COURSE INFORMATION:

Students take the following course:

FREN 383: Summer Internship in a French Workplace - 3 credits

*FREN 381 is a pre-requisite for FREN 383.


PROGRAM INFORMATION:

This internship is a three credit course under the guidance of an on-site faculty member. It allows students to gain insight into the workings of professional work environments in a French work space. Students combine practical work experience with academic and analysis. They will have a supervisor in the host organization, but their learning experience depends very much on taking initiative and having a positive attitude. Students will need to display maturity, independence, and self-motivation.

Students minoring or majoring in one of the French programs get the opportunity to gain valuable applied experience and connections in professional fields. This course is directly associated with FREN 381 "Professional Business Practices in French" during which students prepare for a successful practical experience.

The internship placements will be in the Paris area. Prior to the start of the internship, students will undergo a four-day orientation. During the program, students will meet (at least) weekly with the professor for briefing and cultural education. The professor will make a monthly visit to the workplace to meet with the student and his/her supervisor (unless additional meetings are needed). During the seven weeks, students will work Monday through Thursday; Fridays will be the academic day during which they will do four cultural visits and four professional visits over the course of their stay. At the end of the internship, students will undergo a 3-day outcome assessment.


PROGRAM DIRECTOR:

Dr. Juliette Bourdier
Department of French, Francophone, and Italian Studies
bourdierjm@cofc.edu
843-953-6529

Dr. Bourdier has been an Assistant Professor at the College of Charleston since 2014. Before returning to academia and embracing literature, Dr. Bourdier was in the field of computer science and managed her own software engineering company for 15 years working with major international corporations. An understanding of import-export business between France and the U.S. derives from many years of experience as a partner and export manager for a French wine export business. In 2016, she remains a partner in a consulting firm in Paris, advising on marketing and communication. Using her training and experience in business, she teaches courses in marketing and professional practices, and is the program director for the College's Business Language Minor in French.

Note: For questions regarding on-site program details and course content, please contact Dr. Bourdier. Any inquiries regarding application processing, billing, or financial aid opportunities can be directed to the Center for International Education (contact information listed above).