Summer B Term:
July 11 – July 19
2014
France & Belgium
INR 2002: INTERNATIONAL
POLITICS
Program Leader:
Professor Scott Creamer
screamer@valenciacollege.edu
phone 407-582-4971
office: Osceola 3-323
Program Provider:
KEI Abroad
http://www.keiabroad.org/
Information in this booklet is subject to change without notice.
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Table of Contents
PART 1: PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Welcome

Program Description

Program Eligibility

Location and Dates
pp.4-5
PART 2: FINANCES

Scholarship Eligibility

Tuition and Fees

Program Application Fee

Program Deposit Payment

Program Balance Payment

Waitlisted Students

Financial Aid & Advising

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Cancellation Policy
pp.5-9
PART 3: PROGRAM ACADEMICS

Course Description

Credit Hours

Course Format

Major Topics/Concepts/Skills/Issues

Learning Objectives

Valencia Student Core Competencies

Nature and Scope of the Course

Instructional Materials

Grading Scale

Course Assignments and Grading

Description of Assignments

Attendance Policy and No-Show Policy

Withdrawal Policy

Make-Up Policy

Academic Honesty

Internet Research Statement

Students with Disabilities
pp.9-17
1

College Policies

Student Code of Conduct

Important Dates

Important Valencia Website Links

Disclaimer
PART 4: PROGRAM ITINERARY
pp.17-22
PART 5: PREPARING FOR STUDY ABROAD
pp.23-33

Passport

Visa

International Cell Phone Access

Time

Weather

Personal Budget

Flight Information

Accommodations

Transportation

Telephone in Europe

Internet Access

Electrical Needs

Meals

Tipping

Smoking

What to Bring

Packing List for Study Abroad
PART 6: CITIES, CULTURE, PEOPLE, AND LANGUAGE

Paris, France

Strasburg, France

French People & Culture

What Is Culture Shock?

Relieving Culture Shock

Questions and Phrases in French

Diversity and Discrimination
PART 7: HEALTHCARE ABROAD
pp.34-41
pp.41-43
2

Stay Healthy!

Dietary Concerns

Immunizations

Prescriptions

Insurance Coverage

Medical Treatment

Counseling Services
PART 8: SAFETY & EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Your Safety

Valencia’s Student Code of Conduct

Depart of State Travel Warning

Alcohol Policy

Safety Tips

In-Country Emergency Orientation

Emergency Contact Information
pp.43-47
PART 9: UPON YOUR RETURN

Reverse Culture Shock

Program Close-Out Process
pp.47-48
PART 10: RESOURCES
pp.48-49
WHO TO GO TO FOR WHAT
Questions about the course fitting into My Education Plan: Study abroad advisor
Visa for an international student: International advisor AND the country consulate or embassy
Visa for other non-U.S. passport holder: Country consulate or embassy
How to log into Atlas: Call 407-582-5444 and dial 1 for the student Atlas Help Desk
Atlas account questions: Answer Center (and the Business Office if they can’t help them)
Scholarship authorization: Answer Center
Financial aid: Answer Center or a study abroad advisor
Damage deposit or age 30+ payment: Program provider
Course academic/program logistic questions: Program leader
3
PART 1: Program Overview
Welcome!
Bienvenu! We’re thrilled that you have decided to participate in the
Valencia College program to France and Belgium! KEI is responsible for
managing the logistics of the program.
Valencia College and KEI are dedicated to making your experience abroad
rewarding. However, studying and traveling abroad involves a good deal of
uncertainty. This is inevitable because pinning down every small detail (and
sometimes even some larger ones) may not be possible on the same
timeline as is usual in the USA. By studying abroad, a student is trying to become part of a society that is different from home.
Notions of time, assumptions about written communication, and expectations for social relationships may be subtly or quite
dissimilar from those at home. These kinds of differences are true for developed countries as well as for the developing world.
The best advice we can provide is to be flexible and relaxed, knowing that things will usually work out. Our staff will do
everything possible to ensure that they actually do. Awareness that there will be things which you will not know with certainty will
help you approach your period of study abroad with patience as you cope with the details of preparation.
(The above statement was adapted from a web publication at Virginia Commonwealth University. It is the best advice we have
seen for students studying abroad.)
Program Description
This course will primarily involve analysis of world politics, focusing on the role of nation-states and international organizations
and on selected foreign policy issues. This is an introductory survey course in international relations designed to help the
student relate, organize, and analyze in a meaningful way the welter of political events that occur on the international level.
We will touch on a range of questions: What are the causes of important international outcomes? What are the sources of
power in the international arena? What role do states, international organizations, and transnational movements play in
international politics? What trends are most interesting or important for understanding the present and predicting the future?
It is a Gordon Rule course which requires a significant amount of student writing in assignments before the international travel
and in a final paper to be submitted following the study abroad. Minimum grade of C in the course is required if INR 2002 is
used to satisfy Gordon Rule and general education requirements.
Program Eligibility
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Apply by the deadline date
Be a degree-seeking Valencia student
Completed one semester within last year
Completed 12 college-level credits
Be at least 18 years old
Minimum GPA of 2.5 at the time of applying.
NOTE TO ALL STUDENTS: If participation in this study abroad
program will require you to miss other classes, you MUST obtain
permission from those professors to miss class. We cannot guarantee
that you will have an excused absence.
4
Locations & Dates
Summer B Term: July 11 – July 19, 2014
During the spring and summer semesters, students will be required to meet and
work to prepare themselves for the study-abroad component of the course.
Required readings, assignments, and other activities will be provided. From
July 11-19, 2014 the course will be a study abroad program in France and
Belgium. During this 9-day period, participants will have hands-on opportunities
to apply course material and learn of their practical application through tours
and discussions of, along with meetings with representatives of, UNESCO, the
EU, and NATO. The course culminates with a final paper due on August 2nd
that reflects on students- experiences.
PART 2: Finances
Scholarship Eligibility
Valencia College is committed to support study abroad. Each year, requests are
made to Student Development and the Valencia Foundation to provide scholarships
for both short-term and semester study abroad. Scholarships are awarded on firstcome, first-serve basis or committee review. In order to receive a scholarship, you
must:

You must apply by the application deadline date in order to receive the
FULL scholarship amount. Otherwise, you will only be eligible for a
PARTIAL scholarship.

Be a degree-seeking student at Valencia. Transient, audit, and dual
enrollment students do not qualify for scholarships.
o
If you are graduating in the fall, you are allowed to get a scholarship for spring break travel. If you are
graduating in the spring, you are allowed to get a scholarship for summer travel. Note that you will not have
access to financial aid after you graduate.

Have completed at least one semester with Valencia AND earned 12 college-level credits prior to travel within the last
year.

Have a minimum 2.5 GPA by the application deadline date. If this is your first term at Valencia, you can use your high
school or transfer GPA. You must submit an unofficial high school transcript or a transcript from your previous
institution and PERT scores. The SAGE office reserves the right to use the institutional, overall, transfer, or term GPA
and PERT scores to determine eligibility.

Be enrolled in the minimum number of credits in the term of your study abroad program: 3 for spring, 3 for fall, or 2 for
summer (please note that financial aid may have different requirements).

Receive only one scholarship for study abroad within the academic year.

Meet all course requirements (attend all pre- and post-trip meetings, participate in all in-country activities, turn in all
academic assignments, obtain a grade of a C or better).
5

Submit a thank you card to the donor addressed "To My Esteemed Donor."

Complete the online course evaluation within two weeks upon your return.

Be willing to participate in a SAGE event to help promote study abroad to future students.
Scholarship amounts vary year to year, and there is a cap of 50% of the program fee. It is important to note that the scholarship
amount is based on the projected program cost. If the cost goes down, the amount of your scholarship may go down in the
same proportion as well.
You will be issued the scholarship through your student account. This will be done at some point after you have made the
deposit payment and have been enrolled in the course. You can verify that the funds have been authorized in your student
account under the Term Balance tab. Funds will not be disbursed until the semester term when travel takes place. If you have
questions about your scholarship disbursement, you must visit the Answer Center.
If you do not complete all assignments, are ON TIME to all program activities, attend all programs activities, pass the course
with a C or better, and complete the program close-out process, YOUR SCHOLARSHIP MAY BE REVOKED. In addition, if
you are found guilty of breaking any rules associated with the Student Code of Conduct Policy (6Hx28:8-03) while on
study abroad, or you receive lower than a C for your final grade, YOUR SCHOLARSHIP WILL BE REVOKED.
Tuition and Fees
Please see your program website page for the
breakdown of the program fees. Note that the
program fee does NOT include the cost of tuition or
other semester fees: http://valenciacollege.edu/
international/studyabroad/students/shorttermprogra
ms.cfm. If you look to the right side of the page,
you will see a list of what is included with your
program cost and what is not included. It is
important to note that program fees may
INCREASE due to an increase in airfare, departure
taxes, or low enrollment in the program. See the
country website page for details on what is
included or not included in the program fee. These
items are listed below but see the webpage for the
most recent information. Remember that if you pay
out-of-state tuition, you will have to pay that for this
course as well.
What’s Included
What’s Not Included
Airfare
Ground transportation
Hotel accommodations
All breakfasts and one dinner
Medical/Trip insurance
Tours in program itinerary
Entrance fees to all sites
Tour director
Course materials
Course tuition and fees
Reassessment fee if less than 10
students
KEI $200 damage deposit (refundable)
Airport departure fees and taxes
increase
Luggage transport/storage fees
Lunches and most dinners
Internet access
Passport
Immunizations
Spending money
Tips
Program Application Fee
The deadline date for the application fee is listed on the program website page. This payment MUST be made at the Business
Office and is NON-REFUNDABLE unless (1) you are not accepted into the program, OR (2) Valencia cancels the program. You
will NOT see this amount appear in your Atlas account but it IS part of the total program fee. You must apply by the
application deadline date in order to qualify for the FULL scholarship amount.
Program Deposit Payment
The deadline date for the program deposit is listed on the program website page. Please note that the amount listed on the
program webpage is an ESTIMATE and is subject to change. This payment MUST be made in the Business Office and is NON-
6
REFUNDABLE. This fee is subject to increased based on airline ticket increases. You will NOT see this amount appear
in your Atlas account but it IS part of the total program fee.
If the SAGE office has to purchase the airline ticket for your program in your name, so the deposit that you pay covers at a
minimum the total amount of the ticket. You are allowed to make payments towards the deposit at the Business Office, but it
MUST be paid in full by the deadline date. Otherwise, you will not be enrolled in the course and you will be dropped from the
program.
After your deposit is paid, you will be enrolled in the course by the SAGE office. If we encounter holds on your account, you will
be informed to rectify the situation. YOU CANNOT BE ENROLLED IN THE COURSE UNTIL ALL HOLDS ARE CLEARED,
AND YOU ARE NOT OFFICIALLY IN THE PROGRAM UNTIL YOU ARE ENROLLED IN THE COURSE. It is important to note
that you will NOT see the application fee payment or the deposit payment applied to your Atlas student account, but these
payments ARE deducted from the total program cost shown on your student account.
Program Balance Payment
The balance payment is the other portion of your total program fee that is attached to the course section. This is the amount
that you will see in your Atlas account. Please note that the amount listed on the program webpage is an ESTIMATE and is
subject to change. You pay the balance through your student account. You may pay online through Atlas or in person at the
Business Office. Check your student account to see how much you owe. If you have sufficient financial aid to cover your
balance, you will not need to make a final program payment. You can now log into Atlas to access the NEW dynamic billing
feature:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Sign into Atlas
Go to “Students” tab
Go to Student Resources Channel, and select Business Office
Click on “Account Summary and Tuition Payment Options” link
From the Account Balance and Fee Payment Information page, click on “View my current schedule” link
You should now see a “Your Account” box on the top right of the web page. Click on the link “Current Account
Activity/Class Schedule within this box, and you can view detailed current account activity and class schedule.
Waitlisted Students
If the course filled before you applied, then you may have been added to the waitlist. You should know within a month after the
program application deadline date whether or not you will be added to the regular roster. In the meantime, it is very important
that you do the following:
-
Have a valid passport in hand.
Have no additional visa requirements (unless you are added very early in the process).
Have the total program fee ready to be paid.
Attend all predeparture meeting sessions.
Financial Aid & Advising
Short-term study abroad programs that meet the federal guidelines
are eligible for financial aid. This requires a total of 45 hours of
academically-related activities for every one (1) credit hour. Students
who are eligible for financial aid may use their aid towards the cost of
tuition and all program fees, with the exception of the application fee
and the initial program deposit, as long as the course satisfies your
degree requirements. It is important that the course counts towards a
7
degree or certificate program; otherwise your financial aid payment may be reduced.
Students are eligible for a maximum amount of student loans per academic year based on their grade level: freshman are
eligible for a maximum of $5500 if dependent, $9500 if independent; and as a sophomore they would be eligible for $6500 as a
dependent and $10,500 as an independent student. Once you borrow the maximum allowed at the grade level during one
academic year, you cannot receive additional loan funds unless you move up to the next grade level. You are considered
freshman status up to 30 credits and sophomore status at 31+ credits.
You should check with an advisor to see how the study abroad program enrollment might affect your financial aid package.
Please complete a MY EDUCATION PLAN or meet with an academic advisor for details:
EAST CAMPUS
Jocelyn Morales
407-582-2580
jmorales42@valenciacollege.edu
WINTER PARK CAMPUS
Kera Coyer
407-582-6891
kcoyer@valenciacollege.edu
WEST CAMPUS
Fontella Jones
407-582- 1216
fjones01@valenciacollege.edu
OSCEOLA CAMPUS
Eva Alipieva
407-582-4897
ealipieva@valenciacollege.edu
LAKE NONA CAMPUS
Jonathan Hernandez
407-582-7780
jhernandez71@valenciacollege.edu
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the scholarship be authorized so that I can see it in my account? Once the rosters are finalized, we
send the information to financial aid. You will know that the scholarship has been posted by checking the balance in
your Atlas account. This should happen before the final payment deadline date, but if not, please contact the SAGE
office.

