How about improving your French by working there? One of the best ways of improving a language is by immersion, that is, by living in a country where the language is spoken. And what better way to involve yourself than by working? It's not always easy to get that job or placement though so one of the best ideas I've come across recently is the Cactus work placement scheme in Bordeaux with its ideal combination of coursework and job. You need to be over 18 and have 12 weeks available, four weeks on a course and eight weeks in a placement.
Placements can be in the following areas: Advertising, Agriculture (farming & wood industry), Banking, Boating industry, Hotel & catering, Commerce, Computer, Education, Insurance, Marketing, Media (new technology, newspaper, TV, radio), Tourism, Trade, Wine & spirits (production, making, marketing), and others upon request.
As well as improving your language, it should give you an insight into the French way of life and give you valuable experience to help you in your future career. And who knows, if you impress your employer, you may, like others before you, get an extension or even an offer of full time work.
