"Academically, the program pushed me to see neuroscience in a new light, far beyond what I had encountered in the classroom."
Participating in Columbia University’s Global Neuroscience program was one of the most memorable experiences of my academic journey so far. Thanks to the Global Learning Scholarship (GLS), I was able to fully immerse myself in both the rigorous academic curriculum and the vibrant cultural life of Paris.
Academically, the program pushed me to see neuroscience in a new light, far beyond what I had encountered in the classroom. The program combined lectures from professors and world-renowned researchers, as well as visits to interesting sites like Hospital Sainte-Anne. Engaging directly with researchers working at the forefront of brain science allowed me to deepen my understanding of neural mechanisms and cognitive processes, and to connect theoretical concepts with their real-world applications in meaningful ways.
Living and learning in a different country also pushed me to adapt, grow, and step outside my comfort zone. Getting used to the daily rhythm of a new culture improved my communication, made me quicker at solving problems, and gave me a real appreciation for different ways of seeing the world. The friends I made along the way made the experience even better and turned my network into something truly global.
One of the memories I will always cherish is meeting my friends each morning to take the RER B to Reid Hall. Once we arrived, we would have breakfast together before the start of classes. In the afternoons, after our academic sessions ended, we would set out to explore Paris, whether it was walking through the Luxembourg Garden or wandering the streets of the Latin Quarter and Le Marais. These moments, big and small, made the experience feel alive and unforgettable.
I am truly grateful to the Global Learning Scholarship for making this journey possible. It has shaped not only my academic trajectory but also the way I see the world, and I look forward to applying the lessons I have learned, both inside and outside the classroom, for years to come.
