Columbia University HiLi has given me opportunities I never imagined. When I moved to Paris in 2019 for the program, I didn't think I would stay for more than a year, especially through a global pandemic. However, at every step in my academic journey Columbia Global Centers and the HILI staff have been incredibly supportive and encouraged me to continue my research and make the most of my experience in Paris.
While COVID-19 interrupted my second semester at Reid Hall, I still managed to connect with professors and fellow students. After graduating from Columbia, I chose to stay in Paris for an M2 at Université de Paris I. Throughout the past year like so many other students around the world, I have adapted to hybrid learning. The friendships and connections from Reid Hall have been extremely helpful in doing so.
Strangely, COVID has given me the time to immerse myself even more in France. While typical cultural events have been limited, I've been able to discover new parts of Paris and France, develop deeper relationships, and overall enjoy my life in Paris. I have no regrets in my decisions to study and live in Paris. Rather, I am filled with gratitude to the university for providing such a unique and exciting opportunity.