It was really half a year ago that I began my relationship with Bordeaux and its inhabitants.  I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to meet Clementine and Gaelle last semester. They were exchange students from Bordeaux Ecole de Management in Bordeaux, France. During their time at the University of Louisville, I did my best to share my hometown with them and its culture. I also learned a lot about their country and lifestyle. It was such a rewarding experience because building relationships with people from different cultures was the main reason I got involved in studying abroad. At the time, I did not realize how greatly meeting our Bordeaux guests would impact me.

Now that I am the exchange student in Bordeaux, I really appreciate the guidance that Clementine and Gaelle give me. Every time I have a question, I can call Clementine and ask her for advice. As an international student here, it’s so comforting to know I have someone who understands the local manners and can answer my questions.

This spring Clementine and Gaelle are both interning in Paris. Aurelia and I went to visit last week and had a wonderful time. Clementine was a great host and so nice to show us all around Paris. We were only there for a short time but we saw so many things. My favorite thing to do in Paris is to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower at night. It may sound cliché but Paris is a gorgeous city and the view is breathtaking. Before leaving, Aurelia and I were able to have dinner with Clementine and Gaelle. It was an excellent Bordeaux-Louisville reunion and I felt so blessed to be able to maintain international friendships. I have so far found my exchange experience greatly rewarding- it’s more than I could ever ask for!