Below is an exchange with two former students of the program.

Marwa, Syria, DU Passerelle, 2021-22

Can you introduce yourself in a few words? 

My name is Marwa. I come from Syria where I was a pediatrician. I am married and I have two children. 

Why did you decide to enroll in the DU Passerelle? 

I had started learning French on the internet but I quickly realized that I needed more practice and a more stimulating environment. So I started looking for a course and on the advice of my husband who was already studying at CIREFE, I decided to register for the DU Passerelle.

What did you think of it?

The professors were very friendly and the courses were very well structured. My classmates came from different parts of the world, and I found this opportunity to be able to exchange with people from other cultures very enriching. We were all going through some difficult things: being far from home and part of our family, having to learn another language, learning about another culture, finding time to rebuild ourselves individually while managing a family and children... It was complicated but fortunately, the word solidarity was never an empty phrase for my friends, my teachers and me. I would like to thank them all warmly.

How would you rate this training? 

I have a much better level of French today, that's undeniable, but the biggest benefit for me is to have gained confidence in myself! At the beginning, I was afraid to speak French, afraid to make mistakes in fact, and as I am very perfectionist, this blocked me. Thanks to the support of my teachers and classmates, I was able to overcome this difficulty and to fully enjoy the classes. From then on, my level improved rapidly.

What are your plans today?

My family and I will soon be moving elsewhere in France because I have been offered a position as an associate practitioner in the pediatric department of a local hospital. This is a fantastic opportunity and I can see how far I have come. 

Jessica, Angola, DU Passerelle, 2020-2021

Can you introduce yourself in a few words? 

My name is Jessica and I am from Angola. I have been living in France for 4 years.

Why did you decide to enroll in the DU Passerelle? 

I wanted to be able to study in France and to do so, I needed to brush up on my French and acquire an academic methodology. This is what CIREFE's DU Passerelle offered, so I didn't hesitate for long. Moreover, I really wanted to learn with a group. 

What did you think of it?

At the beginning, it was a bit difficult because the courses were in video, but little by little, I got used to it. I really liked the fact that the course materials were sent in advance so I could prepare myself. I also liked the civilization classes, I learned a lot about French culture and the history of the country. As for the language courses, they made me want to practice my French more and to exchange with more people. So I decided to volunteer and join two associations, Dida and Langophonies.

How would you rate this training?

I found it excellent! Thanks to the methodology I acquired, I was able to prepare my applications for Parcoursup with confidence. I would like to take this opportunity to warmly thank my teachers. 

What are your plans today?

I have just been accepted to a nursing school, after applying on Parcoursup. I have always wanted to do a job that would allow me to help people, so I am very happy.