Erasmus Experience in Paris, France by Elizabeth

Why did you choose to go to Paris, France?

Perfect question!

Just for the language! I'll be gone soon :) (just kidding!)

So it all began while I was waiting for the next university entry, some five years ago. I had a long time to wait, and I didn't want to sit at home. It was suggested that I studied a langage, so playfully I registered for French, (which was extremely difficult) and in about four months, I could have simple conversations, and I had also acquired a DELF A2. My teachers told me I had a gift, but "we" wanted to do other "big" things. :) Yeah, I totally forgot about French when I got into the university, although I left that school declaring that I would return, speaking French, like a French girl.

Three years later, I was on my way to China. (Like yeah, I know right? :)) I was there to study manderin for a year. Everyone wanted to know if I'd finally dumped French for Manderin. (Seriously?? Why would anyone dump French for Manderin???) I was struggling with French for heaven's sake. Manderin? This was just a whole new story! I was even terribly afraid I was going to mess up my opportunity (because it was a scholarship) so I told myself, "If you do ok in this language, there wouldn't be any language you wouldn't speak, if you decide to learn it." With that, I took myself to China, and came out successfully, with the boldness to begin my adventure. I've always dreamt of traveling around the world, and learning different languages and cultures, but I was too scared to admit this dream was way much daring and adventureous, (cooler too :)) than becoming a Lawyer, or a Diplomat. (Which were my major fields at that time)  

So anyways, while still holding on to Diplomacy and Law, I received another opportunity to come study in Paris. I knew it wasn't coincidence, because I knew I was going to go back to French language. What I didn't know, was me, letting go of people's opinions, ( Diplomacy et al) and living my dream, the dream way.

I did not choose to be in Paris. Five years ago, I made a declaration, and heaven recorded it! So here I am, on my journey to "speaking French like a French girl".

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

There are lots of scholarships, and they vary in amount, conditions, and time. For me, it was as long as I could maintain a CGPA of 2.99. No living costs included.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

It varies. I'm a part time worker! (A lot of us are, and a lot of us are not) For my kind, it's a lot of "work". There's probably more "play" for the others

Would you recommend the city and the University of Paris to other students?

Yeah, I would; but you've got to be ready to "work, work, and work!" or please come with a lot of money :)

What is the food like?

The best thing that keeps us going

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Paris?

yap! Terribly

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

For an average living cost, here's a rough estimate For a month:
Rent - 400€
Feeding - 150€
miscellaneous - 50€

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

As long as you put your mind into Learning it :) Im a language lover, and I believed I would easily go through, so I am. (or you could say I proclaimed it :)) Although, I  believe if we put our mind into anything, we'll definitely achieve it. Yeah, you can study languages at the University

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Paris from your city?

We've got a direct metro where I am. You could use the train too

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Paris?

The cinema :) (I'm a movie freak, so it's the only place I go. ha!)

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Paris?

Sorry, can't remember! I like to try out new places everytime. They always turn out good :) (True Story)

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Apart from the Eiffel Tour right? Hmm a lot! haha "The louvre" is my favourite place though.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Paris in the future?

Be prepared for "the Bises!" :) and come with a lot of light! (Godly light please)