<p>My daughter will be attending Sciences Po in the Fall. Does anyone have experience with Comforts of Paris? They have a nice website, but I don't know much more than that. Also, does anyone have experience with foyers, which are basically women's dorms. Thanks!</p>
<p>Hi Ms Mom,</p>
<p>I studied abroad in Paris for a year and I was the first person in my family to do this so I know what it feels like to be excited for your daughter but confused as to what happens next, especially when it comes to foreign living arrangements. Dorms are starting to become more popular in French universities but overall are rare. Foreign dorms are set up like American college dorms where you can have a roomie or single room and the buildings have gyms, laundry, lounge. Dorms can be a great option as the base cost is much lower than staying with a host family or renting an apartment but there are "after the fact costs " like food, transportation, utilities, health insurance, internet, land line (if want one) that can add up pretty quick. Does your daughter have dorm experience? This will help when it comes to transitioning to the living situation if she knows the general experience she can expect. Is she a French major/minor? Her understanding and knowledge of French culture will really be an asset if she is living amongst other French students in a dorm as the culture is very different from American culture.</p>
<p>I found in my personal experience that French college websites leave much to be desired when it comes to acutal information. If this foyer option still interests you and your student, contact the study abroad office for additional details. I also recommend this article on the ins and outs of living arrangements abroad to determine which living situation is best for your student <a href=“http://theabroadguide.com/how-to-find-housing-for-study-abroad/”>http://theabroadguide.com/how-to-find-housing-for-study-abroad/</a> or this website which is all about studying abroad in Paris <a href=“http://www.twentyinparis.net”>www.twentyinparis.net</a></p>
<p>Bonne chance!</p>