Category: France: American University of Paris

One of the most infamous labels associated with the United States is the “American Dream” – also known as the formula for success in this country. According to it, hard work achieves the idyllic lifestyle in America. As a result, the United States creates a work-positive environment where people are encouraged to be passionate about…

It has been two months since I returned home from Paris. During my last few weeks abroad, I could not wait to get home because it was too hard knowing that my time in France was at a quick end. When I arrived back in January, everything felt full of possibilities: travel, learning a language,…

One of the biggest adjustments that I had to make when living in France after a while was to not smile at others. Although it may seem small and silly, I think smiling and making eye contact with those around you in public is a big part of American culture. It isn’t like that in…

After returning from Paris, I have been reflecting on many of my experiences. I have been recently thinking on how many people in the city kept to themselves, or were generally polite but not much more. Usually on the metro or in cafes, many people would do their own thing while you would do yours….

So, it has been finished. Five months abroad are complete and I find myself back amongst the comforts of home. Now that I have all five months behind me, I am glad to have lived in Paris during the Spring semester of my junior year. Through the language barriers, my living situation, and the lack…

One of the most stark changes I had to adjust to was interacting with French staff in cafés, restaurants, and supermarkets. The first experience that stood out to me was during my second week in Paris while having dinner with some friends I made. Since I have previous knowledge in the French language, I always…

So far, I’ve been loving my experience living in Paris. Having lived here last summer, returning to functioning in the city has felt very natural. Much of the culture shock I experienced over the summer- mostly with language, the formalities of the culture, and how the French balance their work and personal life- have not…

While so far, I have loved France (and French culture), living in Paris has come with many downfalls. While I miss the sun and the warmth of a Florida Winter, what I miss most is the comfort of living somewhere that feels safe. Unfortunately, some fellow students and I have been housed in an uncomfortable…