|
|
 |
STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM - STUDENT EXPERIENCES
Nasim Sattar How did you select your Study Abroad location? I aspire to a career in international business and would benefit from fluency in a third language. I chose France because I have always wanted to live and travel in Europe, particularly in France . I selected Aix-en-Provence for several reasons. First of all, no one could deny the allure of the South of France, with the French Riviera and the Alps at easy access. Though my initial instinct was to study in Paris , I risked speaking too much English in such a huge, international metropolis. Alternately, Aix en Provence offered much more in the way of an immersion experience. The particular program that I chose seemed to be quite rigorous and challenging, which is what I was looking for. Why did you want to study abroad? My aspiration to become fluent in French has been largely facilitated by an immersion experience. Anyone who has worked with foreign languages will tell you that there is no better way to learn than to speak the language. The progress that I have made in a couple months is proof of this fact. Moreover, I love to travel, and the thought of spending 5 months in Europe was very appealing. What was the highlight of the experience? I would say the most rewarding part of this experience was living with a French family. Through a home-stay, I feel that I really penetrated the essence of the French way of life. I was fortunate to be matched with a family that welcomed me the way they did and the relationship that we've developed will remain throughout my life. Frankly, I can only say wonderful things about every aspect of this experience. What surprised you the most? The theory behind the education system in France is very different from that of the United States . Though I go to a private school, most of our professors are French and they mostly teach the "French way." I took for granted my ability to feel out my American professors and effortlessly succeed in their courses, whereas here in France , it was not as easy. It was not, by any means, impossible, but it took some time to get used to the classroom à la française. How has this experience affected your major and future career? More importantly than affecting my major, this experience has affected my life. Spending this much time in a foreign culture and learning the way that other people live teaches you how small where you come from really is. There are obvious reasons that this affects my second major in French. In terms of career, as I mentioned I would like to work abroad, and this experience has enabled me to develop my language skills. What would you tell students considering studying abroad? If you are considering it, I would tell you to do it - it will be the best experience of your life. I really can't say enough to encourage someone else, anyone, to study abroad. It is such an enriching experience. For those that seek to learn a foreign language, I would STRONGLY advise them to spend most of their time with those who speak the language. You can quickly compromise the extent of your progress by hanging out mostly with other Americans and speaking English too often. Otherwise, I would say to go with an open mind and enjoy what will no doubt be an incredible experience |
|
