Renata

“I made many friends at UPEC.”

Published on July 1, 2013 Updated on January 13, 2015
Renata
Home country : Moldavia / studies in Romania
Training :
ERASMUS student in 2nd year of Foreign Applied Languages
Hobbies :
debating, law, economics, learning languages
Speaks:
French, English, German, Russian

Aka “the missing Moldavian girl”




What are the main differences you observed between UPEC and your university?
In terms of teaching methods, I would say people in France participate more. I enjoyed being able to express myself and contribute to the courses by exchanging and making presentations. In Romania, courses are more focused on translation and interpretation, while UPEC teachers insist more on subjects like economics, international relations etc. which really got me interested. It may seem peculiar, but I noticed French people don’t ask many questions in general. I like that.

A funny story about your stay?
Once in English Economics, I answered a question and the teacher paused before observing: « You speak a lot ». And it’s true I always have something to say!
My friends and I decided to have a trip in Normandy. The thing is, I was 15 minutes late and people in the bus had started worrying about “the missing Moldavian girl”. When I arrived, somebody yelled: ‘Oh, there she is! The missing Moldavian girl!’ Kind of awkward.

Spare time in Paris?
I had a lot of spare time, so I was free to work or just sip a coffee at a terrace. Whether it’s the museums, the gorgeous gardens, or the clubs, you’re never done with experiencing Paris. I really enjoyed skating in front of the Hôtel de Ville. We did a lot of picnics and sightseeing too. In fact, you never know what the day is holding, because there’s so much to see.

What did you gain from your stay?
I met a lot of people from all over the world, and mostly, I learned to adapt to a whole new environment. It wasn’t difficult to fit in, and I’ve made many friends at UPEC since I arrived, 3 months ago. All in all, I’ve learned way more than I could have by myself. And although it’s only been a trimester, this exchange program with UPEC was so full of experiences it feels like a year!

A tip for foreign students?

Umbrella. Never forget your umbrella in February.