How do I know if I need to make a final payment? If you see a $0 balance in your account, then you will know that
your aid has covered the final payment amount. The SAGE office will also be checking balances.

How much do I owe for a final payment? This depends on the financial aid you have available for the semester.
You need to log into your account to see the balance. If the scholarship has not been authorized yet on your account,
you need to deduct that amount from the balance reflected.

How do I log into my Atlas account and locate the information about my balance? Login to your Atlas account,
under Student tab, you will see a “My Account” channel with your account balance displayed.

Why is the amount due in my account different than what is listed on the program website? Tuition and fees is
not included in the total program fee listed on each program website page. Furthermore, the program fee on your
account has been reduced by your application fee and deposit payments. Tuition will be at an in-state or out-of-state
rate depending upon your residency status.

Why isn’t the deposit that I made showing in my Atlas account? Deposits are handled differently. The deposit
amount is part of the total program fee, but it is not attached to the course section as tuition, so you will not see your
deposit payment in Atlas.

What if I don’t have enough money to make the final payment due if I don’t have financial aid? You need to sign
up for TIPS (tuition installment plan): http://valenciacollege.edu/businessoffice/tuition-installment-plan/

What happens if I don’t pay by the deadline date? Due to the unique nature of the study abroad courses, the
system may not drop you from the course, but you are still responsible for the total amount due. Valencia will attempt
to collect any and all amounts due from a student, and notice will be sent to you via Atlas e-mail and/or mailing to the
current address on file. Until the debt is paid, the account will be placed on hold, prohibiting any future registration or
release of a transcript. Valencia also reserves the right to submit any uncollected debts to an external collection
agency at which time the collection costs will be added to your outstanding balance.
8

Where do I make a payment? For the program balance, you may make the payment on-line through your Atlas
account by electronic check or credit card for your program balance. Cash payments must be made at any campus
Business Office. All application fee payments and program deposits must be paid in person at any campus Business
Office, and you MUST inform the cashier which study abroad program you are making payment on, the professor(s)
leading the course, and the type of payment (application or deposit).

When does my financial aid get disbursed? It gets disbursed two weeks AFTER the start of your LAST class for the
semester.

Who should I speak to if I have questions about my Atlas account charges? You should go to the Business
Office at any campus.

Who should I speak to if I have financial aid questions? You should go to the Answer Center. If, for some reason,
they cannot answer your question, please see your campus study abroad advisor.

Can I use financial aid for the summer? Students are eligible for summer financial aid even if they did not attend a
prior semester, but they must enroll in at least 6 credits in order to qualify. Students may be eligible for the remainder
of their Pell Grant award if they did not attend full-time in either the Fall or Spring semesters.
Cancellation Policy
In the event that you cannot participate on the study abroad program, you will be assessed a cancellation fee which will include
the non-refundable program deposit and any other cancellation fees determined by the program provider. The amount of your
refund will depend upon WHEN you cancel. You will be refunded any amount over and above those fees. Once the final
program payment deadline date has passed, there are NO refunds for ANY reason. If you drop out of the program, you will still
be responsible for the FULL amount of the study abroad program payment.
Valencia reserves the right to DROP you from a program prior to departure for not completing the course requirements which
includes, but is not limited to, not attending the mandatory program orientations, not submitting assignments due before
program departure, not submitting SAGE forms due prior to departure, or not obtaining a passport or visa (if applicable). In this
case, YOU WILL NOT BE REFUNDED ANY PORTION OF YOUR PROGRAM PAYMENTS AND YOUR SCHOLARSHIP
WILL BE REVOKED.
IF THE COLLEGE HAS TO CANCEL A PROGRAM PRIOR TO
DEPARTURE, YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR A REFUND. AIRLINE
TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
PART 3: Program Academics
Course Description
This course will primarily involve analysis of world politics, focusing on the role of nationstates and international organizations and on selected foreign policy issues. This is an
introductory survey course in international relations designed to help the student relate,
organize, and analyze in a meaningful way the welter of political events that occur on the
international level. We will touch on a range of questions: What are the causes of important
9
international outcomes? What are the sources of power in the international arena? What role do states, international
organizations, and transnational movements play in international politics? What trends are most interesting or important for
understanding the present and predicting the future?
This is a Gordon Rule course which requires a significant amount of student writing in assignments before the international
travel and in a final paper to be submitted following the study abroad. Minimum grade of C in the course is required if INR 2002
is used to satisfy Gordon Rule and general education requirements.
Credit Hours
Three (3) semester hours of college credit will be awarded for the successful completion of this course. A grade for this course
will be assigned after the study-abroad portion is completed, the re-entry meeting has been completed, and all assignments
have been turned in.
Course Format
During the spring semester and earlier in the summer, students will be required to meet and work to prepare themselves for the
study-abroad component of the course. Required readings, assignments, and other activities will be provided to students by Dr.
Creamer.
From July 11-19, 2014 the course will be a study abroad program in France and Belgium. During this 9-day period, participants
will have hands-on opportunities to apply course material and learn of their practical application through tours and discussions
of, along with meetings with representatives of, UNESCO, the EU, and NATO. The course culminates with a final paper due on
July 29th that reflects on their experience(s).
Major Topics/Concepts/Skills/Issues:
-
-
The social scientific study of international politics
International Actors: nation-states,
intergovernmental organizations, nongovernmental organizations
Evolution of the nation-state
Anarchy
Polarity
International norms
Components of Power
Domestic sources of foreign policy
Role of the individual in foreign policy decisionmaking
-
-
International law and international organizations
International political economy
Economic interdependence
Global and regional economic integration
Economic development and underdevelopment
Development of critical thinking skills necessary to
understanding international political concepts and
issues.
Acquisition of research skills
Learning Objectives
1. Develop a comprehension of some of the key historical events in the creation of the nation-state system.
2. Gain an understanding of the causes of conflict and methods of conflict resolution.
3. Develop an understanding of the different approaches to the study of the international political economy.
4. Develop an understanding of the roles played by major international institutions within the international system.
7. Comprehend the relevance of various approaches and theories in influencing the study of international relations and
nation-states behavior.
8. Demonstrate the ability to research and analyze issues regarding international politics utilizing a variety of sources.
9. Demonstrate college-level writing.
10. Utilize critical thinking and the scientific method when analyzing political, social, and economic issues.
10
Valencia Student Core Competencies
Valencia faculty has defined four interrelating competencies (Think, Value, Communicate, Act) that prepare students
to succeed in the world community. These competencies are outlined in the College Catalog. In this course, through
classroom lecture and discussion, group work, and other learning activities, you will further your mastery of those
core competencies. Additional information is available in the College Catalog: http://valenciacollege.edu/catalog/
1. Value – Make reasoned judgments and responsible commitments.
2. Think – Think clearly, crucially, and creatively; analyze, synthesize, integrate, and evaluate.
3. Communicate – Communicate with different audiences using varied means.
4.
Act – Act purposefully, reflectively, and responsibly.
Nature and Scope of the Course
This is course is focused on providing participants with a hands-on opportunity to study government in Europe, the operation of
international organizations, the practice of international law, the outcomes of regional cooperation (especially economically), and
diplomacy by experiencing them firsthand in Paris and at Strasbourg’s Council of Europe with its European Court of Human
Rights. They’ll also explore Brussels, where they’ll see the European Commission (agency of the European Union) and the
administrative base of operations for NATO. Students will conduct field research that will afford them skills that have wideranging multi-disciplinary application.
Instructional Materials
The following are required readings for this course. Others may be added.
1. International Politics workbook with readings, articles, lectures, links to related videos, and exercises (Required – to be
distributed by instructor)
2. Kwintessential France and Belgium http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/france-countryprofile.html and http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/belgium-country-profile.html (Required)
3. French Phrases http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/language/french-phrases.html (Required)
4. CIA World Fact Book; https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/index.html view information for
France and Belgium (Required)
5. Becoming World Wise: A Guide to Global Learning by Richard Slimbach, Stylus Publishing, ISBN-10: 1579223478
(Required)
6. Art and Culture – article from Conde Nast Traveler publication on Paris and distributed by the instructor
(Recommended)
7. Dining – article from Conde Nast Traveler publication titled “Places & Prices in Paris” and distributed by the instructor
(Recommended)
Grading Scale
The following grading scale is used:
A=90-100; B=80-89; C=70-79; D=60-69; F=below 60
Course Assignments and Grading
PRE-DEPARTURE ORIENTATION SESSIONS:

Be sure that the SAGE office has received your complete application packet. You will not be allowed to participate on
the trip if any materials are missing.
11

Review the following health information for France and Belgium and complete any necessary procedures – 5%
- http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/france.htm and http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/belgium.htm


Attend all meetings (lectures are involved) – 10%
Complete reading assignments and participate in collaborative learning activities – 10% - Actively participate in
all work, learning and discussions (including completing readings prior to discussions) related to learning activities.
Written assignments – 10% - Students are required to complete ten assignments that will be handed out during the
first orientation session.

SUMMER TERM – FRANCE/BELGIUM-BASED

Participate and contribute to all learning activities in debriefings – 30% - Actively participate in all work, learning
and discussions (including completing readings prior to discussions) related to learning activities.

Journals – 15% - Four journal entries are required of all students. The journal will provide a vehicle for reflection and
professional development. All participants will write four journal entries each on questions assigned during the predeparture orientation sessions.
Be a positive student and teammate – 5% - Conduct yourself in a professional and scholarly way that will enable
peers and faculty to perceive you as a positive role model. Follow through on commitments to your classmates and
teammates.
Complete presentation reflecting on what was learned and/or experienced upon return – 15% - Students will
prepare a multimedia presentation on topic related to the experiences.


