Cafes, Libraries, and How to Handle Studying Abroad
The First Weeks of Excitement and Uncertainty
The first couple of weeks of a study abroad program are a total roller coaster of emotions. As an incoming STEM student, I arrived with a mix of excitement for the summer and uncertainty about the challenges ahead. In my case, I was amazed by Paris; each of its arrondissements offered a new possibility for discovery with its own unique customs and stories.
Getting to sightsee one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris.
On the other hand, the first weeks can also be quite grueling. Between feeling homesick and not fully grasping the French language, meeting new people can feel overwhelming. These two conflicting experiences sweep you up quickly. Before you know it, you remember that you also have to keep up with rigorous academic coursework.
A Moment of Realization
As I struggled to find my place in this experience, the academics caught me off guard. I was taking Multivariable Calculus (Calculus III), a subject that requires intense focus. When I opened my first few assignments, I realized I didn't understand the problems. I had been so caught up in exploring the city that I hadn't paid enough attention to the lectures.
I had to take a break from sightseeing and put my mind toward the class. Even though I managed to finish that first assignment after a few days, I was worried that my program experience wouldn't be what I hoped for if I couldn't deal with the class. I feared I wouldn't have the chance to explore the city if I stayed "on top" of my work. This was the moment I realized I had to seek help; there was no use in being frustrated alone.
The Helping Hand: Learning to Ask for Support
In my case, the helping hand for me was Ludovic Chamoin, my calculus professor. He was a Parisian through and through, born and raised in the city. On the first day, he told us to ask him questions about studying or getting adjusted to Paris. I approached him after a lecture and explained my dilemma.
He took the time to listen and explained that this struggle is common for all students abroad. He insisted that I shouldn't have to choose between the classroom and the city; on the contrary, studying was actually a great way to improve and discover the city. Professor Ludovic provided three key pieces of advice that changed my summer:
- The Coffee Shop Strategy: He suggested traveling to different cafes to work on assignments while seeing the city and experiencing the daily Parisian coffee customs.
The CEA CAPA Network: He reminded me that the CEA CAPA staff are always there and open to help students who are struggling.
Open Communication: He encouraged me to email him with any doubts regarding the class or recommendations for Paris, no matter how small they seemed.
Thanks to his encouragement, I settled down and planned a routine for the rest of the program as I felt much more confident in my ability to push through and have an incredible experience.
Visiting the historic Palais Garnier opera house after a study session was done for the day.
The Coffee Shop Tour and Parisian Libraries
After my talk with Professor Ludovic, I started exploring different cafes. Not only did I get work done, I also managed to enjoy great coffee and pastries from all around Paris; each cafe offered its unique touch. Without realizing it, I toured many arrondissements and saw places that tourists rarely mention. I found a perfect balance between studying and sightseeing.
Refueling at a neighborhood café while working through calculus problems between lectures.
Exploring the city and finding an underrated photo spot.
I also discovered public libraries, which offered comfortable, free places to study. Through these spaces, I interacted with Parisians and heard about their own experience as students and got to tell them about my own back in the States. Getting to know Paris as the locals live it was one of the most fulfilling parts of my time abroad. Most importantly, I lost my fear of approaching professors and staff. They continued to guide me all summer with travel recommendations and academic advice.
Exploring authentic Parisian cuisine with a classic steak frites and escargot dinner recommended by my professor.
The Return to the University of Michigan
Now that I am back at the University of Michigan, I realize that this lesson is part of my everyday life. I no longer fear asking for help from professors or university staff. Whether I am in office hours or sending an email after class, I know that people are open to answering questions and hearing me out.
Thanks to Professor Ludovic, I gained the confidence to ask questions and never back down from a challenge. Asking for help was the best decision I made during my time abroad. I encourage every student to ask their "dumb" questions and try new things, even when it feels uncomfortable. You will always learn something valuable from those moments.
This post was written by Juan David Lee Castillero, an Alumni Ambassador from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor who studied abroad in Paris, France.
