So I have completed orientation and at last my first week of classes, which all happen to be in french. My first couple days here were great but also challenging. I never realized how dependent I have become on my car to get me to anywhere I want to go. Here in Paris, I use the metro system to get me to my desired destinations. Of course, I researched the metro system before my arrival only to find that pick pockets often occur and that some people will even snatch your bags right before the doors close and run off. I suppose all of my reading up on the metro system made me terribly nervous about using it, but to my pleasant surprise, I have not encountered such a thing yet. I do know that I have to be alert at all times and that I can never fall asleep no matter how long the ride is.
I think the metro system was one of the most intimidating things for me, but I am happy to say that it is now behind me. With my time here, I have set some goals for myself for my semester abroad.
Firstly, in order for my french speaking ability to improve, I need to really immerse myself in culture and language. With that being said, one of my goals is to speak french at all times with my new peers, my host family, and in all my classes. I know that there will be days where I will get tired of expressing myself in french, but I believe it is a great way to improve my french. The other day I realized that that I was thinking to myself in french, and after I noticed that, I got extremely excited that in my mind I can process thoughts in not only english but now also french.
My next goal is to attempt to create a strong bond with my host mom. I know that she is great resource for learning about the French and Parisian culture and lifestyle. There are many times so far where I am just in my room and I am not sure when it is the right time to make conversation, but I know this is also part of my own timid nature. I have to push myself to make conversation and be outspoken.
Another goal of mine is to join a club or a group, as a way to make new contacts and make friends with the locals. There is one club that has caught my attention "Le Club International des Jeunes à Paris". This club has fun excursions and even has activities where local parisiens come in to improve their english while they help the international people with their french. I want to be more involved and make sure I do not waste my time here while in Paris.
So far I am loving my time abroad and I feel so lucky and blessed to be able to experience this.
This was in ally in a shopping district called "Les Marais". It caught my attention because of the english wording but also the neat art.
