The other side of the mountain

By Jim Hynes | Some McGill students who want to improve their French language skills can now do so while pursuing their normal course of studies, thanks to an exchange program between McGill and the Université de Montréal.

The McGill-Université de Montréal Exchange gives students from the faculties of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Arts, Education, Religious Studies and Science a unique opportunity to study full-time for one or two semesters on "the other side of the mountain."

"It's French immersion at the university level, an opportunity for students to participate in an exchange without leaving Montreal," said Morton Mendelson, Deputy Provost (Student Life and Learning) at McGill. "Some students may also find Université de Montreal courses they are particularly interested in. They can earn academic credit and improve their French language skills while immersing themselves in the culture of a French Quebec university," Mendelson said.

A pilot version of the program began this winter, and Enrolment Services representatives from both schools have been visiting each other's campuses to conduct information sessions on the exchange.

The exchange program is open to McGill students from participating faculties who meet the following criteria:

• In U2 or U3;
• Have completed at least one year of study at McGill University;
• Have a minimum CGPA of 3.00;
• Are proficient in French;
• Are eligible to participate in the Quebec Inter-University Transfer Agreement.

Students wishing to take part in the program are urged to act quickly, as participation is based on normal course availability. The Université de Montréal's deadlines for registration apply to their courses, while McGill deadlines apply to courses here.

For more information consult www.mcgill.ca/student-records/iut/udem, call the Student Exchange Office in Enrolment Services at 514-398-8342, or email studentexchanges@mcgill.ca.