Q1. Please introduce yourself.
Hello, I am Jung Min-joo from the Department of French Language and Literature. I am double majoring in International Trade due to my great interest in trade and relations between countries. Now, I finished my exchange studentship and am attending a language school in Lyon, France.
Q2. Why did you choose France?
I chose here because I wanted to live in the country to experience French culture and improve my French, which is my third language. Honestly, I considered taking language courses from the start as a single semester did not seem enough to master a language, but I was not sure where to take it. However, after my time as an exchange student in Paris, I felt that the city was more of a place for travelers. Therefore, I decided to learn French in Lyon, commonly called “a city for students.”
Q3. How is your life in France?
It is very different from life in Korea, but I am enjoying my time as it is. Whenever I encounter discouraging situations, I have learned how to simply brush them off and think of them as good experiences. Also, I have learned how to challenge myself to try new things. I am doing things I have never done in Korea, such as recklessly walking into a restaurant and handing in my resume to get a job. I try to make foreign friends and experience various cultures and viewpoints. Lastly, my favorite activity is traveling, so I try to visit countries near France as much as possible by saving expenses, even by cooking cheap spaghetti.
Q4. Do you have any advice for students coming to France as exchange or international students?
Living in a foreign country without the presence of family and familiar surroundings requires a lot of courage. In France, we unwantedly become social minorities just because we are foreigners – and especially Asians – which can be tough at times. The administrative procedure here is also very complex and slow. Despite such difficulties, you should never give up or be discouraged. Instead, I hope you foster everything you want during the most beautiful moment in your life – do not be afraid to wear that cool outfit and confidently ask for what you want!