Montpellier, my three years in France

Bonjour!

This post is a bit different from the others I did, because I have decided to talk about my university experience in France that lasted three years of my life and represents now such a fundamental step of my personal life and career, that I have decided to answer some important questions that could help people take the their decisions for a next step in life.

Q: Letizia, what motivated you to choose France for your university studies?

I’ve always had a deep love for the French language. It started when I was 15 years old and visited France for the first time. The language captivated me, and I knew I wanted to improve my skills. France felt like the natural next step for me to immerse myself in the culture and language fully.

Q: How would you compare the French education system to that of Italy?

While I didn’t attend university in Italy, I’ve heard a lot from my classmates, and I can say that there are key differences. In Italy, the education system is much more academically oriented, with exams based on dense textbooks. In contrast, in France, there’s a stronger focus on practical skills. We had plenty of workshops and activities with less emphasis on theory, which I really appreciated.

Q: What was your major, and why did you choose that field of study?

I studied Langues Étrangères Appliquées (Applied Foreign Languages), which involved studying English and Russian, as well as marketing, economics, and geopolitics. It was the perfect combination of my love for languages and my growing interest in how the world works, particularly from a business and cultural perspective.

Q: Was there a particular subject or course that challenged you during your studies?

I loved all of my courses, so it wasn’t necessarily about challenges. However, private and public law were particularly difficult, with some tough exams. But it was part of the learning process, and I felt I grew through it.

Q: Did you have the opportunity to do any internships or research while studying in France?

Yes, I participated in a fantastic university program called “Extra EU Erasmus.” This exchange program allowed me to travel to Russia for four months, which was an amazing opportunity to explore another culture while continuing my studies.

Q: How did you adapt to the French lifestyle and culture as a student?

The French lifestyle felt quite similar to Italian life in some ways but different in others. For example, in France, it’s very common for young people to move out of their parents’ house at 18 to study in another city, whereas in Italy, we tend to stay with our families longer. I found the French approach liberating and empowering, and it helped me grow as an independent person.

Q: Did you face any language barriers when you first arrived? How did you overcome them?

Fortunately, I already had a solid foundation in French, thanks to my education in high school and previous trips. Still, there was a lot to learn. I carried a mini-vocabulary with me and would look up words whenever I needed them. It was a process that I found incredibly rewarding as I gradually became more fluent.

Q: Can you tell us about your social life at the university? Did you join any clubs or organizations?

Absolutely! In my first year, I joined the volleyball club, which turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. I met people from three different universities, and it was such a great experience to exchange ideas and make lasting friendships. I also got involved in social events with international students, which allowed me to broaden my circle.

Q: How did you find making friends with both French students and international students?

At first, I spent a lot of time with international students, but over time, I made wonderful friendships with French students as well. I was struck by their generosity and sense of belonging, and it helped me appreciate the depth of French culture.

Q: Can you describe a memorable experience or event you attended at the university?

One unforgettable event was the “Aperitif des Voyageurs.” It was a meet-and-greet where a couple shared their stories of traveling through Asia and Africa. They even brought insects for us to taste! It was a quirky, fun event that allowed me to bond with other students and learn about unique cultures.

Q: What was your favorite city or place in France, and why?

My favorite place in France is Montpellier. It’s in the south, between Toulouse and Marseille, and it’s known for its beautiful architecture, blending the ancient and modern. Plus, it’s only a 40-minute tram ride to the beach, which was a great escape after a busy week of studying.

Q: Can you share your experience of living in a French dormitory?

Living in the university dormitory during my second and third years was one of the best experiences. The rooms were comfortable, and I had the chance to meet so many students from different backgrounds. Sharing the kitchen and facilities helped me build friendships that I’ll treasure forever.

Q: As an international student, what challenges did you face living in a foreign country?

One of the biggest challenges was navigating bureaucracy—understanding all the administrative processes was a bit overwhelming at first. But over time, I became more confident in handling these tasks. The overall experience, though, was incredibly enriching.

Q: How did studying in France shape your personal growth and worldview?

Studying in France expanded my worldview immensely. I became more independent and open-minded, and I gained a deeper understanding of different cultures. It gave me a broader perspective, both academically and personally, and I feel more prepared to face the global challenges ahead.

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering studying in France?

My advice would be to go for it! France is a wonderful country to study in, with a rich culture and inclusive society. It opens up many career opportunities, and it’s a great place to grow as a person. Don’t hesitate to immerse yourself fully in the experience.

Q: If you could go back, would you choose to study in France again? Why or why not?

Without a doubt, I would choose France again. In fact, I’m planning to return and hopefully find a job there to settle permanently. France has become a second home for me, and I’m excited for what the future holds.

Letizia’s experience in France highlights not only the importance of embracing new cultures but also the power of stepping outside of your comfort zone. Her journey is a testament to the personal and professional growth that can come from studying abroad.