Description of Assignments
1. Prior to overseas departure, you must visit the following websites and take the necessary steps to get any required
vaccinations and complete VCC forms provided to you by Student Development regarding finances. – 5%
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/france.htm#notices and
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/belgium.htm#notices
2. Attend all meetings – 10% - Five meetings will be scheduled prior to our departure to France and Belgium and one
upon our return. Attendance at these meetings is required, especially since academic lectures will be presented.
Tentatively, they are:
 January 31, 4-6pm, Winter Park, room ________
 February 28, 4-6pm, Winter Park, room ________
 March 28, 4-6pm, Winter Park, room ________
 April 25, 4-6pm, Winter Park, room ________
 June 6, 4-6pm, Winter Park, room ________
 July 29, 3-8pm, Winter Park, room ________
3. Complete reading assignments and participate in collaborative learning activities – 10% - All required reading material
will be distributed to students by Dr. Creamer during the first pre-departure orientation session. Reading assignments
will be initiated by the instructor at that time as well. Each pre-departure orientation session will involve collaborative
learning activities (e.g. simulations or group tasks) with product and participation assessed.
4. Written assignments – 10% - You are required to complete four assignments that I will be handing out in our first
orientation session on February 28th. The due dates for the assignments are as follows:
 Assignment 1 – March 28 by 4pm
 Assignment 2 – April 25 by 4pm
 Assignment 3 – June 6 by 4pm
12

Assignment 4 – June 27 by 4pm
You must complete them and hand in your responses back in the orientation sessions either as paper copies or through email
on these dates. Answers should be at least two paragraphs long, and there is no maximum length. Be sure to provide full
citations for all references, including internet sources. The assignments should be double spaced, 12 point Times New Roman
font, parenthetical citations, and APA format. These assignments have specific due dates, and I will not accept late
submissions. These short assignments will assess your critical analysis of the readings. Each assignment will be worth 2.5% of
your overall grade in the course.
Grading Rubric for Written Assignments
Opening
Clear understanding of the basic concept, preview of conclusions, and evidence
supporting conclusions.
Body
Clear, logical, organized arguments that apply current events or historical examples to a
theoretical framework. The best answers will make their own argument rather than
reorganizing and regurgitating material from the text.
Conclusion
Effective summary of question, answer, and evidence.
20 points
60 points
20 points
France/Belgium-Based:
1. Participate and contribute to all learning activities – 30% - Actively participate in all work, learning, and discussions
related to learning and cultural activities during tours and excursions and afterwards as part of debriefings.
2. Journals - 15% - Four journal entries are required of all students. The journal will provide a vehicle for reflection and
professional development. All participants will write four journal entries each on questions assigned during the predeparture orientation sessions. The due dates for the journal assignments are as follows:
 Journal entry 1 – July 13
 Journal entry 2 – July 16
 Journal entry 3 – July 18
 Journal entry 4 – July 18
The objective is for students to conduct critical analysis in these journal entries of the information they are gathering and
knowledge they are gaining during trips to various administrative sections of prominent international organizations, along with
associated lectures given by Dr. Creamer. Grading will be based on completion of assignment, reflection and interpretation of
ideas presented, integration into your daily or professional life, depth of reflections, self-discovery, application to current or
future area of study or work, and clarity of writing. Entries (responses to assigned questions) should be at least two pages long
in the journal, and there is no maximum length. The following rubric will be used for grading:
Opening
Body
Conclusion
Clear understanding of the basic concept, preview of conclusions, and evidence
supporting conclusions.
Clear, logical, organized arguments that apply current events or historical examples to a
theoretical framework. The best answers will make their own argument rather than
reorganizing and regurgitating material from the text.
Effective summary of question, answer, and evidence.
20 points
60 points
20 points
3. Be a positive student and teammate – 5% - Conduct yourself in a professional and scholarly way that will enable peers
and faculty to perceive you as a positive role model. Follow through on commitments to your classmates and
teammates. The grade for this component will be based primarily on observation by Dr. Creamer.
4. Reflection presentation – 15% - This is to be conducted after our return during the re-entry orientation session on July
29 at 3pm. The goal is to create a presentation on one of the following two options:
13


Synthesize your experience. Identify at least 2 experiences or realizations that you think had significant
impact on you and why. You will explore your thoughts and reactions to your learning. You can explore
observations about the specific sessions, general thoughts about the course topic, reflections of cultural
significance, relationship to readings, personal reflections, application of information and insights into personal
life as well as to the global society, responses to questions provided, and any questions that come to you.
Choose a topic, concept, or theme that we discussed and/or experienced during the study abroad, such as an
international organization, a conflict, or a piece of diplomacy, and discuss the causes of conflict and/or
cooperation in the region, the motivations and strategies of the actors involved, and how this
concept/organization/norm of international law/conflict affected international relations into the future.
Students should use material from the class, including the experiential learning component of the trip and knowledge gained
while abroad, assigned readings and lectures to form this presentation, but students are allowed to use outside material, such
as primary sources, other textbooks, academic articles, etc. as well to help create the content of the presentation. Please cite
material properly however. Be sure to provide full citations for all references, including internet sources. The presentation
should be approximately 15-20 minutes in length. This can be done in any manner the student desires (e.g. PowerPoint
presentation, poster session, simple oration). The following is the grading rubric for the presentation:
Grading Rubric for Presentation
Attribute
Emerging – 1 point
VOICE – Personal,
expressive,
revealing; compels
involvement from
audience.
Presenter seems
uninvolved.
Indifferent. Work is
flat, stiff. All tell no
show. Anyone could
have done it.
THINKING – indepth, divergent
Takes an unreflective
and routine approach
to the subject. Little
evidence of gaining
new understandings.
IDEA & CONTENT –
clearly developed
Central idea is
undeveloped. Strays
from topic. Hard to
follow. Lacks details
and examples.
Order is confusing.
Ideas, details, and
events not shaped
yet. The beginning
and end are vague
and undefined
ORGANIZATION –
work is easy to
understand
Competent – 2
points
Personality, flavor,
style of presenter
shows sometimes.
Pleasant,
acceptable, earnest,
cautious, routine
Takes a successful
but ordinary
approach to the
subject. Remains at
knowledge level
thinking.
Central idea with
support is obvious.
Stays on topic.
Predictable.
Order of presentation
makes sense.
Beginning, middle,
and end are obvious.
Most details are in
the right place.
14
Exemplary – 3 points
Confident, vital, honest
style gives viewer a
powerful sense of
presenter's convictions.
Natural language
amuses, provokes,
delights.
Unique, insightful, or
fresh approach.
Analyzes, synthesizes,
evaluates and applies
new knowledge.
Central idea is focused,
clear, and specific.
Fresh and original
insights. Details keep
viewers attention.
Clear direction moves
audience through the
presentation. Beginning
gains attention. Details
fit and build to main
point. End provokes
thought.
12 possible points
Attendance Policy and No-Show Procedures
There will be several pre-departure meetings and at least one re-entry meeting
(see program itinerary for details). These meetings are required and if you miss
any your travel status and course grade will be jeopardized.
France/Belgium based meetings – You are expected to participate in all learning
and cultural activities conducted during the in-country portion of this program. If
you must miss a class or activity, it will impact your grade.
“The college believes that regular attendance and class participation are significant factors which promote success in college.
Students are expected to attend all classes in which they are enrolled” (Policy 6Hx28:10-22). Classroom attendance and
punctuality is vital to academic success. If you miss a class, you need to contact a classmate to get the notes you missed.
Students who do not maintain regular attendance will be withdrawn by the professor unless other arrangements have been
made with the professor. Missing the equivalent of more than two classes for any reason, other than absences excused in
accordance with Valencia’s policies, is excessive and a basis for withdrawal.
You must attend all meetings, be on time to and attend all program
activities, and submit the assignments throughout the program to
meet the attendance requirement.
Withdrawal Policy
Per Valencia Policy 4-07 (Academic Progress, Course Attendance and Grades, and Withdrawals), a student who withdraws
from class before the established deadline for a particular term will receive a grade of “W”. A student is not permitted to
withdraw 30 days after the program deposit deadline. A faculty member MAY withdraw a student up to the beginning of the
final exam period for violation of the class attendance policy. A student who is withdrawn by faculty for violation of the class
attendance policy will receive a grade of “W”. Any student who withdraws or is withdrawn from a class during a third or
subsequent attempt in the same course will be assigned a grade of “F”. For a complete policy and procedure overview on
Valencia Policy 4-07 please go to: http://valenciacollege.edu/catalog/10-11/pdf/09B_policies.pdf. NOTE: If you are withdrawn
from the course for nonattendance, you will still be responsible for paying the program fee in FULL and you will be
responsible to pay back the College for any scholarship funds received.
Make-Up Policy
This course cannot be made up. Missed assignment deadlines may be made up within 24 hours of missed assignment deadline
only.
Academic Honesty
Each student is required to follow Valencia policy regarding academic honesty. All work submitted by students is expected to
be the result of the student’s individual thoughts, research, and self-expression unless the assignment specifically states “group
project.” Any act of academic dishonesty will be handled in accordance with Valencia policy as set forth in the Student
Handbook and Catalog. At Valencia, we expect the highest standards of academic honesty. Academic dishonesty is prohibited
in accordance with policy 6Hx28: 8-11 upheld by the Vice President of Student Affairs (http://valenciacollege.edu
/generalcounsel/policydetail.cfm?RecordID=193). Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, plagiarism, cheating,
furnishing false information, forgery, alteration or misuse of documents, misconduct during a testing situation, and misuse of
15
identification with intent to defraud or deceive. Students shall take special notice that the assignment of course grades is the
responsibility of the student's individual professor. When the professor has reason to believe that an act of academic dishonesty
has occurred, and before sanctions are imposed, the student shall be given informal notice and an opportunity to be heard by
the professor. Any student determined by the professor to have been guilty of engaging in an act of academic dishonesty shall
be subject to a range of academic penalties as determined by the professor. These penalties may include, but not be limited to,
one or more of the following:
 loss of credit for an assignment, examination, or project;
 reduction in the course grade;
 or a grade of "F" in the course.
At the option of the professor, the appropriate administrator of the campus may be furnished with written notification of the
occurrence and the action taken. If such written notice is given, a copy shall be provided to the student. Students guilty of
engaging in a gross or flagrant act of academic dishonesty or repeated instances of academic dishonesty shall also be subject
to administrative and/or disciplinary penalties that may include warning, probation, suspension, and/or expulsion from the
college.
Internet Research Statement
Because of the variety of sources, ease of publication, lack of central control and proliferation of commercial information on the
free Internet, it is often hard to tell if the information is reliable. Many sites contain research and information of high
quality. However, unlike traditional print publications or library-based electronic resources, there is usually no process of peer
review, nor is there an editor verifying the accuracy of information presented on the Internet. There are an increasing number of
sites containing information that may be incomplete, anonymously written, out-of-date, biased, fraudulent, or whose content may
not be factual. Students should, therefore, use caution in use of the free Internet for their research needs. For academic topics
that are addressed in scholarly literature, use of electronic databases or visiting the library may better meet your
needs. However, each professor makes the final determination of what is or is not accepted as a valid source so review the
syllabus for specific guidelines from your professor.
Students with Disabilities
Students with physical or mental disabilities who may require accommodations are encouraged to contact the Office for
Students with Disabilities (http://valenciacollege.edu/osd/). Students with learning disabilities who may require
accommodations are encouraged to contact this office as well. After disclosing, students are urged to discuss their needs with
individual instructors. This should be done at the beginning of each semester. Instructors in conjunction with appropriate
college officials will provide assistance and/or accommodations only to those students who have completed this process.
College Policies
A full description of all College policies can be found in the College Catalog at: http://valenciacollege.edu/catalog/; Policy
Manual at: http://www.valenciacollege.edu/generalcounsel/; and the Student Handbook at:
http://www.valenciacollege.edu/pdf/studenthandbook.pdf.
Student Code of Conduct
Students are expected to adhere to Valencia’s Student Code of Conduct at all times during a study abroad program.
Remember that you are a representative of Valencia College, as well as a cultural ambassador of the United States, so you
should not engage in any activities abroad that you would not consider engaging in while on campus. The Valencia handbook
can be downloaded at http://valenciacollege.edu/pdf/studenthandbook.pdf please pay particular attention to the “Academic
Policies and Procedures” sections beginning on page 57.
16
Important Dates
Travel takes place in Summer H2 Term 6/17/2013 – 7/29/2013. Once you have paid
your application fee and deposit, you are committed to the program and cannot
withdraw. If you choose not to participate, there will NOT be any refunds of program
fees paid.
College Closed (Credit Classes Do Not Meet): See College calendar for important dates
and final exam schedule at http://www.valenciacollege.edu/calendar.
Important Valencia Website Links

College Calendar: http://valenciacollege.edu/calendar/

College Catalog: http://valenciacollege.edu/catalog/

Valencia Policy and Procedures: http://valenciacollege.edu/generalcounsel/policy/

FERPA: http://valenciacollege.edu/ferpa/

ADA: http://valenciacollege.edu/osd/handbook/sec4.htm

Medical Records: http://valenciacollege.edu/generalcounsel/policy/ValenciaCollegePolicy.cfm?policyID=186
Disclaimer
Changes may be made at the discretion of the instructor.
PART 4: Program Itinerary
The program itinerary listed below contains the weekly schedule of meeting sessions, assignments, and activities. Dates are
subject to change.
DAY /
DATE
Fri
01/31
Fri
02/07
Fri
02/14
PREDEPARTURE PROGRAM ACTIVITIES
Pre-Departure Orientation #1: Winter Park Campus, 4:00-6:00 p.m., Room ______:

Ice-breaker activity.

Collect medical forms, photos, and any other missing documents. Pass out recommended
packing list.

Review short-term study abroad information sheet. Clarify payment and scholarship
questions.

Study abroad program overview: destinations, academic requirements, course syllabus,
transportation, weather, accommodations, etc.

Discuss passport and visa process.

