Submitted by Liana Flikier on the 2013 fall semester program in Paris, France…
It is officially two days until I am en route to my home for the next 3.5 months in Paris, Franc. People keep asking me if I’m nervous. Nervous is not exactly the word I would use. I am so excited and anxious for the day to finally be here. Of course, there are things I am nervous about: “Will my host family like me? Will I be able to find my way around a new city? How do I avoid being pickpocketed? “…. I am not worried about culture shock and I have bought plenty of black clothing to try to disguise myself as a young French woman. I haven’t exactly started packing yet, but there is a nice big empty suitcase sitting next to a huge pile of clothing, host family gifts, shoes and toiletries. Tomorrow will consist of packing, making photocopies of important papers, and eating lots of froyo which may or may not be available in France.