I can’t believe we’re finally at the end. It’s hard to say what my lasting memory of this program will be. I think my experiences in and out of the classroom impressed me. I was able to challenge myself to experience the engineering design process for the first time, but my time spent in the city was just as valuable. Seeing all the sites and checking off bucket list items was so crazy, and I’m so glad I got to do it alongside all of my friends here.
During this program, we met so many unique individuals, all with incredible backgrounds. As we spent time working with Yousra and our design challenge, she definitely is the one person in this program that has left a mark on me. I think I will look at the world with a different lens with accessibility in mind. Of course this program as a whole did a lot to contribute to this new lens but being able to talk with Yousra in person and learn about her personal experiences was special.
One of the days I vividly remember in Paris was this past Friday. Breakfast, like always, was from Kayanes. Poulet sandwich and something sweet from Monsieur Pusco. 6 Rue de Lucas headed to class and post-class, Taofeekat and I embarked on an adventure. We ate dinner and visited the prettiest mall, Galeries Lafayette! The terrace has amazing views of the opera house and, of course, the Tour Eiffel (I’m so french!). We also visited the Arc de Triomphe and watched the Eiffel Tower sparkle from Trocadero. There we may or may not have spent the best euro of our life on five low-quality Eiffel Tower keychains. I can’t help it, I am a tourist after all. After our excursion, we were able to witness the tourist eiffel sellers run from the police and enjoy a delicious crepe. Strawberry Nutella for me (a classic) and Caramel Whip Cream for Taofeekat! It was hot in the crepe shop because Europe does not believe in AC ;( and we were craving a little sweet treat (when are we not??). After walking around all day, the crepe disappeared in 3 seconds flat. The strawberries balance out the sweetness of the chocolate. It was definitely one of my favorite eating experiences in Paris (besides Little Vietnam and Kayanes and all the other yummy spots!).
I think the iSeed Experience can be what you make of it. There will be ups and downs and a whole lot of fun. I think there’s something for everyone. I’ve met some really fun characters during this experience and experienced so many different things. Do things for the plot! LOL. Be open to new experiences because there are things you can only experience in Europe (and it’s so much more fun with friends!).
I can’t choose a favorite Paris experience but I think going to the boulangerie every morning and talking with Pusco is definitely a highlight!
With love,
Cheers and au revoir!
Jenny