-Michel, a 2-day trip to Avignon and its region, and several day trips to Versailles, Chantilly, Fontainebleau, and Vaux le Vicomte (Paris students). Week-end excursions participation fees range from 90 to 180€, depending on the length (one or 2 nights).
Student organizations at the various institutions in Paris as well as the CNOUS/CROUS (Centre Régional des Oeuvres Universitaires et Scolaires) often organize group excursions and trips. The cost is always reasonable, and such trips are a wonderful opportunity to get to know French students while doing something you enjoy. Visit their website at http://www.cnous.fr/
We encourage students to take advantage of the numerous vacation periods not only to explore Paris but to get to know France. As you know, Paris n’est pas la France, which is to say Paris is only one aspect of a country that, though it is relatively small, presents infinite variety.
When leaving Paris overnight or longer, you should fill out the Travelog form on the School in France website (http://www.middlebury.edu/ls/grad_programs/french/program_tracks/paris) to notify the staff of your itinerary and/or addresses and phone numbers where they can be reached. This information will be kept confidential and accessed only in case of emergencies or urgent messages from parents. As a matter of courtesy and common sense, students living with host families should similarly inform them when they plan to be away.
Train The most popular mode of transportation in France is the train. There are many discounts available to persons under 25 for travel within France. The ‘Carte 12-25’ which you can buy upon arrival in France, for approximately 50€, will allow you to have a discount on train tickets of up to 50%. The card is valid for up to a year. Information about these discounts is available at any train station and the various student travel agencies throughout the city. You may also get it at any Boutique SNCF. There is one near the Centre Madeleine on rue Chauveau Lagarde. Many discounts are available for persons of all ages; in fact, if you have visitors who want to travel inexpensively, be sure to check what discounts may be available to them. For additional train information, you can go to http://www.sncf.fr/ .
BicycleMany train stations offer bicycle rental and car rental services. An attractive option is to travel by train to a nearby or distant destination and then explore the countryside by bike on your own. Bicycle excursions are also sometimes offered by student travel agencies or by student organizations. Check bulletin boards at the institutions where you are taking courses.
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BusIntercity bus transportation tends to be lower in cost than second-class rail travel, and many of the buses on the road these days are fairly spacious, have bathrooms, and show movies. Where a choice is available, check schedules and prices, since bus travel is sometimes faster and in any event more scenic than train travel. Discounts are available to students.Check out: http://www.eurolines.fr/.
Budget Travel ResourcesThe book Let’s Go France is very useful for information on low-budget lodging and meals, sites and places of interest, transportation, and helpful addresses such as post offices, cybercafes, etc. It is updated yearly and sold in the U.S. Other good travel guides in French include: Le guide du routard and Le Petit Futé series.
Discounted student airline tickets can be purchased at the Office de Tourisme Universitaire (OTU) at the CROUS1. The travel agency Nouvelles Frontières also has low-priced tickets for students under age 25.
TRAVELING IN EUROPEIf you plan to travel to other countries, be advised that regulations regarding necessary visas or entry and exit permits vary and may change at very short notice. Consult a travel agent or the corresponding country’s consulate and/or embassy for current procedures before making any travel arrangements.
Hitchhiking as a mode of transportation anywhere in Europe is strongly discouraged as a matter of Middlebury College policy. The practice is regarded by European security officials to be extremely unsafe and is often illegal. Buses and trains provide a low-cost, safe alternative.
1 The CROUS is located at 39 avenue Georges Bernanos, Paris 5e, RER Port-Royal.
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ON-SITE MONEY MATTERS
You may want to bring enough cash (euros) with you from the U.S. to get you through the first days of your term abroad, or at least to last until you can get to a bank or ATM. Generally speaking, we advise students to have some of their money in dollars and some in euros in order to take best advantage of changes in the currency rate. It is often advantageous to buy euros in a bank that offers currency exchange services rather than at a bureau de change. The latter post a rate already reduced by a percentage of the amount you are changing, whereas banks normally post a better rate and charge a flat commission; do some comparison shopping. Which operation is more favorable will normally depend on how large an amount you are changing. Note that you never get the rate quoted in the daily newspaper, which is the “big bank rate.”
Be aware that there will be many expenses at the beginning of the year: rent deposit, first month’s rent payment, phone installation charges, transportation pass, phone cards, museum memberships, excursions, etc. You should have access to about 1,500 Euros at the beginning of the semester to pay for these expenses, many of which require cash.
