Category: France: American University of Paris

I found it refreshing to adapt to Parisian culture when it came to taking a break. French culture values work/life balance, which is something I was unfamiliar with as an American. Their meals are slower, their work breaks are longer, and even in the hustle of Paris, there are bounds of cafes and gardens to…

While studying in Paris, I encountered many cultural differences. The main cultural difference that I encountered was the French attitude toward lifestyle and how they balance their lives. I noticed that the French tend to move at a slower pace. Overall, they have more leisure. At first, I was a bit shocked because I liked…

Objective Description During my semester abroad in Paris, I encountered the cultural phenomenon of the long, leisurely meals that the French deeply value. Unlike in the United States, where meals are often quick and functional, French dining culture emphasizes extended periods of eating, conversing, and simply enjoying the company. Meals can last several hours, particularly…

Blog Post 1 The U.S. has many cultural aspects, however, one major aspect of U.S. culture that stands out to me is America’s work culture and fast paced way of life that has been integrated in American’s everyday lives. Hard work is valued in many other countries, but what makes the United States work life…

The U.S. Culture involves a fast-paced way of living, where every second has a purpose. The culture puts a high value on productivity and time management within their schedule. Although some people do not follow this way of living this lifestyle it’s shown in various aspects of American society such as the business environment and…

One of the biggest cultural differences that I observed throughout my time abroad was the attitude difference in public environments in comparison to the United States. At least from where I am from it is very custom to simply smile or make small talk to complete strangers, but in Europe, more specifically Paris where I…

My first cultural observation took place when I visited the Emergency Room in Paris. After hitting my head and experiencing concussion symptoms, I thought it would be best to get evaluated by a professional. When I arrived at the hospital, I was met with shortness and indifference from the nurses. After waiting for several hours,…

The absolute, heavy reliance and need for public transportation has been one of the biggest things that has stood out to me about my host country in the month and a half of being here.  After looking it up, I found that Parisians use public transportation 11,267,000 per day on average. Whether that be the…

What is time in Paris? Some see it as a distant concept. Others see it as a suggestion. There are also those who do not know what it is at all. During my first month in Paris, I have learned that timeliness looks different for each resident of this metropolis.  Take my apartment building for…