Anne found her time at Reid Hall to be a refreshing departure from Barnard's rigorous science curriculum. After a demanding schedule of chemistry and biology courses in previous semesters, she described her experience as "rejuvenating," especially enjoying her first art history class and writing papers on topics that piqued her interest.
A highlight for Anne was her 19th Century Issues in French Art History course, which included visits to renowned museums like the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay. However, the Gustave Moreau Museum, housed in the painter's former workshop, left the deepest impression. “It was empty and everywhere you looked were beautiful paintings,” she said, describing it as a “magical” experience with their professor explaining the artist’s life and history.
Initially grappling with homesickness upon arriving in Paris, Anne found solace in consuming familiar books and movies, but quickly immersed herself in French culture. Despite not living with a host family, she enhanced her language skills by listening to podcasts and watching French-dubbed TV shows. She recommends the Netflix series Lupin, and the French podcast La Semaine for weekly news updates.
Reflecting on her cultural immersion, Anne recommended engaging with older Parisians for a more authentic experience. She cherished moments spent with Parisian family friends during leisurely five-hour lunches, appreciating their hospitality and the unique ambiance of their homes. Anne also enjoyed interactions with younger Parisians, noting their kindness and patience with her French-speaking skills. Her classmates at the Sorbonne were particularly welcoming, fostering a sense of community during her studies abroad.
Navigating the structure of classes in Paris, Anne found the substantial breaks between sessions challenging. “Figuring out what to do with yourself is sometimes hard,” she admitted, encouraging students to be brave enough to explore on their own. She suggested places like Terre du Cafe in the 18th arrondissement for a cozy cafe experience that accommodates laptops, as well as indulging in the quintessential Parisian pastime of people-watching.
Anne had previously lived abroad, spending a summer in Grenoble and Nice doing anthropological research, and living in Morocco for three months during her gap year, but she found studying abroad with her peers to be a uniquely enriching experience. The structured program fostered a “sense of solidarity” among the students. She is looking forward to continuing her journey with the French language by adding it as a minor upon her return to New York.