BANKING IN FRANCEAlthough not required, opening a bank account in France will most likely facilitate your money transactions throughout your stay, especially when you take into consideration the recent volatility of the euro/dollar exchange rate. Also, having a European bank card may facilitate purchases where only cards with a “chip-and-PIN”are accepted. You will probably want to open a checking account or a compte courant. Be sure to check on minimum balance and other specific requirements before opening an account, and keep in mind that a bank draft or personal check in dollars can take up to eight weeks to clear in a French bank, even if you are an account-holder in good standing. The bank will charge a commission for the exchange operation. It is a good idea to open an account soon after your arrival in France and, if you can, it is probably more economical and faster to wire a larger amount of money from the U.S. at the beginning of your stay rather than several smaller amounts throughout the semester or the year. However, this is your decision to make. Given students’ past experiences, we strongly encourage you to favor the wire transfer as opposed to cashing a check in dollars which may take as long as 10 weeks.
Generally speaking, it is preferable to open an account at a bank in your neighborhood. However, students in Paris also find it convenient to have their account at a bank near the Centre Madeleine. The Crédit Mutuel on 7, blvd Malesherbes, which is across the street from our Center. If you are a Bank of America customer you can also go to the BNP, which is its partner bank in France and where the international ATM access fee is waived. The BNP, right across Notre-Dame-La-Grande in Poitiers have been accommodating to our students. In Bordeaux, the BNP, 67 rue Sainte Catherine, seems to be a friendly option for students. Please note that it will take 8-10 days after the account is created to received your bank card.
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To open a bank account, you will need to provide: a photocopy of your passport and your visa (and bring the original
with you) proof of housing provided by Middlebury a letter of enrollment from the Director of the School in France
(Attestation d’études) (Optional) a deposit slip or some other ID from your U.S. bank
account which could be useful when refunding any unused balance at the end of your stay.
Ordinary checks in France are non-endorsable (i.e., no third-party checks), and they may not be made out for more than the amount owed. One of the advantages of having a compte courant, if you are allowed to open one, is that personal checks on a French bank are widely accepted in France; this can be a great convenience when traveling or just on a shopping expedition. There is a flip side: it is an extremely serious matter to “bounce” a check in France (faire un chèque sans provisions) — learn how to say it, but don’t do it!
It is also possible to have money wired from the U.S. by Telex directly into your French account. During the course of the year, this is probably the fastest and most reliable means of transfer. Again, it is extremely important to specify not only the name of the bank but also the branch number and address, the name of the beneficiary (i.e. your name), and your individual account number. You may also have money wired to you at American Express2 via Telex, which is almost never subject to strikes, but charges a commission.
Remember to close out your account (fermer votre compte) two weeks before leaving France — you may have interest coming to you, and in any case your mail will not be forwarded indefinitely.
Although U.S. credit cards and/or debit cards are very convenient to have (and highly recommended), do be advised that if you do not have your own bank account in France, it may prove quite difficult to cash checks you might receive from financial aid or from relatives. Also note that though personal checks drawn on U.S. banks can be cashed in the French bank where you have an account, a commission is charged, and the check may take some time to clear. The commission may be quite high, reducing birthday checks, for example, to virtually nothing. It is best to have your financial aid checks sent directly to someone in the U.S. who can deposit them into your U.S. bank, from which you can draw money with your ATM card. Please indicate to the financial aid office where you would like your check to be sent before departure.
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? The American Express office, 11 rue Scribe, 75009 Paris (a 10-minute walk from the Centre Madeleine).
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CREDIT/DEBIT CARDSVisa and Mastercard are widely accepted in France and other foreign countries and are more common than ATMs accepting Cirrus cards. You will want to obtain either card before leaving the U.S. Be sure to confirm with your bank that your credit and/or debit card can be used overseas. It is essential that you have your PIN (Personal Identification Number) if you expect to withdraw money from an ATM; it will also occasionally be required for purchases in stores as well. Confirm that your PIN is valid outside of the U.S. before you leave. Cash advances and purchases made with a debit card will be debited directly and within 24 hours to your U.S. account with a small, 2-3% charge (but at the best available “big bank” rate for that day). Cash advances obtained with a credit card also accrue interest from the time of the cash advance, so you may want to make a practice of pre-paying your credit card charges. Do not carry your card and PIN together!If you open an account in a French bank, you may be able to ask for a Carte Bleue (valid just in France, or internationally, for a slightly higher fee). This can be very convenient, and many students have used this method. Purchases and cash advances are debited to your French bank account. This will also avoid having to use your U.S. debit/credit card particularly when the exchange rate is not favorable to the dollar.
