I arrived in Strasbourg a few weeks ago and I have to say it truly felt like a culture shock. The first day of travel was as I anticipated with multiple delays and long rides, but what I didn?t expect was for one of my checked bags to go missing for over a week. Luckily my second luggage with my bedding, toiletries, and a few sweaters arrived. I was also thankful that a French student picked me up from the train station and showed me how to use the tram and bus stations since I live pretty far from the school and inner city. Even though traveling was a hassle, the next day after orientation, I got to explore the city on my own and the entire time I was in awe. Strasbourg?s Grande Ile, which is the main city and includes le Petite France, is small so it was easy to explore. The Germanic architecture mixed with French life was a truly unique experience, and it was then I knew I would love my study abroad.
I will admit it took me a while to get used to the French classes, with all of them being at least three hours long. Sitting through those can be boring, even with the short breaks, but I usually only have each class once or every other week. Although, every week my schedule changes, with different rooms or some classes end even in early March or April. Typically I have classes only 2 days a week which is a really nice change, and it gives me a lot of time to travel, participate in sports, and just wander around the city with friends.
One of the things I had to get used to is not being able to understand what most people are saying since I know very little French. I?m able to read it for the most part, but at shops and talking with students I only speak very broken French. But the wonderful thing about Strasbourg is that everyone I?ve talked to has been understanding and kind, they try to help me in any way they can.
But one of my favorite parts has been the food here! Surprisingly the meals at the university are cheap and of good quality. I was even able to try duck for the first time on campus. Then there?s the sweets they bake, where it doesn?t taste sugary, only natural sweetness like fruits. And of course, being in France I have to get baguettes from the bakery every week, it?s probably the French way thing I can do, but it feels really normal to do so.
Overall, Strasbourg was difficult to adjust to, but I?m so excited that I did it. It isn?t like I expected at all, especially with the new wave of Covid mandates, but every day feels like an adventure, even if I?m just going to class or shopping. I can?t wait for what the next three months have in store for me!
