"I met amazing people from all walks of life, each bringing their own perspectives and experiences. These interactions expanded my understanding of the world and helped me grow as a person."

Studying abroad in Paris was a goal I’d nurtured since I began my studies at Columbia. Yet, as the time to leave approached, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The thought of navigating a new culture was intimidating. But diving into this new experience ended up being incredibly rewarding and helped me grow in ways I hadn’t expected.

One of the most transformative aspects of my time on the Columbia Summer in Paris program was the classes I took. I enrolled in two classes that really stood out to me: “France and the African Diaspora and “Cinema of the Arab World.” These classes provided me with a lens to explore cultures and histories that were previously unfamiliar to me. The African diaspora course, in particular, was eye-opening. I traveled to Nantes with my class to visit the Musée de l’Histoire des Ducs de Bretagne and the Mémorial de l’Abolition de l’Esclavage, where I learned about the stories of African communities in France. These experiences were profound, allowing me to understand the connections between culture, history, and identity.

The “Cinema of the Arab World” class was equally enriching. We looked at how global film styles have influenced Arab storytelling, giving us a wider view. A visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Lyon added to this experience, connecting the films’ themes with other art forms. This course helped me understand how film can tell important cultural stories that are meaningful both locally and worldwide.

A delicious array of pastries
Beyond the classroom, my time in Paris was marked by a culinary adventure that I never expected. Coming from a background where food has always been familiar, I took the opportunity to explore Paris and beyond through its diverse cuisines. I tried everything from traditional French dishes to Moroccan, Lebanese, and West African foods. Each meal was a journey into a new culture, teaching me that food is not just sustenance but a bridge between people and their stories. Trying these different foods also pushed me out of my comfort zone, making me more open to new experiences, which has positively influenced how I approach both life and psychology.
My time in Paris taught me the value of stepping out of my comfort zone. I met amazing people from all walks of life, each bringing their own perspectives and experiences. These interactions expanded my understanding of the world and helped me grow as a person. I learned that discomfort is often the first step toward growth, and by embracing it, I was able to build meaningful connections and memories that I will cherish forever.

Thanks to the Global Learning Scholarship, I could focus on my studies without financial stress. This support allowed me to dive into my coursework and fully enjoy the cultural experiences Paris and nearby cities offered, including a visit to Bordeaux to soak in more of France’s culture.

My time abroad was not just an academic journey but a deeply personal one. I returned with a broader perspective and a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures. Studying abroad in Paris was more than just an opportunity to learn—it was a chance to discover who I am and who I want to become. For that, I am forever grateful.