Roxana J. Study Abroad Ambassador
What is one word to describe your study abroad experience:
"The best place to learn more about the language and culture is to be immersed in France itself!"
ROXANA J.
Exchange student at Universite Grenoble Alpes, France
Summer exchange
Studying Human Kinetics, minor in French
- What is the best thing that happened while you were studying abroad?
Meeting & connecting with classmates from all around the world - Brazil, Thailand, Korea, Afghanistan, Denmark, Chile, and the list goes on! It was special knowing we all shared the same vision; studying & improving our French in France!
- What was the biggest cultural adaptation you had to make?
No major cultural adaptations as I've been immersed in studying/learning the French culture throughout my studies. One thing that did stand out was that many businesses and shops are closed for the month of August.
- In terms of your own cultural self-awareness, were there any instances where you realized that your own behaviours, perspectives, or attitudes were different. Where did those differences stem from?
The main differences would have stemmed from comparing Quebec culture with France culture. Keeping an open mind and taking time to observe, listen and ask questions was the most valuable to growth.
- Where was the coolest place you travelled to during your study abroad experience?
One of my favourite places I got to visit was a town called Annecy, also known as La Venise des Alpes. Only a 1-hour bus ride from Grenoble, my friends and I got to enjoy a day filled with swimming & pedal boating on Lac d’Annecy, a glorious lake bordered by mountains and crystalline waters, castle touring and enjoying delicious ice cream from the Glacier des Alpes!
- What is something that you know now, that you wish you knew before you studied abroad?
You dont need to plan everything you do you! Go with the flow, and I can guarantee you'll enjoy it even more!
- What was your best learning moment?
Going on solo trips! Committing a proper weekend trip by myself was a great way to gain self-confidence and feel more independent, and not to mention you get to decide everything you do without having to negotiate.
- Who was the hardest person to leave from home? How did you deal with that?
I've been waiting for this study-abroad opportunity since January 2020, so when the trip was finally able to happen, I honestly didn't feel this sense of sadness of leaving home since I was finally eager to learn & explore on my own! It was also just over a month, so in the meantime, I was able to connect with new international friends who became like family during my trip.
- Who was the hardest person to leave that you met while on exchange? How did you deal with that?
My dear friend Clara, a Brazilian classmate left back home early. A friend who was studying at Uni. Grenoble Alpes for 6 months prior to the Summer Language Program. A sweet soul that showed me around town and always invited me to places with her French-Brazilian friends. I am happy to say I am still in contact with her to this day!
- If you were to recommend exchange to your best friend, what would you say?
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!, especially if already studying French! The best place to learn more about the language and culture is to be immersed in France itself! You also receive a full credit for 1 month of studying & traveling, a win-win!
- What are your packing recommendations?
DO's - a small travel-size journal to document any new experiences - a small fan (no AC in France, and the weather gets very hot) - a backpack for easy weekend travels - your favourite snacks (i.e. walnuts, almonds) - a raincoat/umbrella - comfortable walking shoes!! - Travel packing cubes - Power adapter - Laptop for school
DON'T - overpack clothes, you will definitely buy clothes there
- Would it be helpful to learn another language for this exchange?
For this program, it's best to have a basic foundation of French but not necessary to be fluent. The ORA Summer Language Program offers an intensive French language course for Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced level. You also learn an immense amount of everyday vocabulary outside of school!
- What role did language and communication (both verbal and non-verbal) play in fostering appreciation for a different perspective?
Practice practice practice! Don't be discouraged or embarrassed about your level of french. Always find opportunities to speak french, especially when outside of school.
- Did you live on-campus or off-campus? Would you recommend it, and why?
All the Canadians visiting France stayed in a private residence that was offered only 15 minutes away from campus. The residence was perfectly located and consisted of a single room with its own washroom, a huge common area, a kitchen, and even a swimming pool! It was a great place to come together and socialize as opposed to a homestay!
- How did you finance your study abroad experience?
I was happily able to go on this trip with the help of family-provided educational money as well as saving up funds from working the month of July prior to my travels. There was also a $1,200 OUI Program Scholarship available that was given after the program.
- How do you see your exchange experiences benefiting your future career?
During my study abroad, I had the honour of having the best prof to conclude my undergrad studies. A prof who inspired me to maybe one day become a teacher. Knowing I have a passion for travel and for teaching, this experience helped solidify this decision.
- Is there any other helpful information you would like to share with future study abroad participants?
If you're already traveling to Europe, it's best to check out neighboring countries to explore more! Plus flights/train rides are fairly cheap, so why not?
