When others ask me “in what way is France different than America?” it's as if they expect me to readily spit out one or two things that could allow them to experience it. But it's not that easy, and I usually respond, "everything." Of course, the experience makes up everything, and in fact, what people really want to know is what kind of life I led in the time that I was there. It all begins with an idea that becomes a dream. You make that choice to make it happen. After all the meetings with advisors, orientations, paperwork and budgeting, you are still thinking, "Is this really going to happen?"
Your departure date just does not come soon enough. The dreaming just gets heavier, and the lack of knowing what exactly to expect is unbearably exciting. Packing my suitcase was a monumental challenge. Rolling clothes makes them fit the best. I had to keep reminding myself that I was not going to a third world country; they have soap, toothpaste, and shampoo in France. Besides that, not taking a lot of clothes gave me an excuse to shop for clothing that will forever bring back fond memories of France whenever I wear them.
I was like a child at the zoo..."real French people! Look at all the signs, they are in FRENCH!!" The air was something I found remarkably different. I was thrown into the sea of French language, where I had to swim for life. I became a great charades player. My head hurt for weeks, as I was exhausted from translating. It must have taken a month to really take everything in. My life as a student in Pau had only just begun.
"Do you miss your family?" French friends would ask me. No, honestly, I did not, because they are always with me through e-mail, letters and phone calls. There was a time in the beginning when I felt a little homesick, but instead of calling home too much, I instead branched out to meet people, and in turn created a sense of home in Pau. I joined an African Dance group, fully participated in class to improve my speaking skills, did homework to improve grammar, and took every opportunity to meet French natives. Requesting a conversation partner was one of the best things I did for myself. I soaked up every ounce of what I could, and the USAC excursions were fantastic additions to the cultural experience. I visited castles, vineyards, cathedrals, and even the Basque Country.
When I found myself dreaming in French, I knew that I had completely immersed myself, reaching one of my biggest goals for being here in Pau. Before I knew it, I saw myself become more independent, adventurous, cultured and unafraid. I would not give up my experience for anything. From the original idea, through living the life of a Francophile, it has all been a dream come true.
University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC)
Established in 1982, USAC provides quality study abroad programs in 21 countries including intensive language & full curriculum programs. Month, summer, semester, & yearlong programs are available; as well as field trips, numerous housing arrangements, and internships.
(775) 784-6569 or usac.unr.edu
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