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As my first semester studying abroad in Nantes, France, ends, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey so far. Moving abroad has certainly come with its challenges, but the lessons I’ve learned and the experiences I’ve had have far outweighed any obstacles. When I first arrived in France, I had the wonderful opportunity to explore the country by car with my mom. This initial adventure not only allowed me to ease into the cultural differences but also gave me a chance to start practicing my French right away.

At first, I was in the “honeymoon phase” of living abroad, where everything felt new and exciting, and the differences seemed minor—apart from the language, of course. Starting university marked the beginning of a deeper immersion into the culture, language, and daily life. Thankfully, I met many other exchange students navigating similar challenges. Together, we’ve supported one another, and these friendships have been invaluable. Some of my favorite memories so far have been the spontaneous trips I’ve taken to London, Vienna, and Prague.

Traveling is incredibly accessible here, and it’s fascinating to see how cultures vary even between cities. Transportation has become one of my favorite aspects of living in Europe; it’s opened so many opportunities to explore and learn. Looking ahead to next semester, I’m excited about the possibility of visiting friends I’ve met through Erasmus, some of whom will be returning home or moving to new destinations to study. It’s amazing to think about how much my network has grown and how connected my world has become.

Living in France has also helped me grow as a person, fostering a level of independence I hadn’t fully anticipated. Navigating life in a country where my family doesn’t speak the language has required resilience and resourcefulness, and I’ve learned to tackle challenges head-on. Overall, I’m deeply grateful for this experience. I’m looking forward to another semester filled with growth, adventure, and unforgettable memories. I would like to also add a very special thank you to the Speros Scholarship for making this incredible opportunity possible.