Content contributed by Vincent Trometter, studying International Relations. Read more about Vincent’s semester in Paris below.
I took part in the IES Paris Business and International Affairs program. Choosing this program fulfilled all of my academic needs to keep me in line with what I want to with my career. My major is International Relations, I am interested in exploring business as a minor, and my second language is French. IES Paris BIA gave me the opportunity to fulfill all of those because it was a strict business and international relations program and was in France. I made my decision because of this. I decided to go in Spring 2015 because I wanted to see Paris in spring!
I would really like to work for the OECD once in my lifetime. One of my professors worked for the OECD and him and I fostered a good friendship. I hope to continue that friendship and maybe expand on it in the future. If not, I have been given the experience and the knowledge to pursue more goals on my own with full confidence. Studying French has opened up the possibilities for working in many other NGOs and multinational organizations because of how widely used the French language is in the world.
From the College of the Liberal Arts, I received enrichment funding. One thing I would tell students who are considering studying in Paris is that you will never understand the Paris fashion so do not obsess about fitting in because you most likely won’t. Just try your best and be comfortable and confident. As long as you ACT Parisian, you will be ok! Do it, do not hesitate. Find a way and make a plan financially and emotionally.
Studying abroad actually improved my overall GPA. I have to say, I worked harder on my studies than ever before when I was over in Paris. The teachers really pushed you to your utmost capabilities which I appreciated. Other than GPA, I learned so much that cannot be checked on a college transcript. Meeting new people and discussing their viewpoints is something I will cherish more than anything.
My favorite memory has to be the first time I took the metro back home from school. My metro line was line 6 from Tracedero to Montparnasse. It is a very scenic commute that goes over the Seine and gives you a wonderful view of the Eiffel Tower and Invalides. When I saw the sun setting and the sun shining on the waters of the Seine with the Eiffel Tower overlooking it, I knew Paris was right for me.
Interested in studying abroad next Spring? Spring applications are due May 1st. All Liberal Arts students studying or interning abroad are eligible for Enrichment Funding. To learn more, please schedule an appointment via Network Symplicity or email Jackie Smith,Global ExperiencesCoordinator (jds54@psu.edu)