STUDY ABROAD: MYTH VERSUS REALITY
Nicole Bauge
Department of Modern Languages
Northern Arizona University
The presenter provides original research based upon findings conducted through extensive experience as director of a study abroad program for university students in Annecy, France. The mythic image of France and its cultural patrimoine are seen from the perspective of American students immersed in the everyday reality of life in a French university setting.
The study examines impressions of students who have explored their expectations and preconceived notions concerning various aspects of French culture while studying abroad in France. Living in a family, they revisit such topics as personal needs, political climate as well as current issues facing France and Europe. These findings, compared with pre-arrival expectations, are presented in lively fashion with numerous visual examples.