Paris: Blog 1

Although I did not attend the Amsterdam leg of the trip, I did see a few pictures from the other students. Because of this, I really want to experience the scavenger hunt. Given the limited time we have in Paris, I believe that touch-and-go activities like this are a great way to maximize our experience and identify key spots to revisit if I ever decide to come back on vacation. I am not a very adventurous person, but I wish to become more comfortable taking risks and stepping out of my comfort zone, so I believe that navigating the metro system will also help me with this goal.

I hope to feel productive but not stressed. I have many goals and dreams for myself, both career-wise and recreationally. By coming to Paris, I hope to fully understand that these are the beginning stages of realizing my dreams and learning the things that will help me become the person I want to be. I want to create practical solutions that are accessible to everyday people. Through working on these projects, I hope to acquire the key skills necessary to undertake such projects on my own in the future.

I am most excited about visiting the historical sites. I have always been a history nerd and have loved Paris and the castles surrounding it. I know that I tend to get quite excited when I visit historical sites, especially actual castles. Therefore, I hope to take the train and visit as many castles as possible to learn more about the rich Parisian history. This knowledge inspires me when I write historical fiction and helps me gain a better understanding of the lifestyles of past eras by experiencing these glimpses into history.
I plan to master the metro system and navigate it well (its not looking so good). I want to plan my weeks and days with a decent amount of preparation while also mixing in spontaneity for an overall top-tier study abroad experience.

The Navigo card is a little frustrating cause it doesn’t like to take my money. Like please just let me buy the ticket!! Hopefully that will figure itself out though.

Lastly, I want to create the memory of taking happy pictures with friends. I love photos and dislike when they feel forced or uncomfortable. For me, taking candid or goofy photos with peers is a priceless experience that I aspire to have. Whether it’s at the Eiffel Tower, a chateau, or a coffee shop, I hope to capture great quality photos that I can print out and cherish as much as I enjoyed the moment.

Also Fountain de la Concorde must see my face, I’m just putting that out there. Me and those fountains have had a connection from across the Atlantic so I am so so so ready to see them!

I also have a goal of bugeting well and not being tempted by every sweet that passes my way. So far it has not been working well… I am eating 2 mochis while writing this so pray for me.

I feel like an actual blogger.

Till the next one 😉

Le Metro!