My first week with the France Business program has been exciting and full of culture shock. I expected differences in language and transportation, but I wasn’t prepared for the more subtle cultural contrasts.
In the U.S., we often live by a “work hard, play hard” mentality. Here, people seem to live in a constant state of calm. Meals are long and relaxed—dinner can last three hours because waiters won’t bring the check unless you ask. People sip coffee quietly and keep to themselves. My friends and I quickly realized, as we walked and talked through town, that we were often the loudest people on the street.
I also assumed that most people would understand English. Growing up in the U.S., it’s easy to think others relate to our way of life. But while many French people study English, most don’t practice it regularly, so adapting to the language and customs has been challenging. Even small things like eye contact and smiling feel different. People here often avoid both, whereas back in College Station, it’s second nature to be friendly to strangers.
Still, some things feel the same. Couples show affection, kids act silly, and small talk still happens. A few kind people have helped us when we were lost, and that’s reminded me that no matter where you go, someone is usually willing to lend a hand.
This first week has shown me that we’re more different and more similar than I expected. It’s been eye-opening and rewarding.
