My experience ;)

Going on an exchange is the best thing you can possibly do for yourself. The experience is truly transformative and has entirely altered my world view. For me personally, I feel I could have studied French for years and still only understood the same three words when I arrived - but immersion is very much the best and fastest way to learn. Anticipate that sometimes the language barrier can feel like an impenetrable wall - learning a language can be a looong process but it could not be more worth it. I got placed in Bordeaux, which I am so grateful for because it was the most perfect city for me and I can't wait to go back. I was also so extremely happy in my host family, they're honestly some of my favourite people I've ever met. The orientation in Paris with all of the Nacel program students was also one of the coolest parts of the program. It was also nice to stay in touch with the kids throughout the program because we all knew what the others were going through. I cannot recommend going on an exchange enough.