Introduction to international politics and the scientific method lecture
At-Home Assignment #1:

Acade
mic
Time
1, 2,
3, 4
2
4, 5
4
1, 4
4
Becoming World Wise: A Guide to Global Learning: Read Introduction and Ch. 1 and write
your answers to the two discussion questions.
At-Home Assignment #2:

Link to
Outcomes
Pick at least two of the authors mentioned in your reading this week, including Thucydides,
17
Fri
02/21
Fri
E.H. Carr, Machiavelli, Hans Morgenthau, and others and use a discussion of their arguments,
along with other details of the tenets of realism to explain what amorality in international
relations means from a realist theoretical perspective. Be sure to include details of the main
points of realism and from the chosen authors’ arguments. Answers should be at least two
paragraphs long, and there is no maximum length.
At-Home Assignment #3:

1, 4
4
1, 4,
5
2
4, 5
4
1, 2,
4
4
4, 5
4
1, 2,
4, 5
2
2, 4
4
Is liberalism too idealistic? Why or why not? Review the basic tenets of liberalism in this
context and incorporate the arguments of at least two of the authors discussed in your
readings this week, such as Emeric Cruce, Hugo Grotius, Immanuel Kant, Adam Smith,
Woodrow Wilson, and others into your analysis. Answers should be at least two paragraphs
long, and there is no maximum length.
Pre-Departure Orientation #2: Winter Park Campus, 4:00-6:00 p.m., Room ________:
02/28

Health, Safety, and Emergency Preparedness in Study Abroad

Lecture on “Theories of International Relations: Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism, &
Marxism”

Fri
03/07
Fri
03/14
Fri
03/21
Fri
03/28
04/04
Lecture on “Change in the International System; System Polarity; Nations, States, &
Nationalism
 Collaborative/Group Activity
At-Home Assignment #4:

Becoming World Wise: A Guide to Global Learning: Read chapters 2 & 3 and write your
answers to the four discussion questions.
At-Home Assignment #5:

For this assignment, you’ll be playing a game, sort of. Please go to the website
http://www.iterated-prisoners-dilemma.net/ and participate in the “Prisoner’s Dilemma”
simulation game. Please follow the directions carefully and make your choices honestly. After
completing the game, consider the international relations theories we have discussed in class,
which include realism, liberalism, Marxism, and constructivism. Does the prisoner’s dilemma
exercise provide insight at all into which theory you think best explains international relations
in the present day? Is there any connection? In other words, can the results of this game
provide support for or against various theoretical perspectives and what they say drives
foreign policy decisions? Support your answer by providing an example, such as a conflict,
foreign policy decision by a country, etc. Answers should be at least two paragraphs long, and
there is no maximum length.
At-Home Assignment #6:

Becoming World Wise: A Guide to Global Learning: Read chapters 4 & 5 and write your
answers to the four discussion questions.
Pre-Departure Orientation #3: Winter Park Campus, 4:00-6:00 p.m., Room _______:


Health, Safety, and Emergency Preparedness in Study Abroad orientation
Lecture on “Elements of Power; Theorizing about the Causes of War; Weapons of Mass
Destruction”
 Lecture on “French and European Politics”
 Collaborative/Group Activity
At-Home Assignment #7:

Can any war be explained without using all three levels of analysis? What are the advantages
and disadvantages of using more than one level of analysis to explain a war? Please use, in
your answer, discussion of points made in your readings this week. Answers should be at
18
04/11
least two paragraphs long, and there is no maximum length.
At-Home Assignment #8:

4, 5
4
2, 3,
4,
2
4, 5
4
3, 4,
5
4
3, 4,
2
TOTAL
50
Please choose ONE of the following topics and answer the respective questions. Answers
should be at least two paragraphs long, and there is no maximum length. Be sure to provide
full citations for all references, including internet sources.
Topic #1 - What are some of the key characteristics of France or Belgium? Is it a State or a
Nation State? Explain why. How is globalization affecting the status of this country?
Topic #2 – Describes the political culture of France or Belgium. Discuss political attitudes or
public opinion in your country toward an important issue such as the Iraq war, globalization,
the AIDS pandemic, nuclear proliferation or global warming and discuss the type of ways in
which citizens in this country participate (or not) in political decisions involving one or more of
these issues.
Topic #3 – Discuss the representation of women and/or ethnic, religious, or racial minorities in
politics in France or Belgium.
Topic #4 – Discuss the electoral system for the lower house of the legislature and the chief
executive in France or Belgium. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this system?
How does it compare with that of the U.S. in terms of the representation of diverse views,
parties, and interests?
Fri
04/25
05/02
Topic #5 – Identify and describe the institutional structure of France or Belgium. Is it
presidential, parliamentary, semi-presidential or some other hybrid or type?
Pre-Departure Orientation #4: Winter Park Campus, 4:00-6:00 p.m., Room _______:

Lecture on “Terrorism”

Lecture on “International Organizations”

Collaborative/Group Activity – as a group, list priorities for a reform agenda to make the United
Nations a more representative and more effective int’l organization.
At-Home Assignment #9:

05/09
Becoming World Wise: A Guide to Global Learning: Read chapters 6 & 7 and write your
answers to the four discussion questions.
At-Home Assignment #10:

Answer one of the following questions:
 You are an adviser to the emir of an oil-rich Persian Gulf state. Outline to the emir the
multiple ways that his state is tied to the global economy. Suggest how these ties give the
emir power.
 Explain to a French student, a recent voter in the election for the European Parliament,
how the objectives of NAFTA differ from those of the European Union.
For either question, you may want to draw in arguments made in or information from your readings this
week. Answers should be at least two paragraphs long, and there is no maximum length.
Fri
06/06
Pre-Departure Orientation #5: Friday, June 06, 4:00-6:00 p.m., Winter Park, room TBD:

Lecture on “International Law”

Lecture on “Globalization; Regional Economic Cooperation”

Collaborative/Group Activity
19
IN-COUNTRY ACTIVITIES
DAY/
DATE
Fri,
07/11
Sat,
07/12
LOCATION
MORNING ACTIVITIES
In Transit

Depart Orlando.
Paris




Arrive in Paris. Take bus to hotel.
BREAKFAST provided at hotel
Program orientation with faculty
Take a guided tour of Paris.
o Place de la Concorde
o Champs-Élysées
o Arc de Triomphe
o Eiffel Tower
o Les Invalides
LUNCH





Sun,
07/ 13
Paris



BREAKFAST provided at hotel
Walking tour of Paris.
o Latin Quarter
Visit The Louvre
AFTERNOON / EVENING ACTIVITIES
Link to
Outco
mes
Acade
mic
Time
Overnight flight to Paris, France.
N/A
N/A
Debriefing – one hour lecture followed by
a one hour discussion of France’s status
as a nation, state, or nation-state with
prior readings, lectures, and
assignments, along with the current
sights and sounds, providing evidence
Students work on journal entries
o Structured question and
response to a predetermined
assignment that is to be written
into the diary dealing with
France and/or Europe and how
today’s sights and sounds help
provide evidence for the
argument provided in the journal
entry
Return to hotel
DINNER
4, 5
12

Visit Notre Dame Cathedral
LUNCH
Debriefing – 2 hour
debate/discussion of states and
nations with exercises provided to
help cultivate group arguments,
findings, and evidence
Students finalize journal entry on
France’s status of
statehood/nationhood and submit to
Dr. Creamer as their answer to
writing assignment
Return to hotel
DINNER
4, 5
12
LUNCH
Continue tour of and informational
session for UNESCO
Debriefing on sights and sounds and
discussion of information gained
o Around one hour of lecture
followed by about one hour of
discussion and group exercises
Return to hotel
1, 3,
4, 5
12





Mon,
07/14
Paris


BREAKFAST provided at hotel
Visit the UNESCO Headquarters




20



Tues,
07/15
Strasbourg



Wed,
07/16
BREAKFAST provided at hotel
Depart by train for Strasbourg
o Discussion on train of
journal entries.
Thoughts, feelings, and
debate moderated by Dr.
Creamer
LUNCH








Strasbourg  BREAKFAST provided at hotel
 Visit the Council of Europe and
European Headquarters of Human
Rights




21
Students work on journal entries
o Critical analysis of UNESCO as
a subsidiary of the UN. Does it
help demonstrate the merits of
the UN as an international forum
for the resolution of grievances
or conflict and international
organization and
standardization? Or, does it
actually display some of the
potential shortcomings
discussed during the orientation
sessions?
Free time (fitness, rest, homework,
sleep)
DINNER
Arrive at hotel in Strasbourg
Take a guided tour of Strasbourg
Debriefing – 2 hour lecture, along
with collaborative learning exercises
and discussion, about international
organizations, human rights,
diplomacy, and the European Union
specifically
Return to hotel
DINNER
Students work on journal entries
o Structured question and
response to a
predetermined assignment
that is to be written into the
journal concerning the EU,
human rights, and the
effectiveness of
international law
1, 2,
3, 4,
5
12
LUNCH
Continue tour of and informational
session about the Council of Europe
and the European Headquarters of
Human Rights
Return to hotel
DINNER
Debriefing – around a one hour
lecture followed by about one hour of
exercises concerning the sights and
sounds and discussion of
information gained today
Students finalize journal entry about
the European Union, or international
organizations in general, and its
place as a proponent of international
law and promoting resolution of
1, 2,
3, 4,
5
12
conflict and/or cooperation.
Thur,
07/17
Brussels
 BREAKFAST provided at hotel
 Depart by train for Brussels, Belgium
 Students hand in official journal entry #2.
 Discussion on train of journal entries.
Thoughts, feelings, and debate
moderated by Dr. Creamer
 LUNCH





Arrive at hotel in Brussels, Belgium
Take a guided tour of Brussels
o European Union buildings
o Grand-Place
o Atomium
DINNER
Return to hotel
Debriefing – two hour lecture on
regional cooperation, security, and
the relevance and global legitimacy
of international organizations like
NATO and the EU
2, 3,
4, 5
12
Fri,
07/18
Brussels




BREAKFAST provided at hotel
Visit the European Commission
LUNCH
Group meeting and discussion of final
journal entries moderated by Dr.
Creamer.
 Visit NATO
 Debriefing – one hour lecture about the
operations of NATO followed by about an
hour of discussion of information gained
today
 Return to hotel
 “Farewell activity” or evening event to be
determined.
 DINNER
 Students work on two journal entries
concerning, one) international security and
international organizations like NATO, and,
two) what theoretical construct, such as
realism or liberalism, has seemingly been
best validated given observations.
1, 2,
3, 4,
5
16
Sat,
07/19
Brussels


BREAKFAST provided at hotel
Depart Brussels
 Arrive Orlando in the late evening
 LUNCH on plane
N/A
N/A
TOTAL:
DAY/
DATE
Tues
07/29
RE-ENTRY PROGRAM ACTIVITIES
Re-Entry Meeting #1: _______ Campus, 3:00-8:00 p.m., Room ________:


Review SAGE close-out process and collect thank you cards.
Student reflection presentations (15 minutes each).
Link to
Outcomes
Acade
mic
Time
1, 2,
3, 4, 5
3
TOTAL:
3
GRAND TOTAL:
22
88
141
PART 5: Preparing for Study Abroad
Passport
All international travelers need a valid passport. If you do not already have a passport, we strongly urge
you to visit the U.S. Department of State website at http://travel.state.gov/passport/index.html as soon
as possible. You can fill out the application and turn it in at any US Post Office. Please note that the
University of Central Florida has an office that issues passports and does not require an
appointment: https://spot.ucf.edu/passport.html
Make sure that your passport will not expire for at least 6 months beyond your return date.
Otherwise, you will need to renew your passport before departing for the program. Passports can be
expedited for an extra cost.
If you are on a SAGE program that requires the office to purchase your airline ticket, and you do not have a passport
at the time the airline tickets are being purchased, your ticket will be delayed, you may have to pay additional fees,
and you may not have the same flight itinerary as the rest of the group.
BE SURE TO START THE APPLICATION PROCESS
AS SOON AS YOU HAVE BEEN ACCEPTED INTO THE
PROGRAM. DO NOT DELAY!
I lost my passport! What do I do?
Be a savvy traveler and prepare a “passport replacement kit” before you leave, containing the following documentation and
support items. Leave a complete set with a family member or friend:




