A New Life

La Belle Vie

This semester has been very different from all of the previous semesters I spent in New York. As a native, I never had to adjust to a new place when going to college, so this was my first attempt. At times, it was difficult, depressing, and draining, but at others, it was exhilarating and joyful. Participating in the Art of Travel helped me adjust to life here through weekly reflection.

Originally, I questioned whether or not I should return to Paris next semester, but ultimately I decided that it was the best choice. After having to adjust to a new place for the first time, I don’t think that I’ve experienced Paris in a significant way just yet. I am excited to afford myself the chance. The last couple of weeks here, I’ve been feeling a lot more settled than I have for a long time. In fact, I am a little bit nervous about going home for the holidays. I know that living in Paris has changed the way I function and I worry about how it will affect my relationships when I return.

That being said, I really appreciate the way Paris has affected me over the last few months. I appreciate little quotidian pleasures much more now, like the smell of a boulangerie early in the morning or the taste of hand-made pasta. NYU in France has been really amazing because the program really encourages you to explore the culture of Paris, while maintaining a safe community oriented atmosphere. I think that when I finally return to the US for good, I will appreciate New York so much more for what it has to offer culturally.

Everyday in Paris I feel as though I face my fears head-on. I don’t worry so much about fitting in, and favor growth instead. I encourage everyone to study abroad because it really forces you to break out of your shell and grow socially and emotionally. It’s an incredibly rewarding experience to walk blindly into a new life and come out a stronger person for it.

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