You may want to check out Travelex’s “Cash Passport”debit card which can be issued in the US and preloaded with a set amount of money. It can be used in ATM’s and places where the VISA electron logo is displayed. For more information: www.cashpassport.com
Additionally, you may use the services of the American Express office in Paris to 1) draw a certain amount of money upon presentation of an American Express credit card, and 2) cash a personal check on an American bank (also on presentation of the card). Please contact the American Express Office for further details.
EMERGENCY CASHBEFORE you leave, you should discuss with your family a plan for getting more money in case of an emergency. Check Western Union details and service fees, credit card services, and ATM availability.
WORKING IN FRANCEA foreigner may not work in France without a work permit, and ordinarily the French government does not issue a work permit when a foreigner is seeking to fill a position for which EU citizens are qualified and available. However, as a student, it might be possible for you to obtain a paid-internship, as students have the right to work up to 20 hours per week.
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COMMUNICATION WITH HOME & FRIENDS
COMMUNICATION AND IMMERSIONStudents who seek maximum immersion should note that regular communication with home can significantly hinder their language progress and their adjustment to the new culture. If your goal is maximum immersion, you should prepare family and friends for the reality that you may be difficult to contact and that, even when possible, regular calling or e-mailing may interfere with your language acquisition. If something has gone wrong, your family will learn about it immediately. Otherwise, you can remind them that no news is good news.
MAIL Your official address will be your own address in Paris. Once you have permanent housing, you may want to give your home address in Paris to frequent correspondents. Remember to include ‘chez Mme…..’ after your name for the mailbox will most likely have your landlord’s last name on it. Be sure to tell anyone from whom you expect to receive packages that they should address them clearly and indicate precisely what they contain (e.g., personal effects, used clothing, etc.). If you are sending or having sent to you, although not recommended, any electronic equipment (computer, printer, etc.), be sure to have a copy of the invoice or bill for such equipment to show customs and have the sender indicate that you are a student. Customs may be willing to waive the VAT (20.6% of the value), particularly if the equipment is used or more than six months old.
However, once again, we recommend that you DO NOT send or have sent to you items such as computers, printers, iPods, etc. These have been lost/stolen in the past.
Packages should not be mailed to the Centre Madeleine as they may require payment of additional handling or customs fees and/or the signature of the receiver.
Baggage CANNOT be accepted or held in the School in France office at any time.
Before leaving Paris at the end of the year, students should be sure to change their address with regular correspondents, their bank, etc., and to leave their permanent address with the School in France staff. Though we will make every effort to forward any mail received after you leave, be aware that the School in France is not responsible for mail that arrives after your departure; we cannot forward mail indefinitely. For a one-time fee, La Poste offers mail forwarding service overseas up until 6 months after leaving France.
You can buy stamps at the Post Office, of course, but also at any Bureau de tabac. Air mail rates are considerably higher in France than they are in the U.S. (as of this writing, 0.87€ for a France-US stamp if the letter or postcard does not weigh more than 20g). La Poste now sells pre-stamped domestic
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and international mail envelopes (“prêt à poster”) in packages of ten, at a considerable savings over what the envelopes and stamps would cost separately. N.B. It costs the same to send a postcard as it does to send a letter.
E-MAIL There are many Internet providers and cybercafés in Paris that provide Internet access at very reasonable rates and extended hours late at night and during the weekend. While the Centre Madeleine cannot approach the technological infrastructure available on the Vermont campus, the program does provide a number of computers (Mac and PC) for use in our computer room, a laser printer, and a half dozen hook-ups for portable computers. Our computers are all equipped with MS Word. The equipment might not meet demand at certain times of the year (during final exams period in January, for example). At the Centre Madeleine, study-related word processing will always take priority over e-mail. The computer lab is open during normal business hours.
For students bringing their own laptop computers, we have wireless access at the Centre Madeleine. Please note that we have an 802.11g type network. If your laptop computer already has a wireless card, you can easily connect to the office’s wireless network. If your computer does not have an integrated wireless card you may buy one beforehand; please make sure that your card is compatible with our network. You can also find external wireless cards in Paris computer stores for approximately 50€/card for PCs.
