Faculty-led Program in France and Belgium

LANG 2020-6A/FREN 2020: Constructing Cross-Cultural Bridges  (3 credit hours) 

/ This course can be taken as a UNIFI requirement or elective or as a French course. If taken as FREN 2020, it may satisfy a requirement for the French 2+2 major, credits toward a French Language Teaching Endorsement, or an elective for the Interdisciplinary French Minor or Certificate in French Language Studies.

France is globally known for its art, history, architecture, literature, science, philosophy, fashion, and cuisine. It holds the title of the world’s leading tourist destination and a cultural history rich in diversity. Belgium is known for trilingualism (with three official languages: Dutch, French, and German), for its international presence, for its international presence and diversity, and as one of the founding members of the European Union. Its capital Brussels currently housess the E.U. Parliament. The interdisciplinary nature of the course incorporates a variety of learning experiences, including but not limited to: cultural readings, lectures, presentations, class discussions, and tours of iconic cultural and historical sites. These experiences will allow students to examine culture’s role in an individual identity and reality formation. Students will explore France through many lenses with the objective of reaching a greater understanding of its cultural, historic, and linguistic diversity, culminating in a cultural comparison between France and the U.S.

Participation in this program requires five class meetings throughout the spring semester, on per month (January through May), prior to departure. The specific dates of these meetings will be scheduled through a meeting scheduling application sent out to the entire group once the entire group has been established. The actual travel is scheduled for the summer. If you are a summer graduate, you must notify the course leader in order for coursework completion and grading to be adjusted in a timely manner for your graduation. Not doing so could result in delayed graduation, since final grades are assigned either in June or August for this program. Please contact the program's course leader for more information on coursework requirements due dates.

No prerequisites. All majors welcome. Participation in this program requires several class meetings during the Spring semester, although the course is scheduled as a Summer session course. The Study Abroad Center will enroll participants in the course. Please contact the program's course leader for more information on academic requirements.  

Talk to your academic advisor about how this course would work for you!

NOTES:

• Students planning to participate in the spring commencement ceremony in May can enroll in this summer term program, however, their degree will not be conferred until the end of the summer term and is contingent on the successful completion of the program and all required coursework.
• Students attending colleges and universities other than UNI are welcome to participate in this program. If you are not currently a UNI student, but would like to participate in this program, please contact the UNI Study Abroad Center prior to starting your program application.

The May Term in Paris and Brussels offers students a culturally rich immersion into French language and European society, designed to foster cross-cultural understanding. Beginning in Paris, the program includes visits to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Seine River, and the Latin Quarter, combined with neighborhood explorations and group dinners that encourage informal conversation and connection. Transitioning to Brussels, students engage with European institutions including the Parliament, explore Congolese heritage in Matonge, and experience traditional Belgian arts. Through guided tours, local interactions, museum visits, and free exploration time, participants build language skills and broaden their perspectives on European and global cultures.

Studying abroad offers rich cultural immersion, but it may also involve unfamiliar sensory experiences. You might encounter new sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and environmental conditions that differ significantly from what you're used to. These can be exciting but also overwhelming for some individuals, especially those with sensory sensitivities. We encourage all participants to approach these experiences with curiosity and adaptability. If you have sensory sensitivities or specific concerns, please reach out to program staff.

Hotel accommodations for students will be arranged in advance by the Study Abroad Center and fully included in the total cost of the program. Also included in the program cost are select meals during the program. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to explore local cuisine and dining experiences. 

Health Preparation for Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity, but it also requires careful planning—especially when it comes to your health. To ensure a safe and successful experience, we strongly recommend the following steps:

1. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider Early
At the time you are selecting your study abroad program, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or specialist to discuss:

• Medication Legality: Some prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legal in the U.S. may be restricted or illegal in other countries. Your provider can help you determine if your medications are permitted in your destination and suggest alternatives if needed.
• Chronic Conditions or Health Concerns: Discuss how your health needs might be affected by travel, climate, time zone changes, or access to care abroad.
• Mental Health Support: If you are currently receiving mental health care, talk with your provider about how to maintain support while abroad.

2. Schedule a Travel Health Consultation (6–8 Weeks Before Departure)
A separate travel health consultation is essential and should be held at least 6–8 weeks before your departure. During this appointment, a travel medicine specialist can:

• Review your destination-specific health risks
• Recommend or administer necessary vaccines
• Provide guidance on food and water safety
• Prescribe medications for travel-related illnesses (e.g., malaria, traveler’s diarrhea)
• Offer tips for managing jet lag, altitude, and other travel-related challenges

These appointments can be held at the UNI Student Health Clinic. For more information on their services, please visit their website.

Accessibility and Study Abroad: Plan Ahead for a Smooth Experience

If you are a student with a disability or accessibility concern—whether related to mobility, learning, mental health, chronic health conditions, or other needs—we encourage you to connect with Student Accessibility Services (SAS) as early as possible, ideally during the program selection process. Early communication allows our team to understand your specific needs and preferences and explore available accommodations in your host country.

Accessibility resources and standards can vary widely by country, so advance planning is essential to help us advocate for your needs and create a positive, inclusive experience abroad.

Reach out to Student Accessibility Services to start a conversation. The sooner we know, the more we can do to support you.

A faculty-led study abroad program combines academic learning with cultural immersion, guided by university faculty. Students earn credit through hands-on experiences and site visits tailored to the destination. The program fosters a strong sense of community through shared housing, group activities, and cultural events, creating lasting bonds among participants. This type of program has limited individual free time and days will be spent primarily with other group members. If you are interested in a more individualized program experience, we encourage you to check out our partner university summer school opportunities.

Study abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be challenged by new experiences in new environments and cultures. UNI study abroad programs are designed to prioritize educational opportunities for students. Students are encouraged to embrace the adventure of exploring how housing, meals, and daily routines differ abroad.

Meet your Advisor:

Stephanie is a full time study abroad advisor who will help you throughout the application process to France, including documentation, finances, scholarships, and more. From your first steps meeting until you take off for your new adventure, Stephanie will help you every step of the way. 

Identities Abroad

The Study Abroad Center (SAC) wants to support you as you prepare for your study abroad experience. In addition to course planning and arranging accommodations, it is also important to engage in personal reflection before your departure. There may be certain aspects of your identity that could potentially impact your international experience in ways that you have not faced or thought about previously. As we are here to help guide you, you may want to consider meeting with the SAC staff to discuss this as you plan your abroad experience. Please visit our Identities Abroad page for more information and help.

Entry and Exit Requirements 

Review and follow the travel recommendations of the U.S. State Department for travel to France and Belgium.