Make Connections, Explore, Relish Daily Life in Aix-en-Provence

Odelia Satchivi, a Healthcare Management student at Indiana University, studied abroad in spring 2020 at Aix-Marseille Université.

What made you choose to study in France?

I have a deep connection with the French language and French culture as my family is originally from the Ivory Coast and Benin, two Francophone countries in West Africa. I saw studying in France as an opportunity to improve upon my French skills, as well as a way to connect with my parents as they both completed their education in France. I wanted to experience a portion of what their life in France was like during their young adulthood. I also saw it as an opportunity to explore a different culture and way of life, in hopes that I would bring back the positive aspects of French culture and ingrain into my own life. 

What was your favorite thing about studying in France?

The more relaxed and calm way of life that I experienced in southern France. I truly enjoyed walking everywhere and the accessibility of grocery stores, boutiques, and other important locations. By walking everywhere, life didn't feel as chaotic and I was able to take the time to enjoy the city and relish in the little moments of my daily routine. Taking a stroll through the city is something I still miss and I loved being able to go to a café after class or meeting friends at an outdoor restaurant and feeling comfortable and relaxed. Daily life was very easy going and that is something I appreciated and have started to implement into my own life. 

Briefly describe your experience in France during the COVID-19 outbreak and, looking back, how that impacted your experience or how you reflect on your experience now that it was cut short.

COVID-19 was an afterthought for the majority of my time in France, yet as it began to spread within France and other European countries it became a waiting game of when our program was going to send us home. Especially as I saw peers in different countries get sent home very abruptly. However, while coronavirus cut my time abroad short, I am extremely grateful that I didn't hold back and took the time to explore so many different countries, cities, and cultures. Yes, I am disappointed that I couldn't spend more time in France, but I have so many fond memories that I wouldn't trade for anything in the world. While coronavirus led to my program to end abruptly, it did not put a damper on the memories and the connections I formed. 

Any advice for future students in France after COVID or hopeful messages?

Enjoy every little moment and take the time to thoroughly explore the city and region that you are in; you never know when your time abroad will end. Don't hold back or you'll regret it.