Two passport photos (US format in inches, NOT French format!)
A clear color copy of the photo and signature page of your passport, indicating passport number, date, and place of issue
Photocopy of your social security card
An additional official photo I.D. (driver’s license, etc.)
Always report the loss of your passport to the US embassy and the police, as well as to the program leader and tour operator.
Go to the passport section of the American Embassy in Paris with your kit and your police declaration of theft, and you can get
another one relatively easily. Be prepared to pay a replacement fee of $100 euros, payable by cash or credit card. Visit
http://www.amb-usa.fr/consul/acs/passports/default.htm for detailed instructions. If you’ve lost all your identity cards at the
same time, bring along a friend (and their passport) who is a US citizen and can vouch for your identity.
Visa
As a citizen of the USA, you will not need a visa to enter France and Belgium. If you are NOT a citizen of the USA, you must
inquire with the French Consulate in the USA regarding visa requirements. Visit http://ambafrance-us.org/spip.php?rubrique102
for more information. You can also verify visa requirements at: http://www.visahq.com/. Please note that not all visas are
approved. You will have to do this at your own expense and risk. If you are asked to provide documentation for some aspect of the
program, please contact the SAGE office. It is IMPERATIVE that you begin this process early on. Note that you must already have a valid
23
passport in order to obtain your visa. If you are on an F or J visa, you must meet with an international advisor to see if there are any travel
restrictions on your visa.
YOU WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR OBTAINING YOUR OWN VISA. VALENCIA WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR
REFUNDING ANY PAYMENTS MADE IF YOU DO NOT GET YOUR PASSPORT AND/OR VISA IN TIME FOR TRAVEL.
International Cell Phone Access
Before traveling overseas, be sure to contact your phone provider to find out about international rates
and phone settings you should know. The following information is for AT&T customers only but is
given as an example on questions to ask your program provider. If you are not fully aware of how your
phone works internationally, you can incur very high charges without intending to. Note that you can
put your phone into “airplane mode” and still access WiFi.
You can purchase international packages for one month for calls, texts, and data for Internet usage. If
you plan on using your phone overseas, be sure to purchase a package because the regular rates are
very expensive. The following is a list of the AT&T prices. Note that they prorate the package based
on the date you request it and where you are in your billing cycle. Be sure to request that billing start
from the beginning of your cycle. Here is an example (please note that rates may change):



International roaming for one month: $5.99 and each call is a discounted rate
International text package of 50: $10.00
International 20MB data: $24.99 (1MB overseas would be $20.00 without the package)
CELLULAR PHONE

ROAMING: Turn your cellular phone OFF before you get on the plane. You can turn the phone on again once you
arrive to your destination.

VOICEMAIL: It is important to leave your phone OFF if you do not want to be charged over $1.00 for every voicemail
that is left for you. If your phone is ON, you will be charged when someone calls and they leave a message.
iPHONE

ROAMING: Turn roaming OFF before you get on the plane (settings – general network) and set the phone to FLIGHT
MODE. When the plane lands, you can set the phone back to normal from flight mode, but leave roaming
OFF. Remember to turn roaming back ON when you return to the United States.

VOICEMAIL: It is important to leave your phone OFF if you do not want to be charged over $1.00 for every voicemail
that is left for you. If your phone is ON, you will be charged when someone calls and they leave a message.

FREE CALLING AND TEXTING APPS: There are several free applications that you can download to send and
receive calls and texts via your iPhone, iTouch, or iPad. You will need the headphones with the integrated
microphone:
o
Viber: For iPhone only. Both users must have the app downloaded and you can make calls to each other
even internationally.
o
Textfree to Voice: For iPhone, iTouch, and iPad. The sender must have the app to send free texts but the
user does not need an app or an iPhone. Both users need the app for calling. You get 10 free minutes and
you can earn more minutes by downloading different apps or you can buy minutes which are extremely
cheap. This application works in the following countries: US, Australia, Canada, China, the Dominican
24
Republic, Ecuador, France, Germany, Guam, Guatemala, India, Netherlands, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines,
Puerto Rico, UK, Venezuela.
Time
Time in France and Belgium is calculated in UTC/GMT hours. The time difference between the east coast of the USA and Paris
is +6 hours (i.e., 3 PM in Orlando is 9 PM in Paris). Time in France is often expressed on a 24-hour cycle rather than a 12-hour
cycle. For example: 6:00 AM is equal to 6 hours; 12:00 PM (noon) is 12 hours; 6:00 PM is equal to 18 hours; 12:00 AM
(midnight) is equal to 0 hours. This website: www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/ -- provides all time zones and running, up-todate clocks for all capital cities worldwide. France, like the rest of the EU, observes Daylight Savings, but clocks may change
on a different day than in the US.
Weather
The climate in Northern France and Belgium is mild. Summer are pleasantly warm with average temperatures in the mid 70z°F,
although the past few summers have seen some intense heat waves. Note that many older buildings do not have air
conditioning!
Personal Budget
Make sure to budget enough money for food, personal items, social/sightseeing activities, souvenirs, local transportation, etc.
Based on student feedback, we suggest that you budget $500. Your actual expenses will vary depending on your personal
needs, interests and habits.
Bills & Denominations
France and Belgium are members of the EU so the unit of currency is the Euro. To learn more about the Euro, visit:
www.euro.ecb.int/en.html.
Bills come in denominations of 5, 10, 20 50, 100, 200 and 500 euro. Coins come in denominations of 2 euro, 1 euro, 50 cents,
20 cents, 10 cents, 5 cents, 2 cents and 1 cent.
Changing Money
If you bring U.S. dollars, you will have to convert them to euros. You can get the latest exchange rate at www.xe.com or
www.oanda.com. As of this writing (April 2014), the exchange rate is roughly €1 Euro = $1.32 USD. Currency can be
exchanged at banks and designated exchange points. Banks and exchange services charge a fee for their service. Fees vary
depending on where you exchange your money. Some places will charge a flat fee and others will take a percentage of the
money you are exchanging. Because of this, you should try to avoid changing a lot of money, and use ATMs instead. There is
an exchange booth at the Florida Mall, which usually has good rates: http://www.orlandocurrencyexchange.com/.
Cash
25
We recommend that you bring $100 or its equivalent (e.g., euros), in cash to start with. There is a currency exchange desk at
the Florida Mall that has reasonable rates: 407-854-0860. You will need cash for snacks, souvenirs, incidentals, and tip money.
Remembering that if your cash is stolen or lost there is no way of recouping your loss, you should bring this cash in your money
belt. **Please keep all important materials (i.e., cash, airline tickets, visa, passport) in a money belt that can be worn under your
clothing.
Important: We have had several students bring a large sum of money
and get it stolen or lose it. Do NOT put all of your cash in one place!
Also, be prepared to have someone at home wire you money should
the situation arise.
ATM & Debit Cards
Withdrawing money from ATMs is the best way to get additional cash when you are overseas, since you get the bank’s
exchange rate. ATMs are very common throughout France and Belgium. VISA or MasterCard debit cards are usually accepted.
ATMs and banks in may charge a small fee for each withdrawal just like in the US. You may also be charged an “international
transaction fee” from your home bank. Cash is dispensed in euros using the official exchange rate of the day. Memorize your
pin code in numbers and letters as keypads sometimes are arranged differently at banks overseas.
Credit Cards
Major credit cards are accepted throughout France in shops, hotels, restaurants, etc. VISA and MasterCard credit cards are the
most commonly accepted credit cards in France. Diners Club and American Express are not as prevalent. Credit card
purchases and ATM withdrawals are automatically converted to euros using the official exchange rate for the day of your
transaction. In most cases, you don’t have to pay any exchange fees. However, your home bank may charge you an
“international transaction fee” for each purchase and withdrawal. You should check with your credit card and ATM card
companies regarding terms of use.
Important: Make sure to notify your bank, checking account holder,
and credit card company that you are traveling and that there will be
international activity on your account. Otherwise, the bank will
freeze your accounts for suspected fraud. A secure email to your
bank two weeks before you leave should take care of it.
Traveler’s Checks
Traveler’s checks used to be the safest way of transporting money, but they are quickly being outmoded by the convenience of
ATMs. If you bring traveler’s checks, try to get them in euros and be sure to keep a copy of the check numbers in a separate
place. Traveler’s checks can get lost easily, they are difficult to cash, and there is usually a large exchange fee.
Flight Information
Below is EXAMPLE information about your flights between the USA and Europe. The KEI Onsite Director, Daniele Katz, will
greet the group at the airport, arrange transportation to the hotel in Paris, and stay with the group during the program. YOU
WILL RECEIVE AN UPDATE FLIGHT ITINERARY WHEN THAT IT PURCHASED WHICH USUALLY OCCURS SEVERAL
MONTHS PRIOR TO THE DEPARTURE DATE.
26
27
U.S. TO OVERSEAS FLIGHT INFORMATION 2014
Date:
11-12 July
2014
City to
City:
Orlando, FL to
Frankfurt,
Germany
Airline:
Lufthansa
Flight #:
#LH465
Depart:
Arrive:
8:25 PM
11:40 AM
Date:
12 July
2014
City to
City:
Frankfurt,
Germany to
Paris, France
Airline:
Lufthansa
Flight #:
#LH1036
Depart:
Arrive:
1:35 PM
2:45 PM
SAMPLE OVERSEAS TO U.S. FLIGHT INFORMATION 2013
Date:
19 July
2014
City to
City:
Brussels,
Belgium to
Frankfurt,
Germany
Airline:
Lufthansa
Flight #:
#LH1025
Depart:
Arrive:
06:45 AM
07:50 AM
Date:
19 July
2014
City to
City:
Frankfurt,
Germany to
Orlando, FL
Airline:
Lufthansa
Flight #:
#LH464
Depart:
Arrive:
2:00 PM
6:05 PM
Accommodations
KEI will reserve the hotels and they reserve the right to change accommodations as needed. If it becomes necessary to change
your accommodations due to unforeseen circumstances, we will inform you as soon as possible. Students are assigned to
bedrooms based on gender. Please note that hotel information is subject to change. You will receive confirmation of the
hotel a couple of months prior to departure.
Transportation
Besides airport transfers, we will be using public transportation in Paris, Strasbourg,
and Brussels. All three cities have excellent public transportation systems:
 Métro
The Paris subway system is one of the oldest and most efficient in the
world. No spot in intramuros (downtown) Paris is more than five minutes
away from a subway entrance. The Brussels metro is also well developed
and operates between the hours of 5 AM and midnight. Strasbourg does not
have a metro system.
 Buses & Trams
Buses are a great way to stay above ground and see the cities as you travel. Occasionally bus drivers will even
narrate the route, telling you about the sights along the way! In Strasbourg and Brussels you will also find trams (also
called trolleys), which are electric busses that run on the roads or special rails. The bus/tram system uses the same
tickets as the metro.
 Bikes
All three cities offer bicycle rentals, which are often located near major bus and metro stops. This is an inexpensive
and environmentally friendly way to move about the cities.
 Taxi
Taxis can be hailed, hired at taxi ranks or booked by telephone. You can always find a taxi at any of the train stations.
Hotel clerks can also call a taxi as needed.
28
 Train
Europe has a well-developed train system connecting cities. Transfer between cities will be by train. Your program
leader will have a list of all the train departure and arrival times for all transfers for the program.
Telephone in Europe
Public telephones in France and Belgium are operated primarily by telephone cards, which can be bought from newsagents.
The cheapest way to make international telephone calls is by using an International Phone Card which can also be purchased in
most newsagents.
Note that placing a direct international call, especially form your hotel room, is very expensive. We recommend using the
International Phone Card or an online service such as Skype.
 To place a call to Paris from the USA dial 011 (outside line) + 33 (country code for France) + 1 (city code for Paris) + the
telephone number you are calling.
 To place a call to Strasbourg from the USA dial 011 (outside line) + 33 (country code for France) + 3 (city code for
Strasbourg) + the telephone number you are calling.
 To place a call to Brussels from the USA dial 011 (outside line) + 32 (country code for Belgium) + 2 (city code for Brussels)
+ the telephone number you are calling.
 To make a call from Europe to the USA, dial 00 + 1 (country code for USA) + city/area code + telephone number. For
example, to call the KEI office from Paris, dial: 00-1-212-931-9953.
 To call a local number within Paris/Strasbourg/Brussels, just dial the ten-digit telephone number without the prefixes.
Internet Access
WiFi Internet access is available at most hotels. Note that some hotels charge a fee for in-room Internet, but often offer free
Internet in the lobby. There are also many Internet cafés in Europe. You can use http://cybercaptive.com/ to find out where the
nearest cybercafé is to your location, or use a Free WiFi Finder app on your iPad or iPhone.
Electrical Needs
Electricity throughout France and Belgium is 220 v/50 cycles, and plugs are flat with two round pins and a hole for a third
grounding pin. An adapter converts to the right plug size. A converter changes the voltage, and is used for small appliances
such as alarm clocks, hair dryers, straighteners or razors. Converters are not meant to be used continuously. A transformer is
heavier and more expensive, and is needed to convert voltage for electronics (such as camera chargers—except for dualvoltage equipment like newer laptops which need only an adapter). Don’t send your other appliances to appliance heaven by
plugging them in without the proper add-ons
29
Meals
All breakfasts and one welcome dinner is included in the program fee. Breakfast is usually served at the hotels. Students must
budget funds for additional meals. We suggest budgeting €7 to €15 per meal. There are numerous cafes and restaurants in
Paris, Strasbourg and Brussels. Our Onsite Director will recommend places that are good and will not break the bank.
Tipping
In general, tipping in restaurants is not expected. A 10-15% service charge is automatically added to the bill. Additional tipping
for exceptional service is your choice, usually the spare change left over when you pay your bill. Taxi drivers are generally
tipped around 10% (at the very least, round up the fare).
Smoking
People in France and Belgium tend to smoke more than in the USA. Although France and Belgium outlawed smoking in all
enclosed workplaces, you will still find many people who smoke.
What to Bring
With the Student
-
spending money
credit/debit cards
wallet/ID
passport
flight itinerary
e-ticket confirmation
list of important phone
numbers
-
In Carry-On Bag
In Suitcase
photocopy of passport
all valuable items
light sweater or jacket
camera and film (extra camera batteries or
battery charger)
personal journal
one change of clothing
travel-sized toiletries
any medication
travel documents
glasses and sunglasses
reading materials/electronics for flights
pre-packaged food items
- Light, adjustable layers clothing for
professional, business casual and casual
(Students should plan on wearing some of
their outfits more than once. The hotels
usually have laundry/dry cleaning service
available.)
- 1-2 light sweater(s) or fleece jacket
- pajamas
- travel alarm clock
- electrical adapters / voltage converters
- rain jacket or umbrella
- first aid kit
- small packets of laundry detergent
- suntan lotion and hat
What NOT to Bring
-
fresh food items or nuts (check Customs regulations)
too many pairs of shoes (wear the heaviest shoes on the airplane so they don’t count towards their luggage weight)
heels are not recommended for women
any type of knife
CARRY-ON BAG
Not to exceed 11 pounds (approximately 20 Kgs) in weight and not to exceed 45 inches (155 cm.)
in total dimensions (length plus width plus height).
ONE BAG Not to exceed 44 pounds (approximately 20 kgs) in weight and not to exceed 62 inches
(155 cm.) in total dimensions.
CHECKED LUGGAGE
This is the maximum allowed so as to accommodate all luggage on internal transfers & therefore is
our limit, even though some airlines allow more on International flight segments. Scholars will be
responsible for paying excess baggage charges if applicable. Scholars are responsible for carrying
their own luggage. Restrictions on carry-on luggage are subject to change. Please check the U.S.
Transportation Security Administration’s website at www.tsa.gov.
30
Packing List for Study Abroad
The following is a checklist to help you pack. Please confirm with your program leader the appropriate items to take. This is a
comprehensive list for all program types.
Before You Go
____ Verify your international calling access on your personal cell phone with your provider.
____ Ensure your family members have all your transportation, accommodation, and contact information
____ Verify if you will have access to the Internet.
____ Bring a gift for your host family (if applicable).
____ Remember no liquids over 100 ml on the airplane and those must be in a zip lock bag.
____ Remember to wear socks to the airport because you will have to take off your shoes through security.
____ Check to find out the fee for checked baggage so you can plan accordingly. Fees are high these days!
____ Keep all of your important documents, some toiletries, and a change of clothes in your carry-on bag.
____ Inquire about any dress restrictions for women in the country, especially Muslim countries (remember
airport layovers too).
Important Travel Items
____ Airline tickets, hotel confirmations, itineraries, etc. (have an extra copy of these documents)
____ Insurance card and a copy
____ Valid passport and visa (make two photocopies of your passport; keep your passport in a secure location)
____ Second photo ID (driver's license, birth certificate copy) and an extra copy
____ Spending money (cash - have small bills for tips, traveler's checks, credit cards)
____ Bilingual dictionary
____ Travel guidebook for your destination
____ Orientation and course materials
____ Journal/notepad and pens
____ Reading materials, playing cards, travel board games for the airplane
____ iPod, MP3 player or other electronic devices for diversion
____ Camera/video camera, extra memory card, and charger or disposable camera
____ Backpack and fanny pack
____ Purse or wallet
____ Change holder
____ Small calculator to do currency conversions
____ Cell phone and charger
____ Alarm clock with batteries
____ Refillable water bottle
____ Electricity converter and adapters
Clothing
____ Hat (for sun protection)
____ Sunglasses
____ Appropriate outer wear:
o FALL/WINTER TRAVEL: coat, gloves, boots, hat, scarf
o SPRING/SUMMER TRAVEL: light jacket or sweat shirt
____ Appropriate clothing for the destination for each day of the trip (no military apparel!):
o FALL/WINTER TRAVEL: long johns, long pants, jeans, sweaters, turtlenecks (dress in layers)
31
o SPRING/SUMMER TRAVEL: jeans, shorts, dresses, skirts, tank tops, Polos, T-shirts
____ Sneakers, walking shoes, flip flops or sandals
____ Underwear (bring extra), undershirts, socks (bring extra)
____ Belt
____ Pajamas, robe, slippers
____ Workout clothes
____ Poncho/raincoat/small umbrella
____ Evening wear and shoes for any formal events
Toiletries and Medication
____ Toiletries bag (to carry items to and from the bathroom)
____ Toothpaste and toothbrush
____ Deodorant
____ Shaving items (cream, razors)
____ Feminine hygiene products
____ Skin moisturizer
____ Sunscreen
____ Make-up
____ Hair care products (shampoo, conditioner, gel, hair spray)
____ Hair care accessories (hair dryer, flat iron, curling iron, hair clips, Scrunchies)
____ Bath towel and wash cloth (light weight)
____ Body soap
____ Baby wipes (antiseptic)
____ Hand sanitizer
____ Tissues (small size to carry with you; not all bathrooms abroad have toilet paper)
____ Personal medications (pain reliever, Imodium/Pepto Bismol, Benedryl, Chapstick)
____ Prescriptions, medications, and asthma inhalers
____ Eyeglasses and/or contacts and solution
____ Nail clippers, tweezers
____ Bug repellant (Cutter's stick is least messy)
____ Contraceptives
Miscellaneous
____ Laptop and charger
____ family photos
____ Bathing suit and beach towel
____ Laundry bag for dirty clothes
____ Bed linens
____ Personal first aid items (band aids, Neosporin, anti-itch cream)
____ Strong flashlight and extra batteries
____ Mini battery-operated fan
____ Canteen or bottles for water/cup with lid
____ Earplugs
____ Sleeping bag
____ Clothes hangers
32
Do Not Take





