1. What has been the most rewarding experience, so far, of your France Study Abroad?
Interestingly one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had is becoming familiar with the owners of a local kebab shop. Another student and I went there late at night on a whim as it was the only place open past 11pm, and they were incredibly welcoming to us and made sure we knew how to order. The food was amazing and honestly cheaper than most places we’ve found which has also led me to go back 4 times in 1 week. Every time I’ve showed up they shake my hand and make sure my friends and I have a table set up. Despite them not being of French origin, it has bar far been my most positive and rewarding connection I’ve made with some one that lives here. I hope soon to ask them more about their lives and get to strengthen our connection even more.
2. What are 3 things have you have noticed about the way business is done in France?
For one, they are much straighter to the point. There’s simply a lot less like puffery and formalities, there’s more simple respect and figuring out what you’re both there to get. Secondly, along with the simple respect, it seems that business goes much smoother when you try to make an attempt to speak French or at least say “bonjour.” Despite just mentioning less formalities they care a lot about the beginning of an interaction. Lastly, there’s a general interest in the well-being in these interactions. Just a general kindness and sincerity in trying to get what each other need rather than anyone attempting to take advantage of anyone.
3. What has been the biggest surprise you have had so far in France. Was there something that you thought you knew, that is completely different than what you expected?
I would say about 75% of the people I’ve interacted with speak some amount of English. It was just genuinely surprising how many people speak a second language here. In the U.S. I know a significantly smaller proportion of people that speak a second language and it’s always a bit of a surprise when you meet someone who does, whereas here it’s pretty normal.
