Technically I lived in Noisy-le-Grand which is in the suburbs just outside the central Paris. Since it is a part of Île-de-France and only half an hour away though, I’m just going to say Paris from now on.
I have spent my exchange of four months studying art culture and management at ICART (L’école du management de la culture et du marché de l’art). The school is a part of the private higher education institution Groupe EDH that offers design and communications studies not only in France but in America.
I chose to study in English because I wasn’t confident enough in my French skills, which unfortunately turned my studies here into a bit of a side quest. Instead of animation, 3D-modelling and printing, and graphic design, I have had courses about advertising culture, history of photography and the concepts of creativity and innovation. Not to worry though, as I still have gotten to learn about topics that truly interest me, such as the French language and negotiating – amazing courses with amazing teachers!
My courses have been theory-heavy lectures that range from 1h30-3h and they can take place at almost any time of the day, from 9am to 20pm. The flexible hours are a fresh breath of air that leave plenty of time to enjoy Paris. What was a huge letdown for me as a Finnish media student, was the use of AI for creative tasks because exchange students there didn’t come from art creation schools but the communication side of things. The endless group tasks were also not really my cup of tea – but that’s honestly just me being me.
But perhaps the greatest difference in student life here is well… the seeming lack of it. Typically, the French students that share courses with exchange students do their own thing and we do ours, so the two don’t really mix. Because of this, I have spent my spare time sightseeing and walking around Paris – discovering the beautiful Haussmannian architecture and visiting the various monuments and museums that such a culturally significant place as Paris has to offer. The city is a haven for street art as you can find phenomenal pieces of street art behind almost every corner. My absolute favorite places to visit have been Arc de Triomphe, La Tour Eiffel, Jardin du Luxembourg, and Place Vendôme.
Paris and France are also famous for its gastronomy so you bet it has been wonderful to try out different bistros, crêperies and pâtisseries, knowing that whatever you try will taste delightful! In fact, I often like to leave for school a little early so I have time to grab lunch from a nearby boulangerie. Most restaurants too are highly rated, but if you don’t happen to be in the mood for a dinner outing with friends, there is an enormous selection of fresh local ingredients to cook with in near every store. If you are a busy student like me however, you will find joy in the vast offering of ready-made meals and even a frozen food store -chain called Picard whose products range from fish sticks to macaroons. Crêpes continue their reign as my favourite food, but I also really enjoy tartalette citron meringuée, confit canard and tartare!
What’s more, I’m very lucky to have been able to continue volleyball here. I joined two clubs and have even gotten to play in matches with the team! We played very well during the season, but unfortunately my playtime was cut even shorter due to a knee injury in a match. Still, practicing my precious hobby here has been a blast and it is via my awesome team that I met my few French friends – it’s not the quantity but the quality, and these dudes are the best!
The exchange journey has had its ups and downs as any period of lifetime. Thankfully, I can say that I am happy with my experience and have learned plenty not only about France and Paris, but also about living life and adapting within a new culture. I’m already looking forward to the next time I visit Paris – even after four months there is still so much yet to see!
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