Submitted by Bridget Miceli on the 2020 winter session study abroad program in Paris, France sponsored by the Department of Biological Sciences…
Right before I started my journey abroad in Paris, France as part of the Biology program, I was quite nervous and worried, not about the program itself, but the adventure it held. Growing up living in Brooklyn in the early 2000’s my mother grew quite tired of flying during my early childhood which resulted in me never being on a plane until now. Although I have traveled a lot within the U.S. I have never taken a large journey like the one this program offers. Although I was nervous about this program, I was simultaneously excited to be getting on a plane for the first time and taking an adventure that even my mother wouldn’t do. I have always been excited to explore another place in the world and could not wait to immerse myself into the French Culture. Right before I left, it seemed like a dream to finally be able to see another part of the world and see famous landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Arch de Triomphe, in person.
Now being in Paris for almost a week, I am slowly, but surely getting adjusted to a temporary new way of living. I was definitely hit hard with jet lag and I am still struggling with my sleep cycle. There are many other challenges I faced during this first week. Both the food and the kitchen arrangement is quite different than what is found in America. Everything here tends to be fresh, the bread, cheese, fruit and vegetables are not found in large quantities like in a regular super market, but in much smaller portions. In addition, there is no oven, so making simple American comfort food is just not an option at the moment. Along with physically adjusting to new living arrangements there is a transportation strike occurring, so only about half the trains are running; this makes going to class interesting, but all of the administration on this program are doing an amazing job at advising us the best ways to get to class.
I came into this program not knowing any of my roommates or the other students, but in about one day we have all become significantly close and include and welcome everyone in any activity whether its walking to class together, getting lunch together or simply exploring the beautiful city we are ever so lucky to be living in. We have made a few spur of the moment field trips as a group to the Louvre, Eiffel Tower and even the Catacombs (even though they were closed). This is just the beginning of an amazing program and I know that it will get better and better as each day goes by and I cannot wait to spend it with the new friends I have already made.
