Student Spotlight: Brooklyn Washington in France
What does family life look like in your host country? Have you noticed any traditions, or lifestyle dynamics within families?
“Family dynamics are strong and close here in France. There are an average of 1-2 children in a household. There has been a drastic decline in larger families over the last decades. Something I have noticed in family lifestyle is how active the families are together, for activities like cycling, running, and soccer. French people enjoy spending time outdoors, especially in summer. Meals are also important for French families, where everyone is eating together at the table. I have also noticed that it is common for a television to mainly be in the living room. I believe that this is a way for families to pass more time together, rather than everyone doing their own thing.”
How important is financial literacy in your host culture? Are there many social programs? How is wealth distributed within your host country?
“Banque de France is a social program that aims to educate citizens about financial literacy, budgeting skills, and economic improvement amongst the country. This sector of government has been a part of France’s economic system for over two hundred years. Because of the pandemic, and the lending of government funds to citizens, there is still a lot of recovery France is doing to improve the financial stability of their country. Based on recent articles, earnings and wages in France - statistics and facts, says that the average annual salary is €43,592 which is roughly equivalent to $46,000 in the United States. Compared to the United States, that is around the middle class.”
What sustainability practices have you noticed in your host country? Are there any ways that your host country could improve or that you would like to implement back at home?
“A substantial practice that is incorporated in France, is the use of public transportation, and public jobs. Buses, trains, railways, and metros remain in high demand, and used in daily life. The public transportation system brings in millions of euros every year. France has sustained its public transportation system very well over the years. It increases job opportunities, good for fuel efficiency, and reduces traffic congestion. With cleanliness, I think that the French people could improve their ways to upkeep their streets, and themselves. For example, it is very common to see animal feces in the streets, and people using it in public. I think that the government should invest in doggy bags for public parks, and places where dogs are welcomed.”