Go for it! #HogsAbroad in France

No matter where you are in your academic career, if you have the desire to study abroad, go for it! Yes, most people do go during their undergraduate years, but take me for example… I didn’t go until after graduating with my master’s degree at the University of Arkansas. I had been taking French since high school and I really wanted to study abroad in France, but it just wasn’t possible for me until after I finished my studies. I found a program in the South of France, Aix-en-Provence to be exact, and I decided to enroll independently after graduation. Since I took supplemental French courses during my master’s program, I decided to talk to an adviser to see if I could re-enroll as an undergraduate because why not get a bachelor’s degree while I was at it? I remember feeling nervous that it might not be possible, but to my surprise, there was no impediment at all! Once I re-enrolled, I realized I was eligible to apply to the study abroad scholarships. I took advantage of the opportunity, and I was awarded the Office of Study Abroad scholarship! I was so happy when I got the news because it felt like everything was coming together.

My time in Aix-en-Provence was definitely worth it. Its size is comparable to Fayetteville’s, so it felt like I was home. Because it’s a student city, I found a lot of cute little coffee and tea shops where I would often go to study. I made several friends from all over the world as my school had students from many different nationalities. Outside of school I took advantage of the region’s natural beauty by joining a local hiking group. Through this group, I met a lot of locals and two of my best friends in France. My favorite outing was when we hiked up a mountain at night to see a lunar eclipse! I also attended weekly language exchange meetings that helped me progress tremendously in French. Being involved in the community is also important for me, so I volunteered at culture exchange workshops at after-school associations around town. I would teach French kids and teens about Mexican and American culture and they would teach about France.

Of course there were times in the beginning where I felt lonely; after all I didn’t know anyone yet and it was my first time living abroad. Still, even when I did feel that way, I never regretted my decision. I pushed myself to get out there and meet people and so I did! Studying abroad is all about pushing your limits and stepping out of your comfort zone. Yes, it can be difficult in the beginning, but that shouldn’t stop you from exploring the world! Like me, maybe you’re nervous or unsure about where to start, but the good folks at the Study Abroad Office will help you get on your way. Bon voyage!

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Ariana spent the 2017-2018 academic year in France at Aix-Marseille Université with the help of our our Office of Study Abroad Scholarship.

Don't miss your opportunity to study or intern abroad! Start your search at http://studyabroad.uark.edu/search/