Category: Academic Year Abroad

Group Project Blues

Published on by Catherine BakerLeave a comment

If, by the end of the year, you have not begun to despise group projects, then congratulations, you are better than me in a million different ways.

Although group projects are a good way to meet students who are from all over the world, or in my case, locals, I have come to realize that there are much better ways to make friends and meet the people you go to school with. One example, simply asking someone if they are looking for something to do over the weekend.

As an introvert, and someone who suffers from the fear of embarrassing myself, I have had to muster up the courage and complete group projects with international and French students alike. It has not been easy, and the journey is nowhere close to being over, but being forced into social situations (although hasn’t lead me anywhere socially), has allowed me to expand my academia and my resilience.

I hope that one day, my hatred for group projects fades away, however, I don’t think it will. And that’s okay. I’m okay with enjoying a long paper over standing in front of a crowd for 20 minutes. I’m okay with not wanting to be asked questions about a topic that I (probably) haven’t done enough research on to be an all-knowing expert on the topic.

This is just my opinion. I know that there are people who would prefer to go the presentation route, and I envy you for that. But also, be kind to those who need more time to settle into their role. Be kind to the people whose voices shake when the speak in front of the class. Some of us would prefer to write.

My favorite thing so far, despite my introversion, has been group travelling.

Airplane Airborne Illnesses

Published on by Catherine BakerLeave a comment

To be completely honest, I did not think that I would get sick while here. How I was so very wrong (and naive). Just like at the University of Denver, students in Rennes have the privilege of experiencing a mysterious cold that comes, seemingly, out of nowhere and will probably last until everyone goes home for the holidays.

Now, am I surprised that I got sick? A little. Am I happy that my parents suggested that I bring some medication from home? Very much so. I have never appreciated NyQuil and DayQuil as much as I have in the past few days. During the day, I can go about my business as though nothing is happening to me, and, at night, I can go to sleep at 9 pm and wake up at 8 am without a problem.

Now, I know that I could go around blaming the fact that it was probably the combination of the university, being in a new country, and the fact that I haven’t been sleeping well, however, it wouldn’t be fair of me to rule out the likely possibility of my illness coming from travelling.

At the time that my last post was uploaded, I was in Copenhagen visiting my friend. This time allowed for me to cherish how easy it was for me to get from one place to another without have to spend a fortune on airplane tickets. However, clearly, it came at a cost.

Despite the illness I contracted while I was 35,000 feet in the air, I very much appreciated the simplicity and accessibility of budget airlines such as EasyJet and NorwegianAir that can take me from one country to another for only around 100 euros. I think that this is one culture shock that I will continue to appreciate. The easy access to other places lets people explore cities and countries they would not have access to otherwise. I think that this ability leads to more understanding and a more open world where people can appreciate beauty in different cultures, histories, and adventures that are unconventional or overlooked.

Despite the ongoing, overly persistent cough, I think that being able to take these adventures is an honor and privilege that are, at times, overlooked and taken for granted. And if you’re planning on going abroad next semester, or year, pack some medicine, it will help.