ADDISON LOUTHIAN

On January 16, 2022, I traded classroom instruction for seven months of cultural immersion in Montpellier, France. I chose to study with the University of Minnesota and their Language and Culture of Southern France program due to the emphasis on both culture and language. I wanted to make the most of my time in France and learn as much as I could about its history, people, and places. Prior to embarking on this new experience, I had no idea what to expect. I had spent around ten years studying the French language in a classroom setting, but had never put my knowledge to the true test of communication with native French speakers on a daily basis. I was filled with anxiety, but overwhelmed with excitement. 

Upon reaching the city, I was able to adjust within a couple of weeks and have consistency within my routine. I attended Université Paul Valéry, an international liberal arts college within the city. I, along with my fellow program students, were placed into French-only instructed classes with true French students. Although these courses were extremely challenging, they allowed me to push myself and work harder to gain an understanding of the country in which I was living. However, I also wanted to take advantage of being immersed in European culture and take advantage of seeing all of the neighboring countries and how they differ from France, and ultimately my own home country.

During my four months of classroom instruction, my friends and I were able to take weekend trips to thirteen European countries and even one African country. Seeing the beauty, diversity, and history of this world taught me more than I ever thought possible. Not only was studying abroad beneficial for my growth as a French speaker, but it was ultimately the most beneficial journey that I could have asked for in a sense of self-growth. I connected with places that I never imagined I would see and people that I never imagined that I would meet. To this day, I consistently communicate with my former classmates, international friends, and my internship coworkers that I consider as my French family.

When I landed in France, I had no idea what my internship placement would be or what my working days would look like. Luckily, my program coordinator recognized my passion for both fashion and art, and worked with me to find the perfect internship that would include both of these passions in addition to French language immersion. This job hunt ultimately led me to my Agnès b. Family. Agnès b. Is a Parisian clothing brand that has grown immensely on the international stage. Not only does the company value well-made and timeless pieces, but it also has an art gallery with different artist exhibitions every few weeks. Luckily, during my time at the Montpellier location, we hosted works from English artist, Charlie Bonallack. Because of this, many English speakers were attracted to our store which allowed me to challenge myself professionally and practice translation skills so that the store’s employees were able to communicate with our customers, as well as our featured artist and his team. 

After I had completed my internship hours and my courses in May, we were able to leave France and head back to America. However, I was nowhere near ready. I had not anticipated wanting to stay prior, but I knew it was what I needed to do in order to truly challenge myself. My program coordinator assisted me with finding housing and from May 18, 2022 to July 1, 2022, I was completely on my own. This challenged me to make connections with French speakers, but to also find comfort in being alone. I traveled around France alone, as well as a couple of other countries. I was able to experience the world in a different way on my own and I have since become more confident and spontaneous because of it. 

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While I anticipated a 'cultural shock' of sorts, the differences between French and American culture faded with time. The French operate their lifestyles in a 'work to live' way rather than the American 'live to work' mentality. French people value their professional lives, but do not fail to celebrate the freedom and leisure of their personal ones. While this was the most significant 'shock' or transition that I had to adapt to, it made me favor the value that the French place on the health of their people. They are less likely to experience burnout in the workplace and more likely to be content with their life balance. This is something that I hope to carry with me throughout my career in the future.

Studying abroad in Montpellier has catalyzed my career path and my sense of urgency to get back to the city that allowed me to make these conclusions about myself and my dreams. Additionally, I have become much more confident in my French speaking abilities, especially in a professional setting. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity, and even more grateful for the opportunities that it has given me to this day. I now know exactly what I want to do, what I need to do to get there, and where I want to go to do it. Vive la France!