Journaling about my experience in Grenoble is my favorite way to process my thoughts and preserve the memories I make!  

Fun fact: Grenoble is the flattest city in France! Flat terrain supplemented with breathtaking views makes long walks or runs around Grenoble a treat!  

When studying abroad, many once-familiar things become foreign. It is important to keep an open and positive mind as you experience a new culture. Some things may irritate you; some things may surprise you, and some things you may not understand. For me, while studying abroad in Grenoble, my constantly caffeinated classmate in the U.S. is now absent from my class. In typical French schools, it is not appropriate to bring beverages other than water into the classroom, so sipping coffee during lectures is not permitted. Additionally, I began to notice that my usually very casual daily wardrobe now appears in contrast to the tall boots, long coats, and posh suit pieces everyone else seems to wear each day.   

My friends and I enjoy strolling through the Musée de Grenoble, learning about Grenoble history and French culture.   

If you’re ever in Grenoble, Crêperie Rouge Delice is a wonderful spot to experience an authentic French crêpe!  

As the semester continues, the contrasts between my norms at home and those in Grenoble have become more distinct. After the bliss of experiencing French culture for the first time fades away, transitioning into a daily routine—or routine quotidienne as the French say—sheds light on familiar things from home that I find myself missing. Noticing the differences between your home culture and your study abroad location’s culture can be frustrating and leave you longing for what is familiar. Alternatively, I have found that recognizing differences can also be beneficial.  

My church introduced me to a group of students who meet and practice French, discuss topics in the Bible, and celebrate different cultures (here, we are enjoying a Scottish-themed night)! 

Staying healthy is easier when you can enjoy fresh French produce from the daily fresh markets in Grenoble! 

Noticing the differences between the culture that I know and the culture that I am experiencing has enabled me to appreciate certain aspects of both my home and Grenoble more than I could have before. Spending an entire semester in another country is a frenzied mental exercise. To stay on your best mental game throughout the duration of your semester abroad, when all things familiar become foreign, it can be helpful to incorporate things you do at home with the things you now do in your study abroad location.  

My American friend and I continue meeting for our weekly Bible study, just like we do at our home university in the U.S. 

The local gym I joined in Grenoble is within walking distance from my residence; I enjoy walking to and from the gym every time I go. 

During the semester, I have found my ‘familiar’ in continuing to attend church every Sunday, hitting the gym during the week, taking long walks between classes, going out with friends, and reading before bed. Doing what I normally do in the U.S. while studying in France helps me remain grounded in who I am. In addition to carrying over my daily routine from the U.S., I find it helpful to write about what I am experiencing. Journaling and writing postcards to friends and family are two ways that I can process the new culture I am living in and stay connected to people while I am away. Recognizing and processing cultural differences helps me maintain an open and positive mindset without letting the contrasts dampen my experience!  

Point Cadres Grenoble creates stunning cards that I excitedly send to my friends and family. 

Navigating French culture can be overwhelming but sharing your experience with the people around you build quite a fun support group.