France: Collin Dewey
Program: Academic Program in Aix-en-Provence, Spring
Collin’s Majors: Computer Sciences; French
How were your program academics similar or different from taking classes at UW–Madison?
The academics were quite different when compared to the classes at UW. First, while classes at UW fall into categories such as 50 mins/3-day classes or 75 mins/2-day classes, classes in France are usually once a week for a longer period, typically 3-4 hours. Secondly, the line of communication with teachers at UW will most certainly not exist with the teachers in France. While some might have the same level of interaction, that will usually not be the case, and it could be difficult to get information/responses from them. Thirdly, the style of lectures can be quite different. At UW, many professors use PowerPoints in order to structure their class and give a detailed path of learning. From my experience, it is not uncommon for a teacher to give the lecture simply by speaking into the microphone for the duration of the class. This leads to another point: compared to UW, French universities give little to no homework. For this reason, the final exam holds considerable weight over your final grade and therefore, in French classes, it was quite normal to take note of everything the professors say in lecture in order to have detailed notes.
What is your advice for someone considering your program?
For advice, while it may sound strange, I would say to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations. The only way to do this is by putting yourself out there and trying new things. Study abroad is not meant to replicate your life at home because if it did, you would be losing out on the riches of living and experiencing a new culture, country, and people. However, if you learn to love trying new things and potentially being a little uncomfortable at first it can lead to lifelong memories and lasting friendships. From being on this program, I’ve met some incredible people and made deep-rooted friendships from just putting myself out there and not being afraid to try something different. When considering this program, I encourage you to view this as an opportunity to grow and open a new chapter of yourself and who you wish to become. This is a chance to be the person you wish to be and curate a life abroad the way you wish it to be.
Study abroad is not meant to replicate your life at home because if it did, you would be losing out on the riches of living and experiencing a new culture, country, and people.
What is a custom, food or tradition from your host country that you are taking forward?
There is a saying that in France people work to live while in the US people live to work. You see where this comes from because in France, people live to profit from the day meaning that they do not rush the little moments. Whether that be enjoying a lunch in front of a cafe for 2 hours or finding a seat outside to talk with friends, they take their time to enjoy whatever activity they are doing. They use it to create a separation between work and daily life and to me, that activity and mindset of enjoying the daylight and being present without worrying about the stresses of life is something that I will continue to practice.