For my STEP signature project, I spent six months in Dijon, France studying at the University of Burgundy in order to become fluent and learn more about French culture, current events, and France’s relationship with the United States.
On my arrival in France, I was prepared for the many changes that were about to take place, but I never could have anticipated just how much I would grow during my time abroad. The largest difference I notice in myself is my ability to adapt and place myself in situations outside my comfort zone in order to grow. Learning a language isn’t easy, and although I had studied French before the move, being immersed in both language and culture brought challenges. These challenges taught me that growth is impossible without vulnerability and risk, and the only life worth living is one where you step into spaces that necessitate both.
In addition, my view of the world grew enormously as I began to understand the similarities and differences between French and American culture. One of the best decisions I made during my time abroad was choosing to live with a host family that didn’t speak English. This experience gave me first-hand insight into their daily life and provided an opportunity to compare and contrast both cultures. By the end of my six months in their home, I was able to appreciate aspects of both cultures that were vastly different, while also understanding that regardless of culture, the human experience is similar everywhere.
Some of the largest transformations I saw in myself were due to being immersed in French culture by way of my French host family. At the beginning, I found it difficult to fully detach from my home culture and dive into their way of life, but it ended up being one of the best points of growth, not only for my fluency, but personally as well. Every meal we shared together was an opportunity to discuss current events, our daily routines, customs and traditions in our native countries, and more—as the weeks and months passed, these relationships blossomed and today, they are some of the dearest friendships I have.
Along with my host family, the opportunity to travel every weekend broadened my horizons and contributed to my ability to adapt and be flexible when things didn’t go according to plan. Traveling can be very stressful, especially when going to a place where you don’t speak the language or understand the customs. With each country I visited, I found myself becoming more and more comfortable with not knowing everything or being able to anticipate every move but figuring it out along the way and not being afraid to ask for help. This ability to recognize that I will not always have it together has been instrumental in my personal growth. I believe now, because of this experience, I realize the value of making mistakes and giving yourself grace to learn from them.
These large developments have greatly impacted my future personal and professional goals because they have grown me into a person that sees a larger world. Now, looking forward to graduation, my scope has widened and I am considering moving back to France full-time to continue living where I do best—in between cultures.