One thing that I have learned during my time abroad in France is that the many stereotypes surrounding France are quite wrong. Coming into France, I was quite worried I was going to be dealing with quote on quote rude people, especially if I could not speak French very well. So far, I have been to many cities and towns in France, and this stereotype is completely false. Everyone I have met is so kind and generous, and I can say that I have met some of the nicest people in France, whether that being a water, a total stranger, or a worker in a shop. I have felt so welcomed and at home in France, which I was not expecting.
Another very interesting thing I have learned about France is their legal/democratic systems. France is known for their rebellions and revolutions, and the country is built from the people. That being said, a lot of major decisions and policies are chosen by the people, for the people, and French people, especially young adults, take this very seriously. I have encountered some protest while in France, and all of them have seemed to be peaceful, yet affective. For example, the usual bus route I take to get to school everyday was on protest because the drivers were not getting paid enough, and also there were not enough drivers, making the conditions unsafe for the workers. The workers protested by not showing up to work on a specific day. This shows how needed they are especially in Aix, and proves a point that they should be listened to.