France: Angela Garcia (A home away from home in Paris)
After a month of living here, Paris has truly begun to feel like my home away from home. My days here begin with taking the bus to a nearby metro station. One metro ride and a quick walk later, I arrive at the IES BIA Center and have a pain au chocolat for breakfast. Between classes, I grab a sandwich from a boulangerie or go to a restaurant for brunch if I have more time. Once I’m done with classes, I take the metro back home. Depending on the day, my earliest class starts at 8:45am and my last class ends at 6:10pm. Some nights I eat out for dinner, but for the most part I usually cook something at home. Then of course I’ll chip away at some assignments before watching some Netflix and going to bed.
One of my favorite spots that I will miss the most is le Jardin du Palais-Royal. It is a large garden located near le Louvre that has lots of benches, trees, and greenery. It’s also located near my go-to library, so it is a great spot for a lunch break. In fact, it’s the same place that Emily from “Emily in Paris” ate lunch and met Mindy! I will also miss the quiet mornings spent on the metro or bus. The metro here is efficient and its common to see people do work or read a book during their ride. You also get to enjoy some great views such as the Eiffel Tower on lines 6 and 9. Although Madison is truly my home, Paris will always hold a special place in my heart.
Angela Garcia
Hometown: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Major: Computer Science & Information Systems