Fanny packs or purses that do not zip closed
Expensive or expensive-looking jewelry
Excess cash
Credit/debit cards that you do not intend to use
Anything irreplaceable
REMEMBER NOT TO
PUT ALL MY CASH IN
ONE PLACE AND TO
KEEP IT IN SECURE
LOCATIONS!!!!
33
PART 6: Cities, Culture, People, and Language
Paris, France
Paris was founded in the third century BC by the Parisii. It was conquered by
the Romans in 52 AD and rebaptized Lutece until its original name was
officially used again in the year 360 AD. After the decline of the Roman
Empire and about seven centuries of strife in Europe, it started developing the
shape we see today.
Construction of Notre-Dame Cathedral was begun in 1163. The Les Halles
outdoor market was developed at about the same time, and the Sorbonne was
founded about a century later. A lot of the monuments one sees now in Paris
date from the 16th and 17th centuries: the Louvre, City Hall, the Hospitals La Saltpetriere and the Invalides, the College de
France, the Place Royale, the Place Dauphine.
The current architecture and planning, especially in the west and the center, is very much the result of ruthless city planning in
the mid-19th century after the French Revolution and uprisings in the first half of the century. The authorities decided then to
create the boulevards network, primarily to facilitate the movement of troops in the city.
Living in Paris is surprisingly easy. One is rarely more than a stone’s throw from a shopping district and all the international
students have remarked how comfortable and safe one feels in Paris. The city also benefits from an extremely efficient public
transport system, which includes the famed metro (subway), buses, Regional Express Trains (RER), night buses and even
cable cars or trams. City dwellers can easily do without a car.
Strasburg, France
Strasbourg is the capital of the Alsace region in northeastern France bordering with Germany. The city is fused into the FrancoGerman culture, and has been a bridge of unity between France and Germany for centuries, especially because of its university
and the co-existence of Catholic and Protestant cultures. Strasbourg is the seat of several European institutions, including the
European Court of Human Rights and European Parliament. The historic city center, the Grande Ile ("Grand Island"), was
classified a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1988.
French People & Culture
Many travelers to France leave with the impression that the French are rude and inconsiderate. This is not necessarily true,
although sometimes you have to remember that people in every
culture can have an “off” day!
Usually, it is the visitor that does not understand the value system in
France. The first and most important thing to understand is that you
always have to establish a relationship. You cannot expect routine
transactions to happen smoothly unless you first greet the
salesperson with Bonjour, Madame/Monsieur. For more detailed
requests and special favors, you will have to explain why you need
(not deserve!) special treatment. An apology for not speaking French
fluently also works wonders. An apology for using up the person’s
time (even if it is their job to help you) just may tip the balance in your
favor as well.
34
The French love to argue, and often do so loudly. Foreigners who may feel verbally “attacked” should remember that
arguments are a form of entertainment rather than persuasion. Oftentimes, your interlocutors don’t want to convince you one
way or another; they just want to air their opinions and have a lively debate.
The official language of France is French, although many people speak a second language. Since there are many immigrants
from Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria in northern Africa (collectively called Maghreb), Arabic is commonly spoken, especially in
certain parts of Paris and Brussels. See the “Words and Phrases” secion of this guide for some common expressions in French.
Brussels, Belgium
The Kingdom of Belgium is Europe in a nutshell: multicultural and multilingual. Despite its relatively small size (about the size of
Maryland), the country is subdivided into distinct cultural traditions. To the north is Flanders, a Dutch-speaking region with its
great art cities of Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent. To the south in Wallonia, a French-speaking region with rolling hills of the
Ardennes, numerous castles, and the cities of Liege, Namur, and Tournai.
To the east is a tiny German-speaking region.
The capital city of Brussels is one of the world’s great cosmopolitan cities.
Although the official language of Brussels is French, all native Bruxillians
speak both French and Dutch. Many people also speak English.
Belgium is a highly developed and densely populated (10 million
inhabitants) country at the crossroads of Western Europe. It has one of the
highest qualities of life in the world, as testified by its excellent food,
housing, health care, education, and infrastructure, its world records for high
productivity and low poverty, and the appreciation of foreigners. Belgium is
one of the founding members of the European Community, and its capital, Brussels, is also the capital of the European Union.
Approximately one third of the city’s population consists of international diplomats and business people who made Brussels their
home. For more information about Belgium and Brussels, visit one of the many resource websites, such as:
www.visitbelgium.com.
Belgian People & Culture
The people of Belgium are primarily of two cultural groups: the Flemish
and the Walloons. The most distinguishing characteristic of these two
groups is language. The Flemish speak Flemish (almost identical to Dutch,
with only regional variations), and the Walloons speak French.
Almost 10 percent of all Belgians live in Brussels, which is also home to
vast numbers of foreign guest workers. About 80 percent of the Belgian
population is Roman Catholic; other religions practiced within the country
include Islam, a number of Protestant denominations, and Judaism.
In general the Belgian people are very warm and friendly as well as open
minded. Belgians tend to dress more formally when at work but are very casual otherwise.
Check out past study abroad programs on SAGE Flickr:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/valencia_sage/sets/
35
What Is Culture Shock?
When you’re abroad, the rules change. You will no doubt be
affected by the language barrier. You will also be subjected to
differences in manners, beliefs, customs, laws, art, religion, values,
concepts of self, family organization, social organization,
government, behavior, and other aspects of culture and society.
Experiencing new cultures can be exciting, but it can also be
overwhelming causing anxiety and stress—in other words, culture
shock.
Everyone experiences culture shock to a different degree. If you
begin to feel moody, depressed, angry, or anxious, keep in mind
that these feelings are a normal reaction to being immersed in a
different culture. Realizing that other students are probably
experiencing the same thing will help you avoid discouragement.
While these feelings can become daunting at times, the majority of students come away from their experience abroad stronger
and better adapted to handle future challenges.
Culture shock has its ups and downs, good days and bad. When things are going well, a student may feel comfortable, adjusted
and relaxed. When negative or stressful situations occur, a student often lapses into feeling depressed, angry or frustrated.
Even situations that at home will cause no or little stress can result in a high level of anxiety abroad because you will be outside
of your comfort zone. The rollercoaster of feelings is the natural progression of working through culture shock. Each student will
experience these ups and downs with different intensity and for different lengths of time. The process is necessary in order to
make the transition from one culture to another; it helps a student adjust to the new social environment.
Here are the stages of culture shock:

Honeymoon Stage: You feel excited, euphoric, and optimistic about this new opportunity.

