The first four weeks of the program consisted of French language courses at École des Mines, a school that is part of INPL.  Our group of students was divided into two sections based on abilities of writing (the initial essay written for the IPENG application) and speaking.  Each day there were normally 4 hours of classes: from 10 am - 12 pm and from 2 - 4 pm, with a 2-hour lunch break in-between.  We rotated through three teachers throughout the week, so when homework was assigned, if ever, there was always plenty of time given to complete it.  Each week also consisted of at least one excursion or additional class.  Most of the additional classes we had were a lot of fun because we joined English classes with French students where we discussed American and French stereotypes, spoke with French students in French while they practiced their English, and watched their presentations about American movies.

Ecole des Mines Located approximately 20-30 minutes from the dorms, this is where the French language courses take place	Classroom Photo Rachel, an Intermediate+ level teacher, with our normal sized class
Classroom Photo Olivier, a teacher for both levels of students, and five of the American students	Classroom Photo The Intermediate level group consisting of the American and international students