France: Samantha Engel (Final Reflections)

As this program comes to an end, I am nothing but grateful for this experience I got to have. Living in another country has its challenges but boy was it worth it. There was so much I learned about living in other cultures. For example, Parisians do not talk very loudly so I learned quickly how to talk more quietly. Especially on the metro. I can now proudly walk into any restaurant, café, or bakery and order my food with confidence. When I first got here the workers would immediately start using English with me because they could tell I was American. Now they can recognize my face and use French with me when I am ordering!

Living here has also become a lot easier. I have a routine and now this environment feels normal to me. I am very proud of myself for going on this journey as it was out of my comfort zone. I made close friends, and I am excited to continue our friendships back in Madison. I had the opportunity to visit so many other countries and experience their culture as well. What was most fun was trying all the different types of food. My favorite was the gnocchi in Rome, Italy. Here in Paris, I am going to miss the pizza. They work so hard on making each pizza the best thing you’ve had. How am I supposed to go back and eat American food? Although I do miss Raising Canes. It has been a dream come true to live in Paris for a semester and experience another culture. I am already planning my next trip back!

 

Samantha Engel

Hometown: West Allis, Wisconsin

Major: Legal Studies

Program: UW in Paris

I chose this program because I have studied the French language and culture for the past eight years. I decided that I wanted to further my knowledge of the language and culture in France while still earning credit for my major. This program allowed me to do that since the classes are in English. Now I get to go off on my own and experience a new culture and have a once-in-a-lifetime experience!