Valerie Partida ’27

Program: France Semester

Major: Psychology

Minor: Art

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you decide on this program?

When I came to CSB and SJU, I knew I wanted to study abroad. I actively looked at the programs available with a focus on psychology, and I was drawn to France immediately. I already had experience learning French for roughly nine years, and I wanted to develop it further. The fact that I would also be working on my degree requirements made the deal even sweeter! The location of Montpellier was perfect, too, as I have experienced Paris before and did not want to spend a whole semester somewhere I already knew. Overall, my heart called for Montpellier, and I decided to take the leap and answer it.

Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your program that made a lasting impression.

My most authentic cultural experience in France was dining with my host parent’s family! To be able to witness genuine expressions and behaviors in French with authentic cuisine, something I would not be able to experience in the USA. I felt so welcome by the host’s extended family, as they invited me into their conversations and made me feel included.

Based on your experiences abroad, what are some of the benefits of spending a semester abroad? How has studying abroad contributed to your personal, academic, and professional development?

Academically, I took three psychology classes and two French courses. It was incredible to learn about psychology in France, as I discovered that culture does influence behavior and cognitive processes. As for my French courses, I had my advanced French class and my internship class. I was reluctant at first to take a French class, as I had already completed my language requirement. However, actively practicing French in public did require some practice in the classroom. My internship class was taught entirely in French, and it reminded me that I was actually absorbing French.

My personal goals were to develop my French further and to make connections between my Mexican culture and French culture. I found that being with a French host family helped me reach these goals, as we often spoke in French and I was able to acknowledge French customs because of them.

Professionally, I had an internship at an art program called “La Petite Academie.” I had the opportunity to work with kids in French, teaching them about the color theory as well as blocking and other art techniques. I was able to build on skills regarding children psychologically and in the creative processes. This also helped me concentrate my energy on my art minor, as I was not taking any art courses at the program center.

What advice can you offer for CSB+SJU students who are considering or planning to study abroad?

You won’t regret it! There is no time like now to explore the world and study abroad. There are financial resources that you can qualify for, and you get credits for your major/minor! Initially, it is a little nerve-wracking being in a country with a different culture than ours, whether that be in just customs and/or in language. It is okay to take your time and adjust. Studying abroad is a big thing and you want to give yourself a lot of grace. 🙂