So far, one of the most rewarding parts of studying abroad in Strasbourg, France has been the way people connect with each other. Picture yourself settling into a seat at a cozy café terrace, the kind with a dozen tiny round tables and woven chairs that spill out onto the cobblestone street. You’re surrounded by a dozen conversations in the most passionate French, hands gesturing and voices rising and falling. Even without understanding every word, you can feel the energy. A presence different from back home. Here, conversations feel less rushed and more intentional. Whether it’s chatting with a local barista or a conversation while browsing a vintage market, I’ve learned to slow down, listen more, and really be present. Being in this new country has helped me grow a lot, both personally and professionally.
When it comes to how business is done here, there are definitely a few things that stood out. First, everything is a bit more formal. Whether it be greetings, manners, or the way people carry themselves, everything is done with a sense of courtesy. Finally, I’ve noticed there’s a big emphasis on work-life balance. Lunch and dinner are much longer, ‘being in a rush’ is nonexistent, and clear boundaries exist between work and leisure time.
One of the biggest surprises for me has been how important greetings are. I’ve learned to always say “bonjour” when I walk into a room, a store, or really anywhere; if you don’t, it’s considered rude. Another surprise? Dinner can last hours! People really take their time, and conversations around the dinner table are animated and engaging. I thought I had a good sense of how daily life is in France, but actually living it has changed a lot of my expectations and perspectives. All in all, this experience is one you truly can’t pass up and eye-opening in the best way.
