Bonjour, Gators!
I’m writing from Paris, France, where I’m a master’s student in Environmental Policy at Sciences Po. I moved to France in August 2022 after graduating from UF with a major in Environmental Science and a minor in French. My initial post-graduate plan was to take a gap year and participate in the TAPIF program, teaching English abroad, while I applied to grad schools in the U.S. I envisioned last year as a brief stint in France, an opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture, explore new horizons, and practice my French. However, as time went on, I found myself slowly falling in love with France and life abroad.
My plan evolved, and I decided to shift my focus toward French graduate programs. Eventually, I found a program that was a perfect fit, allowing me to blend my background in environmental sciences with my passion for French culture and language. Looking back after a year, I am more convinced than ever that staying in France was the right choice for me.
I highly encourage any Gators considering doing a stint abroad to make the leap of faith and see what’s out there. Moving to France changed my life, and I look forward to the opportunities and adventures ahead here in the City of Light.
À bientôt!