Student Spotlight: Brooklyn Washington in France
What is one challenge you experienced during your first month? How did you overcome that challenge?
“A challenge I experienced during my first month was securing housing. When I arrived, all the students had hotel accommodations for 10 days. After that, we had to secure and find our own housing. The Student Village (university dorms) is currently being renovated, and the students were aware until arrival. I had connected with a lady I met on the plane who has been very welcoming and helpful. I reached out to her to see if she knew any open apartments, or host families. She helped me find a permanent location while I am here abroad. If it wasn’t for me asking for help, then I would probably still be stuck in a hotel and paying a lot more money for housing accommodations.”
What similarities and differences have you experienced between your host culture and your culture?
“Within French culture and American culture, there is a high percentage of people who are omnivores. Both places appreciate good quality food. French people highly appreciate their bread, cheese, meat, wine, and produce. In my culture being an African American from Louisiana and California, I appreciate soul food, seafood, and Mexican food. In both places, young adults and teenagers are laid back. I have also noticed that mannerism is important in both cultures. I was raised using ma’am and sir. In France, everyone is either madame or monsieur. Major differences I have noticed between both cultures is that America has a faster pace of work/life balance, and every activity. Coming here from California, the people in the U.S are a lot friendlier, and happy. It is easy to make conversation with people on the streets. While France has a slower pace, and really value their lunch time and work hours. Many people’s days start later, and they enjoy 1-2 hours for lunch. It is common to find a lot of restaurants, jobs, and grocery stores closed from 12-2pm for lunch here in Aix. Also, it may be harder to hold conversations with people here, and not everyone will smile at you when passing by.”
What are you looking forward to experiencing in your second month abroad?
“In my second month abroad, I am looking forward to starting school on the 16th of September. I am ready to meet new people on campus, and begin connecting with people from different backgrounds, countries, and cultures. My university’s program is full of international students coming to learn French. I am thrilled to be a part. Another thing I am looking forward to this month is joining a club on campus, and being involved in student life.”