Each student will receive a middlebury.edu e-mail address for use while completing the M.A. degree. Please make sure to check your middlebury.edu address regularly, since official information will be sent to this address.
TELEPHONENote that public phones now work only with a télécarte which can be purchased in different denominations at any post office, bureau de tabac, or kiosque de presse.
You may also buy a long-distance calling card in France to call overseas for 7€-10€. With this type of card, you dial a local French number and then enter the code on the back of your card. It is advisable to use this type of card rather than a calling card such as AT&T or other which is usually very expensive (approximately 1€/minute). Many internet provider and telephone companies now offer a package including cable TV and free long-distance calls to the U.S. and Europe for approximately 30€/month. You may want to install such a package upon arrival in France, if your landlord allows it. It usually takes 4-6 weeks between ordering internet service and having it actually installed.
Be sure to observe French telephone etiquette when calling to or from the family phone in a private home. It is impolite to call or receive a call before 9:00 a.m., or after 9:00 p.m. unless this has been previously arranged with your host. If you can get a cell phone, we recommend you use it instead of
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the hosts’ phone to make your personal calls. If you need to use the house phone for whatever reason, ask before you do so.
CELL PHONESThe use of cell phones in France is common, and they are easily obtainable. There are currently two systems: 1) pre-paid cards which give you a certain amount of minutes and 2) a year-long contract for 2, 4, or 6 hours per month and special offers such as unlimited calls to other French cell phones in the evening. In the past, year students have been able to obtain a contract with a cell phone operator by showing proof of residence (this is less expensive than the pre-paid card system). In France, all received calls on a cell phone are free of charge.
FAX If you wish to send a fax, you may do so at any post office. There are stores in Paris (often computer stores or photocopy businesses) that will handle faxes.
PHOTOCOPYINGThe School in France’s photocopier is for office use only. Please note that any photocopying required for coursework is considered your responsibility. The School in France photocopier cannot be used for such purposes.
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LOCAL INFORMATION
PARIS
EmergenciesDuring the on-site orientation, you will receive an Emergency Card listing emergency numbers, which they should carry with them at all times.
These numbers are toll-free from any public phone:
15 SAMU (Emergency Medical Team/Ambulance)17 Police 18 Pompiers (Fire Department)
01.47.07.77.77 - SOS Médecins (private company for emergency doctors)
01.40.37.04.04 - Anti-Poison Center
01.43.37.51.00 - SOS Dentistes(private company for emergencies)
01.45.74.00.04 - SOS Drogues(private company for drug emergencies)
01.47.23.80.80 - SOS Help(English-speaking hotline open daily 3 p.m.-11 p.m.)
If you are looking for a doctor that is covered by your HTH insurance, go to: http://www.hthstudents.com/doctor_search/by_location.cfm.
If you are looking for doctors recommended by the American embassy go to: http://photos.state.gov/libraries/france/5/acs/paris-doctors.pdf
HospitalsIF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR HOSPITALS THAT PARTICIPATE IN THE HTH INTERNATIONAL HEALTHCARE COMMUNITY, GO TO:http://www.hthstudents.com/doctor_search/by_location.cfm.
