International Youth Exchange 2010-2011

Becoming an exchange student opens up your eyes

I think that becoming an exchange student is a wonderful opportunity to explore a new culture, language, and people. I am from Tunisia and have had the chance to study in France and the United-States. These experiences have really made a difference in my life. 
Living in France was a wonderful experience in terms of exploring the country's history, art, gastronomy and architecture. Paris is one of the most amazing cities I have ever lived in. It is just a fascinating and vibrating city with so many people from different cultures. An amazing feeling I had there was when I would walk these thousands years old Parisian streets, where you could feel that history has really shaped everything surrounding you. All the people I met there enriched my social experience and made me more tolerant.
Living in the United States has also been a great experience, I have lived in San Francisco, California for 4 years now. This city has similarities with Paris in terms of cultural diversity. Its hippy culture is one of the most interesting things I have discovered and the people are so open-minded, even more than in Paris.
Living abroad can be difficult but it can really open your eyes. For instance, leaving my parents made me realize how much I love and care about them. It has also made me stronger and more mature.
Overall, no matter where you choose to study abroad, you will always learn many things about the other's culture in which you live. You will become more independent, tolerant, and more appreciative of what you have and what life gave you.


Written by: Taysir El Abed