Preparation

When it occurs to you
- do all the leg work. lots of research. Take initiative. Most of the people who should be helping you from NU don't know as much about this program, and the people at Lille, well they aren't going to jump up and down to offer you information and help.- get the cash together. It can cost a lot, especially if you want to travel around France, or party every weekend.

Campus France
-sign up EARLY
-don't forget to log in and check for the approval email

VISA
-again, do it EARLY
-absolutely DO NOT go until you have all the forms listed on the website
-bring multiple versions if you are unsure about a particular item
-don't drive into NYC, stop in Newark and take the train
-plan to be there until well after your appointment- they don't return your passport until the end of the day (something like 3pm)

Packing
-pack light. Lots of layers and mix and match items. And weigh your suitcases before you go (you're going to have to drag those heavy buggers all over the country)

-Shoes. Don't bring anything you're not willing to walk a mile in. That's about all you'll be doing once you get here. If you bring heels, bring sturdy ones. The sidewalks are all cobblestone (ie ridiculously uneven), so flimsy little stilettos just won't survive long.

-if you are staying in a residence that has a kitchen, stop at a second hand store and get some cooking tools that you can leave behind when you come pack.

-if you're coming to Lille, definitely bring an umbrella compact umbrella. You quite literally never know when you'll need it. It rains at random intervals through out the day.

-make sure you bring a good, sturdy bag/book bag. Most places don't give out plastic bags, you either buy them or go with out. The book bag is great for this, and if you go to a marché (which you must) it's great for bringing back those goods as well. (nevermind that whole, bring an umbrella everywhere thing)