If you are looking for the French public hospital closest to your place of residence, go to the website of the Assistance publique – Hôpitaux de Paris and you will find the addresses and phone numbers of all the hospitals in the Paris area:http://www.aphp.fr/index.php?module=hopital&action=hopitaux_liste&vue=liste_hopitaux_alpha_fo
CounselingThe Counseling Center at the American Cathedral23, avenue George V75008 Paris
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Tel: 01.47.23.61.13
Religious InstitutionsAmerican Cathedral in Paris (Episcopal)23, avenue George V, 75008 ParisTel: 01.53.23.84.00
American Church in Paris (all Protestant denominations)65, quai d’Orsay, 75007 ParisTel: 01.40.62.05.00 Saint Joseph’s Church (Roman Catholic)50, avenue Hoche, 75008 ParisTel: 01.42.27.28.56
Liberal Synagogue24, rue Copernic, 75116 ParisTel: 01.47.04.37.27
Mosque Abu Bakr As Siddio39, boulevard de Belleville, 75011 ParisTél: 01 48 06 08 46
Lost and FoundCentre des Objets Trouvés de la Préfecture de Police de Paris36, rue des Morillons75015 Paris8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., & Tuesdays and Thursdays 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Credit Card CancellationAmerican Express11, rue Scribe, 75009 ParisTel: 01.47.77.70.009:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday
BankAmericard (Visa) Tel: 08.00.90.20.3324 hours a day for loss or theft
Master Card, Cirrus, Plus, Visa, or MasterCard:Eurocard France16, rue Lecourbe, 75015 ParisTel: 01.45.67.84.8424 hours a day; (to notify the bank in the U.S.: 01.43.23.20.76)
Currency exchangeMulti-Change8 blvd de la Madeleine75009 ParisTél. 01 49 24 96 62Open Monday – Saturday 9:30am - 6:30pm
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Check website for other addresses in Paris: http://www.multi-change.com/
Travel AgenciesOrganisation de Tourisme Universitaire (OTU)39, avenue Georges Bernanos, 75005 Paris
Voyage Wasteels11 rue Dupuytren, 75006 ParisTél. 01 43 25 12 52 M° Odéon
The RATP and SNCF both have useful websites. There is a SNCF boutique near the Centre Madeleine on rue Chauveau Lagarde.
BookstoresGibert Joseph, 26, boulevard Saint-Michel, 75006 ParisGibert Jeune, 2 place Saint-Michel, 75006 ParisFNAC, 109, rue St.Lazare, 75009 Paris As well as numerous others FNAC stores throughout Paris ; go to the following page of their Website to find the store closest to your place of residence:http://www.fnac.com/localiser-magasin-fnac/w-4Shakespeare & Company, 37, rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 ParisVirgin Megastore, 52, avenue des Champs-Elysées, 75008 Paris
(There are of course thousands of bookstores in Paris, some of them very specialized; don’t forget to look for used books (livres d’occasion) that cost much less than new ones. There is a wonderful used book market in the 15th arrondissement, rue Dantzig, right next to the Parc André Citroën, open every Sunday.)
Cyber-CafésMilk Internet Hall (Open 24 hours/day, everyday)6 Locations in Central Paris:
Les Halles, 31 bd Sébastopol, Paris Paris 1er
Saint-Michel, 53 rue de la Harpe, Paris 5ème Panthéon, 17 rue Soufflot, Paris 5ème Montparnasse, 5, rue Odessa, Paris 14ème Opéra, 28 rue du Quatre Septembre, Paris 2ème
Bastille, 20 rue du Faubourg St Antoine, Paris 12ème
Department StoresGaleries Lafayette et PrintempsMétro:Havre-Caumartin10 minutes walking distance from the Centre Madeleine
Bazar de l’Hotel de Ville Métro: Hôtel de Ville
Bon Marché (not très bon marché in fact)
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Métro: Sèvres-Babylone
LibrariesA list of libraries is included in the graduate research guide that all graduate students receive during their initial summer at Middlebury College.
Municipal libraries in the different Parisian arrondissements are accessible free of charge. You can borrow up to 5 books for 3 weeks. You must sign up to obtain a library card. Documents required: ID & proof of address in Paris. These are usually closed on Sundays and Mondays.
For a comprehensive list of libraries in Paris (arranged by arrondissement, including detailed location and opening hours), please visit: http://www.paris.fr/portail/Culture/Portal.lut?page_id=7973
Other Online Resourceshttp://b14-sigbermes.apps.paris.fr/medias/medias.aspx?INSTANCE=EXPLOITATION Depuis le site de la mairie de Paris : culture > bibliothèques > catalogues
http://www.republique-des-lettres.fr/
http://gallica.bnf.fr/
http://www.culture.gouv.fr/ Site du Ministère de la Culture et de la Communication (liens sur le livre et la culture)
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TENTATIVE ACADEMIC CALENDAR2012-13
*Please Note: To date, French official academic calendars have not been published.Therefore, these dates are subject to modification.
Students should regularly consult the web page of the School in France for updates on the calendar: www.middlebury.edu/ls/grad_programs/french/program_tracks/paris/calendar
First mandatory Orientation meeting for graduate students:Monday, September 3, 2012
All Middlebury-center courses begin:Monday, September 10, 2012
Holiday break begins:Friday, December 21, 2012
End of program:Saturday, June 15, 2013
The School in France (Centre Madeleine) will closed on French legal holidays, during school vacations, in July and August.
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