Why France? How I Moved Abroad: Part I

Written By Desirae Brown

Since I have been able to think about my adult future, I’ve wanted to live abroad; it has always been my dream. When I began taking French courses as a language requirement at my university, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed learning the language of love. Don’t get me wrong, French 101 was not easy and classes didn’t get easier as I progressed however that’s what I loved most. The challenge, the necessary discipline, and watching myself progress as I continued to improve my skills made me feel accomplished, determined and wanting more of le français. 

Going into college, my pulsing interest in travel led me to Global Education Oregon, or the Division of Global Engagement office at my university. Here, I inquired about different French study abroad programs that would allow me to complete my second-year language requirements in one summer. I would kill three birds with one stone; get my foot in the door as avid world traveler, complete my degree requirements and practice my French with real French people, nonetheless. So, during my second year at the University of Oregon, with only one term of French under my belt I focused on submitting my study abroad application and applying for scholarships to fund my summer. After waiting impatiently and checking my email viscously, in February 2018 I learned of my acceptance into a four-week intensive language program in Angers, France!

The intensive program was based in Angers, but we took weekend trips to Normandy and Paris. Still today, my favorite location in France is Le Mont-Saint-Michel. Mont-Saint-Michel is a small island and community with a church the towers over the small community. This location was the first excursion of the summer and when I looked towards the island, I thought Wow, I’m really here. In France, across the ocean. I often had these thoughts and the feelings that came with them. It’s those feelings that left me wanting new, unimaginable experiences more and more every day. 

My summer in Angers was amazing. My host family was the absolute best (I plan on visiting them while I’m living in Lyon this year). My roommate was awesome, and we still chat from time to time. Living and learning with France as my backdrop for four weeks was nothing short of magnetic four my soul. I got lost in Angers daily, finding petits cafés, wine bars, and even castles on the corner of city streets. When my four weeks were finished, I continued to explore Europe with my Dad, but those four weeks à Angers left me longing for more of the beauty, charm and life in France. 

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Desirae Brown
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