Negotiation Stage: At about three months, differences between the old and new culture become apparent. You may
feel overwhelmed by the new environment, unhappy, anxious, confused, or homesick.

Adjustment Stage: At 6-12 months, you may finally gain an understanding of the new culture, feel more comfortable,
and things become “normal” to you.

Mastery Stage: You can fully participate in the host culture.
When you are overseas, you may encounter some of the following:

Language Challenges: everyday interactions may become consuming, stressful, and frustrating

Societal Challenges: difficulties due to lack of familiarity with the systems (legal, financial, business, medical,
transportation); difficulties with finances and making ends meet; obvious or subtle discrimination

Socio-Cultural Challenges: missing friends and family connections; not being able to connect with natives

Emotional Challenges: loneliness, anxiety, allergies, aches/pains, anger, disappointment, homesickness
All these feelings are NORMAL! Be sure to keep an eye out for eating disorders, disruptive behavior among students,
emotional breakdowns, etc.
Novelist Thomas Wolfe once put it, “You can’t go home again.”
36
Relieving Culture Shock
There is no cure for culture shock, but there are some steps you can take to reduce its severity.
Before leaving home…

Become familiar with the new culture, including social issues, politics, customs, geography, and history. The Internet,
guidebooks, people from the host country and program alumni can be a valuable source of information. There are a
number of websites dedicated to translating slang and phrasing. Watching recently released movies from the host
country can also help you learn the culture, even if you cannot understand the words.

Take advantage of our predeparture materials. We put a great deal of time, research, and energy into preparing these
documents. Make sure to supplement the information in our guides with the information you get from other sources.
The more information and opinions you have, the better prepared you will be for dealing with culture shock.

Communicate with students who studied abroad in the host country. These students can be program alumni as well as
students on your campus that studied in the host country through a different program. Don’t be shy. Alumni can offer
firsthand advice on subjects that may be less accessible to study abroad coordinators. For example, nightlife, the
cheapest places to eat, etc.
Once you are in the host country…

Keep in regular contact with your family and friends. It will provide some level of consistency and comfort. Not only will
it help you deal with what’s going on abroad, it will also help you deal with re-entry shock when you return home.

Make friends quickly, and not just with Americans. Locals can help explain cultural practices and customs, help you
with the language, and introduce you to things that tourists never experience. You should also pay attention to your
viewpoints. Your new friends will formulate views of your country and culture based on their interaction with you. In
many ways, study abroad students are global ambassadors and foster cross-cultural understanding and a more
peaceful world. For this reason you should be responsible and proud of your role in the global community.

Keep a journal while you’re abroad. Writing in a journal is a great way to reflect on your experiences and find
differences and similarities in culture.
37
Questions & Phrases in French
ENGLISH
FRENCH
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION
Hello!
Good morning
Good afternoon
Good evening
Good-bye
What is your name?
My name is…
Where are you from?
I’m from Orlando, Florida.
Please
Thank you
Your welcome
Do you speak English?
I’m sorry, I don’t speak French.
Excuse me.
Pardon me.
Yes, please.
No, thank you.
Where is …?
the airport
the American Consulate
the American Embassy
the ATM
the bank
the bus station
the emergency room
a free WiFi location
a grocery store
a hospital
the _____ hotel
the marketplace
the metro (subway)
a pharmacy
the police station
a post office
a restaurant
the restroom
a store
___ street
the taxi stand
the telephone
the train station
the university
Help!
I have an emergency.
I lost my luggage.
There is a fire!
I need…
an ambulance
38
ENGLISH
a doctor / a nurse
a translator
some medicine
How much does it cost?
What is the exchange rate?
I don’t have any money.
What would you like to order?
I would like.…, please.
a water
a soda
a coffee
a tea
FRENCH
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION
39
Diversity & Discrimination
The following is adapted from the Michigan State University literature on race and identity abroad.
Minority students are sometimes better prepared for culture shock because of their own experiences in the United States, but
discrimination in other countries can be even more overt than in the United States. No two students studying abroad ever have
quite the same experience, even in the same program and country. This same variety is true for those from U.S. minority ethnic
or racial backgrounds. Reports from past participants vary from those who felt exhilarated by being free of the American context
of race relations, to those who experienced different degrees of 'innocent' curiosity about their ethnicity, to those who felt they
met both familiar and new types of ostracism and prejudice and had to learn new coping strategies. Very few minority students
conclude that the racial or ethnic problems which can be encountered in other countries represent sufficient reasons for not
going. On the other hand, these students advise knowing what you are getting into and preparing yourself for it.
What you can do for yourself…
Voices of Change (VOC) is an organization dedicated to combating racism and discrimination for all students studying abroad.
The following is adapted from an article written by their founder. Read more about them at: www.globaled.us/safeti/
v1n2_sanders.html. Voices of Change (VOC) believes that all American students need to be informed about discrimination
outside of the United States but should not be discouraged about the prospect of studying abroad.
We encourage students to not allow an individual's ignorance to hinder their own progression and narrow their outlook while
traveling in another country. Studying abroad is a special opportunity to broaden one's horizons, gain new insight, and develop
a unique and more open-minded perspective of the world. To this end, we have also developed specific coping mechanisms
students can adopt should they be faced with an incident of racism/discrimination. We suggest students:

Maintain pride and self-confidence. Every student should maintain a strong sense of self. Being different is a powerful
strength!

Assert and address people tactfully. When faced with a negative and/or prejudice comment or action, attempt to
address the individual in a calm and civil manner. Explain that you did not understand what they meant or did not
appreciate their statement or behavior. We do warn students not to exercise this step if they feel the situation is
potentially threatening or dangerous! Also, language ability will naturally determine how well one can express that
he/she disapproves of what has been said and/or behavior that has been displayed.

Talk to your director, professors, counselors, etc. These individuals are available to help assist students and make
studying abroad an academically and personally enriching experience. Students who have experienced discrimination
should especially share their concerns with these individuals who can further assist them in the process of getting help.

Use your network of friends (new and old). Students can also discuss their difficulties with friends they have become
close with on their programs or contact friends at home. Having a support network is essential!

Talk with your host families or friends. The host family is an especially significant part of the student's overall cultural
experience abroad and is usually quite eager to assist students. They may also act as another source of support that
can be helpful, particularly if the student begins to feel negative about the society he or she is living in.
40
Resources for Multicultural Students
Barker, J.M., Exum, H.A., et al. (1998). Impact of diasporic travel on the ethnic identity development of African American college
students. College Student Journal, 32 (3), 463.
Bond, D.G. (1988). Values clarification and international education: The Yonsei experience, Paper presented at the 29th
Annual Convention of the International Studies Association, St. Louis, MO. (ERIC Document Reproduction Service No.
ED 305 273).
Carew, J.G. (1993, January 6). Minority students abroad: An inspiring experience. The Chronicle of Higher Education, 39 (18),
B3.
Day-Vines, N.L. (1998, September). Study abroad: An investigation of the impact of African diasporic travel on the
psychosocial development of African American college sojourners. (Doctoral dissertation, North Carolina State
University, 1998). Dissertation Abstracts International, 59 (3), 734A
“The World is in Your Hands” Student Guide: http://www.ucis.pitt.edu/aie/resources/TWIIYH.pdf
“Diversity in Study Abroad”: http://www.brown.edu/Administration/OIP/pdf_docs/diversity_st_abroad01.pdf
“Students of Color and Study Abroad”: http://www.umabroad.umn.edu/ci/index.html
PART 7: Healthcare Abroad
Stay Healthy!
Remember that air travel will expose you to LOTS of new germs! Read this
article from the New York Times about how NOT to get sick when traveling:
http://travel.nytimes.com/2011/03/06/travel/06prac-germs.html?_r=0. Here
are some additional tips to help keep you healthy:




