I remember my first step into Paris, my first encounter with a historical monument, my first spoken word of French, and even my first bite into a mouth-watering French dish. Most of all, I remember the unfamiliarity and the initial fear and trepidation of being alone in a big city.
Sure, I've been independent during my first year in college - except I was a mere 3 hours away from home, in a city similar to my hometown, speaking a language everyone understood.
So, it isn't surprising at all that the biggest change I've developed while in Paris had everything to do with my character.
I became fiercely independent, unafraid of being alone, more confident and secure, and most importantly, I became dramatically more mature. Living in a foreign place essentially requires you to rely on yourself and to believe in yourself. Believe that you can successfully have a conversation in French, believe that you can navigate the intricate transportation systems, believe that you can plan your own travel itineraries while also juggling classes and schoolwork.
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| Studying in Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève - after figuring out how to get myself a library card |
The best way to change for the better is to step out of your comfort zone and experience things for yourself. While in Paris, I took on an internship, applied for a job, shopped and made meals for myself, traveled alone, and stayed positive and open-minded. These activities directly contributed to making me more mature and independent.
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| Some home-made pasta |
Even though I was only able to fulfill two of my major's requirements with the classes I was taking while studying abroad in Paris, I don't regret embarking on this journey at all. I feel that even beyond academics, the real life skills I've learned while in Paris will stay with me throughout my future and make me more inclined to success.
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| Reflecting on my semester abroad |
Studying abroad obviously isn't an easy, thoughtless adventure. I definitely had my fair share of struggles while abroad! Here are some things I wish I knew before going abroad:
- Always plan any trips in advance. You'd be able to save so much money and stay organized.
- Keep up with your budget by recording your purchases so you don't overspend.
- Doing things alone isn't at all scary. In fact, it's quite therapeutic and exhilarating!
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| Having a meal on your own can be fun! |
Bonne chance and have fun!
Kayla K. is the Fall 2016 CEA MOJO in Paris, France. She is currently a sophomore studying Business Administration, Criminal Justice, and Pre-Law at Point Loma Nazarene University.