As the fall 2021 semester comes to a close, our community of study abroad students in Europe reflects on their semester, the lessons they’ve learned, and the places they’ve traveled.
In our first interview of the series, Sydney, a public health major from Northern Arizona University, shares about her experience studying in beautiful Paris.
1. Let’s start with a fun or strange fact you’ve learned about the city where you’re studying.
Do not try to start your day too early in France, or nothing will be open!! Also, the French value their lunch breaks, so expect to not have access to most establishments for a couple hours in the middle of the day.
2. What were the biggest culture shocks for you & how did you cope?
Culture shocks I experienced were being viewed as rude if I approached someone with a question, without greeting them first, or entering/ exiting an establishment without a greeting. All of these are seen as extremely rude, and I definitely had to deal with being that rude customer a few times, but was sure to learn from my mistakes, because I did not want to deal with that feeling again.
3. What is your favorite part about living in Europe & the lifestyle in the city where you’re studying?
I love the way Europeans live their lives. There is so much diversity and confidence everywhere I go. I pass a number of musicians on the streets or in the metro every single day, along with workers on an extended lunch break, enjoying a glass of wine with absolutely no rush.
4. What’s your major, and how does it relate to what you’re learning in your city?
I am a public health major, but focusing on fulfilling my general elective credits while abroad. I am taking an art impressionism class, where we get to visit museums with our class every couple weeks, along with a french language course, british history, and women’s film studies. I love getting to learn about these topics in this particular environment.
5. Give me your top three bars or clubs you’ve been to in Europe that you’d recommend for other students.
Ampere- Club in Antwerp, Belgium
Lavomatic- Speakeasy in Paris, France
Wanderlust- Club in Paris, France
6. What is one food or drink you’re glad you tried?
I am glad I tried escargot. I had had it one other time before, but it does not compare to the escargot in Paris. Same with street crepes, they were my go-to when I first arrived.
7. What is the main difference you’ve noticed between your home university and abroad university?
There is absolutely no tolerance for being late at a French university. Oftentimes, your professor will refuse your entry if you are not seated on the minute class starts.
8. Tell us one destination that surprised you and why.
Amsterdam!! The Netherlands was not in my top places to visit when I first arrived, but is the only place I have been back twice now. The energy of the people is amazing, and I have completely fallen in love with all of the gardens and beautiful parks.
9. What has been your favorite experience you’ve had while studying abroad & traveling so far?
My favorite thing about studying abroad is all of the people I have met. I now have connections all over the world, some in Europe for travel, and others who are native. I love getting to hear everyone’s story and how they ended up in the same place as me.
10. Something you wish you knew before studying abroad that would’ve helped you prepare?
I wish I had taken the language barrier into consideration more. However, it has not stopped me from going anywhere, and finding a way to communicate with people and get around.
If you’re currently studying abroad and would like to share your insights on your semester with us, or if you’re planning on or thinking about studying abroad in the future and have some questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!