Do not eat any meat from street vendors.
Drink bottled watered.
Take vitamins.
Use hand sanitizer.
Dietary Concerns
Water: Bottled water may be purchased at most restaurants and all convenience stores.
Food: The quality of food is as one would find in other western countries. Central Europe is heavy on meats and starches.
Restrictions: Vegetarian options are fine, but limiting. Vegan meals cannot be provided. Kosher is manageable, though
vegetarian is the default option.
YOU WILL NEED TO CONTACT THE AIRLINES
DIRECTLY IF YOU NEED A SPECIAL MEAL ON THE
FLIGHT/S.
41
Immunizations
Check with a physician/local public health department to see what immunizations are recommended. It is recommended that
you get a physical exam before departure if you have any health concerns.
Research/Contact: World Health Organization - www.who.int
Research/Contact: Center for Disease Control and Prevention - www.cdc.gov
Below is information from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) website detailing what vaccines and shots you will need to
protect yourself from diseases in France and Belgium. We recommend that you read the full text on the CDC’s website, located
here: www.cdc.gov/travel/westeurp.htm.
For general information: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/content/study-abroad.aspx
A map to select specific country: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list.aspx
France Specific: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/france.aspx
France and Belgium are considered low-risk areas for diseases (as is most of Western Europe); however you should be current
on the following immunizations.
 Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG).
 Hepatitis B, if you might be exposed to blood (for example, health-care workers), have sexual contact with the local
population, stay longer than 6 months, or be exposed through medical treatment.
 As needed, booster doses for tetanus-diphtheria, measles, and a one-time dose of polio vaccine for adults.
 **See your doctor at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to allow time for shots to take effect.**
Prescriptions
Contact the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) (www.tsa.gov) for restrictions. You
should:
 carry extra medication than what is needed for the trip
 carry all medications in the original containers (prescriptions, over-the-counter and
vitamins)
 pack all prescription medication in your carry-on luggage
 bring a doctor’s note if they have narcotics, syringes, inhalers, nebulizers or allergy
medication
 know the generic names of all medications
 bring an extra copy of a doctor’s prescription in case you need to refill a medication on
the trip or as back up if you lose your medication
Insurance Coverage
All short-term study abroad program participants are
required to carry medical and trip insurance which the
SAGE office purchases or the program provider offers
as part of their fee. The College currently uses CMI
Insurance Worldwide: http://www.cmi-insurance.com/.
Students on short-term study abroad programs will have
this cost built into their program fee. It is your
responsibility to review and know your coverage, which
Trip Cancellation Insurance protects
students financially if they have to
cancel or interrupt their study abroad
program for a major medical reason
with proof from a doctor. Approval is
done through CMI and cannot be
guaranteed by the SAGE office.
42
includes: Trip Interruption, Trip Cancellation, Trip Cancellation Terrorism , Trip Delay, Lost Baggage, Home Country Medical,
Security Evacuation, Personal Liability. There is a $50 deductible on the insurance. Coverage does NOT include lost cash or
items left on a bus, plane, or in a hotel room. Be sure to protect your cash and personal belongings. We have had multiple
situations with students losing all of their cash.
You will be provided with a brochure prior to your program departure date. If you feel that you need additional coverage, you
can contact another insurance provider. It is recommended that you use the Property Document Form located on the SAGE
website (How to apply page) in the event that you need to make a claim.
Medical Treatment
Injuries and illness can occur while you are abroad, and it’s important to be prepared. You should become familiar with your
medical and travel insurance BEFORE leaving the USA. If you become ill or injured while abroad, make sure to inform the KEI
Onsite Director and your professor. Our Director will take you to a local hospital for treatment. Should your illness or injury be
serious, we will work with your family and insurance company to make necessary arrangements for your evacuation and/or
special services.
ALWAYS inform your professor if you are not feeling well. Pharmacies are generally open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday to
Saturday. If you need a pharmacist outside of these hours, there will be a note posted on the door at the local pharmacy telling
you where the pharmacie de garde is located. (Each pharmacy in an area takes turn keeping all-night and Sunday hours. The
pharmacie de garde is the nearest pharmacy that is currently open.) ALWAYS inform the Onsite Director and your professor.
Counseling Services
Valencia College wants to ensure that all students have an enriching and rewarding study abroad experience. However, should
a student have difficulty adjusting to the experience while overseas or upon returning home, he or she can contact Bay Care
Behavioral Health Student Assistance Program free of charge at 1-800-878-5470 24-hours a day. Free face-to-face counseling
is also available.
PART 8: Safety & Emergency Preparedness
Your Safety
Your well-being and safety is our utmost concern. While no study abroad program can offer an absolute guarantee that students
will be completely safe at all times, there are many steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of becoming injured or a victim of
crime abroad. We encourage all students and their parents to read and understand the health and safety information available
on the KEI website: http://www.KEIabroad.org/parents/safety.php. Also, it is VERY important to understand the risks of study
abroad before you go. Take a few minutes to watch this very important safety video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v
=XgpYhz0awzo
Valencia’s Student Code of Conduct
All students must adhere to Valencia’s Student Code of Conduct while overseas: http://valenciacollege.edu/generalcounsel
/policy/default.cfm?policyID=180&volumeID_1=8&navst=0.
Please remember that you are considered a cultural ambassador of
the United States, and how you behave MATTERS! If you are found
guilty of breaking the Student Code of Conduct during the study
abroad program, there will be disciplinary action and you risk losing
your scholarship.
43
Department of State Travel Warning
In the event that a travel warning is issued by the Department of State (http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html)
prior to travel, College administration will need to review the warning to determine if the program can run or should be
postponed, redirected, or cancelled. If a travel warning is issued when the program is already in the country, College
administration will need to review the warning to determine if the program can continue or should be cancelled.
Alcohol and Illegal Activities
A few words about alcohol, drugs, and dangerous behavior. The drinking age in France and
Belgium is 18. Even if you are 18 or older, Valencia does not permit alcohol consumption
during the program. It is the policy of KEI and Valencia Study Abroad and Global
Experiences that alcohol consumption is NOT permitted during the program. As a recipient
of (SAGE) funding, you are not permitted to consume alcohol at any time while abroad.
Should the consumption of alcohol result in property damage or bodily injury to yourself or
another, you will be sent home at your own expense, and your scholarship award will be
revoked.
If you engage in illegal/criminal activity in another country, you are subject to the local law, not the U.S. law. Some examples of
misconduct or violation of laws of the host country may include: any use of drugs or alcohol; disturbing the peace or disrupting
the community; repeated failure to control noise levels in student housing facilities; disruption of the academic environment of
the program, including repeated failure to participate in class assignments or to attend mandatory excursions; academic
misconduct, including plagiarism and cheating; vandalism perpetrated against public or private property; and assault or sexual
assault.
Do NOT, Do NOT, use illegal drugs!! French and Belgian authorities are VERY strict about drug use. If you are caught using
illegal drugs and/or you engage in potentially dangerous behavior you WILL be suspended from the program, you will be sent
home at your own expense, and your scholarship will be revoked. We have very strict policies about drug use and physical
conflicts– it’s for your SAFETY. We take safety very seriously, and we expect you to do the same.
Are you interested in seeing what happens to people who break the
law when overseas? Check out some of the episodes on “Locked Up
Abroad.” It will make you think twice!
http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/channel/locked-up-abroad/
Safety Tips
Like most large cities, you should be alert at all times. Therefore, we strongly encourage you to use the following guidelines for
general safety precautions. What do criminals looks for?
- someone who looks weak or vulnerable
-
someone alone or who appears lost
-
someone who is not attentive to their surroundings
-
dark and remote locations
-
no witnesses
 ALWAYS use the buddy system when going out (3 + people).
44
 ALWAYS tell the program leader or another student where you are going.
 ALWAYS carry emergency telephone numbers and addresses with you.
 NEVER leave a friend behind alone at a bar or with a stranger.
 NEVER get into the car with a stranger.
 Be sure how to recognize law enforcement.
 Know how to signal for help.
 Be alert at all times.
 Learn a few phrases in the target language.
 Know how to use a pay phone and carry change.
 Learn the safe areas of the city and routes to walk.
 NEVER carry all of your money in cash or expensive jewelry on you.
 Only walk on well-lit streets.
 Keep your valuable in a money belt. Wear your money belt around your waist underneath the clothing.
 Wear your backpack in the front, especially in crowded places.
 Leave your valuables, if you brought any with you, in a safe place.
 Do not change money on the street – use official exchange points only.
 Use ATMs during daylight hours and where plenty of people are visible. ATM machines attract thieves and pickpockets
who watch for tourists. Use an ATM inside a bank if possible.
 Be careful of cars; note the direction of traffic; not all countries yield to pedestrians.
 Look confident like you always know where you are and where you are going.
 Ask directions from someone in authority.
 If you are followed, go to a populated area and call for help.
 If you are threatened, attract attention, try to get away, and call for help.
 Wait for public transportation in well-lit areas.
 If you are alone, don’t sleep or become too involved in reading while traveling; always be aware of your surroundings.
 Beware of pickpockets in large crowds and on public transportation
 Often thieves will have accomplices who will:
-
jostle you
-
ask you for directions or the time
-
point to something spilled on your clothing
-
distract you by creating a disturbance
 If you are confronted, don’t fight back – give up your valuables.
 Avoid crowds and large gatherings.
 Do not tell strangers where you are staying.
 Understand the host country laws pertaining to alcohol, drugs, dress, appropriate behavior in public, etc.
In-Country Emergency Orientation
When you reach the country, your program leader should conduct an in-country emergency orientation session in order to point
out where to meet in the event of separation, how to get to the nearest embassy or consulate, how to call for the police, and
how to call for an ambulance.
45
In the Event of an Emergency
Contact MEDEX Emergency Response Center (24-hour access), by calling toll-free or collect using the phone numbers below,
or by emailing operations@medexassist.com. MEDEX is available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year to confirm your coverage
and give you access to the following services:
France: 0800-90-8505
Belgium: 0800-1-7759
Coverage includes: location of medical providers, medical monitoring, emergency medical transport, repatriation of remains,
emergency reunion, trip interruption, replacement of medication, guarantee of payments and method of payment, travel and
communication assistance, transmission and retention of urgent messages, legal assistance.
IN ORDER FOR THE INSURANCE TO BE ACTIVATED, YOU MUST
CONTACT MEDEX IMMEDIATELY. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL YOU
RETURN TO THE UNITED STATES.
Emergency Contact Information
Emergency numbers in France:
Emergency numbers in Belgium
These numbers can be dialed toll-free
from any cell phone or pay phone.
Ambulance
15
Police
17
Fire department
18
SOS Help
01.46.21.46.46
(English crisis line)
Police:
Fire Department:
Ambulance:
U.S. Embassy in Paris, France
U.S. Embassy in Brussels, Belgium
2, avenue Gabriel
75382 Paris cedex 08
Tel: +33.1.43.12.22.22
Fax: +33.1.42.66.97.83
http://www.amb-usa.fr/
Regentlaan 27 Boulevard du Regent
B-1000 Brussels
Tel: +32.2.508.2111
Fax: +32.2.511.2725
http://belgium.usembassy.gov/
U.S. Consulate in Strasbourg, France
KEI contact in France & Belgium:
Office/Mailing address:
15, Avenue d'Alsace
67082 Strasbourg Cedex
Tel: (33)3 88 353 104
Fax: (33)3 88 240 695
http://strasbourg.usconsulate.gov/
Daniele Katz
KEI Onsite Director
Paris, France
danieleka@club-internet.fr
+33 620332149 (mobile)
dial 101
dial 100
dial 100
46
Services of the Embassy:







Absentee Ballots
Arrest of a U.S. Citizen
Financial Assistance
Locating someone in an emergency
Legal Assistance
Lost or Stolen Passports
Medical Assistance
Parents & Friends
Stay in touch with parents and friends. While your parents may be excited for you, they are undoubtedly concerned about your
safety and health. A few emails/calls per week will go a long way to relieving their anxiety and helping you deal with re-entry
shock. Make sure to write down and take with you the following numbers:
Parents’ Home Tel:
______________________________
Parents’ Work Tel:
______________________________
Parents’ Mobile:
______________________________
Neighbor’s Tel:
______________________________
(in case of an emergency)
Relative’s Tel:
______________________________
(in case of an emergency)
Tune in to current news, including news from home. You can access many U.S. newspapers on-line.
PART 9: Upon Your Return
Reverse Culture Shock
Reverse culture shock, also referred to as re-entry shock, is the shock of being home after an extended period abroad. It is a
feeling of unfamiliarity in places that should be familiar; a feeling of discomfort with people who are close to you; or a feeling of
inadequacy when dealing with common situations. Simply put, re-entry shock is feeling like you are almost home.
Often, re-entry shock can be far worse than the culture shock you experience abroad. When you are abroad, you expect to feel
foreign. Coming home, you expect to feel safe and familiar. However, things are not the same. You have grown as a person,
your views have changed, and your outlook on life has been reshaped by your experiences. You also find that your family and
friends have changed; you missed important events at home and on campus; and others have taken your place in clubs and
social groups. Even the political and social climate of your home country may have undergone changes.
When this shock does occur, as it does for most in some form or another, it can make you feel extremely unsettled, isolated,
insecure and alone. It can spark an emotional chain of reactions, ranging from disengagement to euphoria to alienation, and
gradually, to readjustment. Like culture shock, it has a cycle which must be worked through. Re-entry shock can last mere
weeks, or may stretch for months, even years.
The key to minimizing re-entry shock is acknowledging its existence, and realizing that there may be frustrations with
readjusting to life in your home country. These frustrations are a normal part of your study abroad experience. Many of the
things that will help you reduce culture shock can also help relieve re-entry shock. Staying in touch with family, friends and
current events while abroad will go a long way to helping you readjust when you return home.
Program Close-Out Process
A condition of the scholarship you received is to complete the close-out process within two weeks of your return. You must:
1. Complete the online SAGE program evaluation.
2. Write a thank you card to your donor addressed to: My Esteemed Valencia Donor.
3. Upload your photos to the SAGE Flickr account. Ask your program leader for details.
Also, please consider doing the following:

post photos and something about your experience to the Valencia SAGE Facebook group:
http://www.facebook.com/groups/valenciastudyabroad/
47

share some of your photos with us at the end of your trip on the SAGE Flickr:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/valencia_sage/ (your program leader has the instructions and login information)
PART 10: RESOURCES
Online Newspapers:
Le Monde (relatively central newspaper)
Le Figaro (right-leaning newspaper)
Libération (left-leaning newspaper)
www.lemonde.fr
www.lefigaro.fr
www.liberation.fr
Movies Filmed or Set in France:
Le Fabuleux destin d’Amélie Poulain (2001) Known in the US as simply Amélie. We all wish Paris were this magical, but it isn’t.
Belle de jour (1967) A landmark of 1960s cinema.
L’Auberge espagnole (2002) Only a tiny portion of this international cooperative film is set in Paris, but its depiction of the
isolation, comraderie and growth of a group of study abroad students is right on the money, no matter where your own
experience takes you.
Le Dernier métro (1981) The tensions of life in occupied Paris. Nominated for Best Foreign Language Film.
Indochine (1992) Along with Le Dernier métro, considered Catherine Deneuve’s best work. Won Oscar for Best Foreign
Language Film, nominated for Best Actress. A strikingly different portrait of colonization in SE Asia than Americans are
normally used to.
La Grande vadrouille (1966) Oddly enough, a comedy about WWII that is actually funny.
Les 400 coups (1959) A semi-autobiographical study of adolescence, by New Wave director François Truffaut. Nominated for
an Oscar.
La Haine (1995) Difficult to watch, but still the reference for racial and social injustices in suburban Paris. Won 3 Césars and
nominated for 6 more.
La vie est un long fleuve tranquille (1988) Two babies, one from a working class family and the other from affluence, are
switched at birth. Hilarity ensues when the mistake is discovered. Won 4 Césars and nominated for 3 more.
La Grande illusion (1937) Prison camps, escape, and the changing world scene during WWI. A beautiful classic picture.
Nominated for Best Picture in 1939.
Le Dîner de Cons (1998) Brilliant social satire. Won 3 Césars and nominated for 3 more.
The Trifecta of Gooks on French Culture. Read them and all will become clear!
Carrol, Raymonde. Cultural Misunderstandings: The French-American Experience. Chicago: The University of Chicago Press,
1988.
Platt, Polly. French or Foe? Getting the Most out of Visiting, Living and Working in France. Illinois: Culture Crossings, Ltd, 1996.
48
Taylor, Sally Adamson. Culture Shock! France: A Guide to Customs and Etiquette. Portland, Oregon: Graphic Arts Center
Publishing Company, 1990.
Useful Sites:
French Tourist Board site
http://us.franceguide.com
Paris Office de Tourisme
http://en.parisinfo.com
French Prime Minister’s official site
www.premier-ministre.gouv.fr/en
French President’s official site
www.elysee.fr/elysee/english/welcome.2.html
European Union main site
http://europa.eu/index_en.htm
HAVE AN AMAZING JOURNEY AND BE SAFE!
From the SAGE Office
49