Apres la France

Out of all the options available to me for study abroad, I chose France because I've already been to Spain and I wanted to experience something new. Also, being of French descent (creole), I wanted to see the origin of my heritage. I surprised myself out there; while in Spain I was more reserved and inhibited, thus I did not truly experience the culture. In France, I was more open to pretty much everything. From cooking classes, to swimming in deep waters, to eating zucchini and tomatoes, I've knocked down my walls of inhibition. Furthermore, I think I will be able to study abroad for a semester now. This was the perfect stepping stone from three weeks in Spain to six months in Japan, hopefully. While overseas, I decided that I would double minor in Spanish and French. Languages and international cultures are my passion, so instead of following a safe path, I've decided to follow what makes me happy (and the safe one too). Basically, this experience abroad has helped solidify my plans. I now know that Spain, France, and hopefully Japan will be my focal points in my career. Some future goals are to acquire a Master's Degree in Japanese and/or French studies.

As far as how the culture affected me, truthfully, it wasn't what I expected. We all have preconceived notions of other people, places, etc. France is beautiful and over there I breathe, I live, I love. It is so laid-back and calm, so free, so alive. I didn't run into people who were negative towards me. Matter of fact, they were all so excited and nice! They know the stereotypes, such as "All Texans love their state," which is very true (I'm from Texas). They adore Obama. It was so easy for me to relate to their culture too because of my Creole heritage. Some things I already knew: Mardi Gras, boudin, and such. Surprisingly, people didn't think I was American. They thought I was from Martinique, and I liked it that way. I could slide right on into the midst of them without them knowing, except for sometimes when I had trouble speaking. Because of this opportunity, I know where I want to go in live, figuratively and literally. I honestly think I would still be searching, and still be unsure had I not been graced with this chance. So thank you to all who made it possible!