"My experiences as a Kenyan in Paris—navigating different cultures, grappling with identity, and exploring global issues—have equipped me with a unique perspective that I now bring to the study of the universe."

My name is Melnick Nebart. I am a sophomore at Columbia College and I intend to major in Astrophysics. In the summer of 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad on the Columbia Summer in Paris program, a journey that not only expanded my academic perspectives but also deepened my understanding of my identity and aspirations. As a Kenyan student at Columbia University, I had the privilege of studying abroad in Paris, France—a city rich in history and culture very much similar to Nairobi, Kenya.

Melnick standing in front of the Arch in Paris
Growing up in Kenya, I was always curious about the world beyond the borders of my hometown. It all brings me back to 2021 during Covid break when I had decided to learn a couple of phrases in French, “just in case” I found myself in France,” for some reason”. Little did I know that Columbia University would be a factor in making that dream come true. Therefore, my decision to study abroad was fueled by a desire to immerse myself in a different culture and to gain a more global perspective on issues that are central to some of my academic interests.

As a first-generation low-income background student, the Global Learning Scholarship played a crucial role in turning this dream into a reality. Without this financial support, I would not have been able to afford the costs associated with studying in one of the most vibrant cities in the world. The scholarship not only covered my tuition but also provided me with the freedom to fully engage with the cultural and academic experiences that Paris had to offer.

The classes I took were intellectually stimulating and aligned perfectly with my interests in migration and cultural studies. In the "Film and Cinema in the Arab World" course, we explored how filmmakers from the Arab world represent their societies, cultures, and histories through cinema. This class opened my eyes to the power of film as a tool for social commentary and cultural expression. I was particularly struck by how these films portrayed migration—both as a physical journey and as a metaphorical exploration of identity and belonging. As a Kenyan, these themes resonated deeply with me, reflecting the rich cultural mosaic of my homeland, where different communities and narratives intersect in unique ways. The discussions were rich and thought-provoking, often continuing outside the classroom in the cafés of Paris, where my classmates and I would dissect the latest film we had watched or debate the finer points of cinematic technique.

The "Migration in France" course was equally impactful. Here, I learned about the complex and often contentious history of migration in France, from the post-colonial era to the present day. The course included site visits to neighborhoods in Paris that have been shaped by migration, such as Belleville and La Goutte d'Or. Walking through these areas, I could see firsthand the layers of history and culture that define them. As I walked through these areas, I couldn’t help but think about my own journey—from a small town in Kenya to one of the most prestigious universities in the world, and now to the streets of Paris. These experiences deepened my understanding of how migration has influenced French society and reinforced my understanding of migration as a crucial global issue.

Melnick with friends in Reid Hall
Beyond the classroom, my time in Paris was filled with memorable experiences. One of my favorite memories was visiting the Parthenon in Greece, a side trip I took during a break in the program. Having studied the Parthenon in my Art Humanities class at Columbia, seeing it in person was surreal. The grandeur of the ancient structure and the history it embodies left me in awe and further fueled my interest in exploring the intersections of art, history, and culture. Standing before the ancient structure, I was struck by the idea of time and space—how civilizations rise and fall, how structures endure, and how, despite the vastness of the universe, everything is connected.

Studying abroad in Paris has had a profound impact on my academic and career goals. My experiences as a Kenyan in Paris—navigating different cultures, grappling with identity, and exploring global issues—have equipped me with a unique perspective that I now bring to the study of the universe. The adaptability, open-mindedness, and cultural sensitivity I developed during my study abroad experience have become invaluable assets as I delve into the challenging and exhilarating field of astrophysics.

The Global Learning Scholarship not only enabled me to study abroad but also set me on a path I hadn’t anticipated. The fact that visiting France was such a huge risk since I knew very little French, made the experience more exhilarating. Experiencing this new world with a language barrier, despite already being able to speak three other Kenyan languages besides English, was an interesting experience. My time in Paris taught me to embrace the unexpected and to be open to where my passions might lead me. Now, as I look to the stars, I do so with the confidence that I am pursuing a field that excites and challenges me, one that will allow me to contribute to our understanding of the universe from a perspective deeply rooted in my Kenyan identity and understanding of the world.

In conclusion, my study abroad experience in Paris was transformative, both academically and personally. The Global Learning Scholarship made it possible for me to embark on this journey, and I am incredibly grateful for the support. The knowledge and experiences I gained will continue to influence my studies and career aspirations, making me a more informed and compassionate global citizen.