<p>Hi, my name is Kaitlin. I'm beginning my last semester at a JC in the bay area and tagging to UCSD as a Psychology major (hopefully doubling up with Linguistics once I've transferred).</p>
<p>I always knew that I wanted to study abroad, and the Lyon, France program through EAP seems perfect. Now, I know that I haven't even been officially accepted yet, but since I have the luxury of holding a full time job now and working a ton during the summer, I'm trying to plan ahead as much as possible and have some idea of how much money I should be hoarding away. </p>
<p>So one of the things that I've been wondering: is it hard/competitive to get into the programs from EAP? If I meet the minimum requirements for the program, do I have much to worry about? </p>
<p>Also, are there any transfers that have gone abroad and have any experiences or advice to share?</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>Some of the programs are more competitive than others but as long as you write a decent essay and get your application in as early as possible you should be fine. Also, many programs require a letter of recommendation from faculty and that usually means it’s more competitive. You can check all of the requirements on the EAP page (which it seems you’re already familiar with, a good thing!) And make sure to keep checking deadlines and get lots of helpful tips on UCSD’s abroad site: [Programs</a> Abroad Home](<a href=“http://pao.ucsd.edu/pao/]Programs”>http://pao.ucsd.edu/pao/)</p>
<p>I am not a transfer but I did go abroad, if you have any specific questions feel free to PM me!</p>
<p>From a Programs abroad office staff member (yours truly):
I actually have a friend who is currently studying in Lyon through EAP, and she loves it. If you have a good command of French, then I do recommend immersion in order to get the full experience of living in another country, especially a non-English speaking one.
As far as competition, the advisors here are pretty flexible and they say that they will find a way to get you abroad! There are multiple ways to get to any country (through OAP providers, etc) so where there’s a will, there’s a way. Just stay on top of your deadlines and don’t totally screw up the application. However, since you are already thinking about it, I’d say you are on the right track (I see students coming in every day who are weeks, even months behind…aghhh) so no worries there. Just plan, and save. Because as you probably know, the euro is much stronger than the dollar, and I guarantee you will spend more money than you can guess you will at this time. </p>
<p>Feel free to call the office (858) 534-1123 or of course talk to returnees like ucsandiego915 or I (I went to Ireland over the summer) to get the inside scoop. Happy travels! :)</p>