Studying Abroad

I studied Chemistry at Texas University. When I graduated, I decided to learn a foreign language. I chose French because I heard many people around the world speak French, so I thought it would be useful.  A friend who was a student in Paris recommended that I study French there. An important part of the course involved in studying abroad. Well, at first, I didn’t really know which country to go to, but one day I saw a TV show about France. It looked like a great place to visit, so that’s where I went!

When I got to France, I was nervous because it was my first time abroad on my own. However, everyone at the college was really friendly and welcoming. On weekends, they took me and the other new students to visit a lot of fun places. They also organized activities so we could meet the local people. Our French teacher was really good, too.  In Paris, I stayed with a host family as it was more economical. My four months there were the best of all. We spoke French all the time in class! I found it very hard at first and sometimes got annoyed because I couldn’t understand everything. However, it was a very effective way to learn and actually, by the time I left, I was fluent. That’s why, a year later, with a degree in French, I found a job in France. I started working for a perfume company in Paris. Nowadays, I can’t believe how lucky I am. Paris is such an interesting and romantic city to live in, and I really enjoy my job. What’s more, shortly after settling here, I met a French girl named Caroline. Six months ago, we got married! For me, studying abroad was an amazing opportunity to socialize and become friends with people from all over the world. It gave me some fantastic insights into different cultures. But it also gave me a great job, a new life. I would recommend the experience to everyone. ­

Kevin Gardner