I like to believe I am a busy person in most areas of my life. My friends and family are often exhausted just listening to my energetic ideas and ‘to do’ lists! My active weekdays, hectic weekends and adventurous trips and holidays are all part of building upon new experiences and learning in life. Having lived and worked abroad for several years, this is also often the case with many people who are keen to jam as much into life as possible, to make the most of every chance and to create incredible stories to share experiences for later in life. I like to think of them as ‘dinner-party’ stories to share!
As part of squeezing the most out of life, completing a language course and studying French in the south of France, is the type of language immersion program I was after. It is something that I have wanted to add to my list for a long time. Specifically included in the fine print to learn French, it would have to take place in a small city. I wanted to fully understand French lifestyle, the language, the activities and everyday routine. The French immersion program offered at ILA, was a convenient way to meet new people at a language school in France. I was particularly interested in the fact that many people of all ages, choose to undertake the French language residential courses and for a variety of interesting reasons.
I jumped at the opportunity to experience a French immersion program in Montpellier! My friends were envious of this adventure but not surprised that I wanted to learn the language and live in France for a month (this was as long as I could arrange, this time around!).
Beginner French in Montpellier
Upon arrival at ILA, I was enthusiastic to get to know other students and start learning French! On my first day, I arrived with many other new students and was cheerily greeted by staff who assisted with registration and the induction process. I had enrolled for a month and the beginner class was at the right level for me. If it is not, students are encouraged to speak with staff if this is not the case.
I was welcomed by my lovely and qualified teacher Leila. This beginner level of French, set in a classroom within the historic mansion house, in the centre of Montpellier, seemed to me, as if I was beginning to tick something off my list. Now to learn French!
Over the past few weeks, I have enjoyed the variety of class activities, all in French! This was initially a small challenge to get used to. However, from the comprehension activities to learning new vocabulary, and different themes to assist learning each day, the conversations in class help to build upon sentences, correct grammar and practice French language. As a beginner, the class environment is very supportive and the small class structure makes it easier to learn with others. My teacher Leila is always patient enough to work through the exercises to ensure each student fully understands and increases their language skills in her class.
French beyond the classroom
True French immersion includes taking part in other parts of French life and exploring options outside the classroom. Amongst my trips to quiet villages or cities such as Avignon and Marseille, I was also interested to participate in the regular activities that are arranged each week at ILA. These are mostly in the afternoons or evenings after class and are a fantastic way to take French further than normal class exercises, and undertake the opportunity for French immersion!
For a true sense of French language immersion in Montpellier, the particular excursions or activities organised by ILA are something which I would highly recommend. These include cheese or wine tastings, excursions to surrounding areas such as Arles, Sete, the Camargue or a cooking course or wine tour to the nearby wine region to the north of Montpellier.
I was originally attracted to learn French in Montpellier for the sunny days in a vibrant city but I feel my French immersion has extended far beyond the classroom in such a short time. Getting involved in a language school in Montpellier has been an ideal way to study French, learn the language and understand the French lifestyle a little further. I have definitely experienced this through my course in Montpellier and more.
I have met many interesting people in Montpellier, including students and locals young and old. Each person has a wonderful story and their own reasons as to why they love Montpellier. I can add mine to the list!
Anna, Australia (ILA student)