大三出國、全英語課程 - 國際視野 : 淡江大學大三出國通報及學分採認系統

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2023大三出國輔導通報系統 - 留學心得報告[編輯]

政經 410820327 　邱育柔　　留學學校：巴黎西岱大學(法國)

(一)基本資料

Paris Cité University was formed by the merger of Paris Descartes University (Paris V) and Paris Diderot University (Paris VII), which was completed the year I went to Paris for an exchange program. The department I studied in was English and American Studies, the only department at Paris Cité University that offers courses taught in English. The curriculum mainly covers the history and literature of the United Kingdom and the United States, with a few additional courses in visual arts, political science, and gender culture, all taught in English. Paris Cité University also offers law courses in English, which students can choose to participate in based on their own French proficiency. Participation is optional.(114字)

(二)課程學習

【照片說明：學校其中一棟建築】

My favorite class was Visual Arts: Jane Austen Adaptation Films. This class is perfect for readers who love Jane Austen and are also interested in visual arts and novel-to-film adaptations. The professor appeared intellectual, literary, friendly, meticulous, serious, and highly passionate when discussing her field. In the first class, she asked us about our knowledge of Jane Austen and how many of her works we had read. She also reassured us that it was okay even if we hadn’t read any of her works before. The class atmosphere was excellent, with the professor often leading brainstorming sessions and discussions. If there was anything unclear or if we needed guidance, the professor was always very willing to help. After the first class, the professor asked us to email her. Upon learning that I was an exchange student without a background in visual arts, she gave me special attention and sent me some basic knowledge to help me better integrate into the class. I was very surprised by how attentively she remembered everyone's name. The professor's teaching style was interesting and engaging. She always interacted with us like a friend, guiding us into the world of Jane Austen. She would encourage us to reflect on whether we thought the adaptation was well done, why the director chose a particular actor, whether the costumes were appropriate for the historical context, and why the director used certain filming techniques. This approach was very beneficial for me. (243字)

(三)生活環境

【照片說明：宿舍內部環境】

Paris Cité University is located in the 13th arrondissement of Paris, on the left bank of the Seine River. From the school entrance and the student cafeteria, the Seine River comes into view. The 13th arrondissement is a relatively simple educational district with good public security and nighttime safety. Additionally, it is home to Chinatown, where homesick students can buy ingredients at Chinese supermarkets or dine at Chinese restaurants to alleviate their homesickness. (73字)

(四)自我成長

【照片說明：宿舍及學校附近輕軌站】

Language Barrier: Shock: Despite learning French before arriving, many Taiwanese students may find the fast-paced and colloquial French spoken by locals challenging to understand. This can make daily interactions, academic work, and socializing difficult. Solution: Engaging in regular language practice, participating in language exchange programs, or even taking additional language courses can help. Immersing oneself in the local culture by attending French-speaking events or watching French media can also improve language skills. Social Interactions and Friendships: Shock: Taiwanese culture tends to be more reserved and indirect compared to the more direct and sometimes assertive communication style in France. This can make socializing or forming friendships challenging, as the approach to making friends and expressing opinions differs. Solution: Understanding that the French value directness and learning to express oneself more openly can ease social interactions. Joining student clubs or participating in group activities can also provide more opportunities to make friends in a less formal setting. Dining Etiquette and Food Culture: Shock: French dining customs, such as the length and structure of meals, can be surprising to Taiwanese students. Additionally, the French diet, which often includes cheese, bread, and wine, may differ significantly from what they are accustomed to. Solution: Embracing the local food culture by trying different dishes and participating in communal meals can be a great way to adapt. It’s also helpful to understand and respect dining etiquette, such as the pace of meals and the importance of mealtime conversation. Academic Environment: Shock: The academic system in France might be less structured and more focused on independent thinking and debate compared to the more structured and teacher-guided approach in Taiwan. The emphasis on critical analysis and class participation might also be challenging. Solution: Adapting to this environment requires being proactive in studies, asking questions, and engaging in discussions. Seeking help from professors or peers when needed and utilizing university resources like tutoring or academic workshops can also be beneficial. Independence and Self-Reliance: Shock: In France, students are often expected to be more independent, whether in managing their daily lives or in their academic pursuits. This can be a significant adjustment for those used to a more supportive environment. Solution: Developing self-reliance by learning to manage time, budget, and other practical aspects of living abroad is crucial. Seeking advice from other international students or mentors can provide guidance and support during this transition. Perceptions of Time and Punctuality: Shock: The French approach to time can be more relaxed compared to the more punctual and time-conscious culture in Taiwan. This can be confusing, especially in social settings or even in academic environments where deadlines might be more flexible. Solution: Adapting to this cultural difference requires flexibility and an open mind. It's important to understand the context and adjust expectations accordingly, whether by asking for clarification on deadlines or being more patient in social situations.(474字)

(五)大三出國建議

Embrace the Language: Even if you’ve studied French before coming to Paris, the real learning happens outside the classroom. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes when speaking; the locals appreciate the effort. Take advantage of language exchange meetups, French films, and daily interactions to improve your fluency. The more you practice, the more confident you'll become. Be Open to Cultural Differences: Paris is a melting pot of cultures, and you’ll encounter people from all walks of life. Embrace the differences, whether it’s the way people greet each other, the slower pace of meals, or the importance of personal space. Keep an open mind, and instead of comparing, try to understand the reasons behind these cultural nuances. Plan and Explore: Paris is an incredibly rich city in terms of history, art, and culture. Make a list of must-see places, but also allow time to explore the city spontaneously. Don’t just stick to the tourist spots; venture into lesser-known neighborhoods, visit local markets, and take part in cultural events. This will give you a more authentic experience of Parisian life. Balance Study and Experience: While academics are important, don’t forget to make the most of your time outside the classroom. Engage in local events, join student clubs, or take up a hobby. This is your chance to grow not just academically, but also personally. Managing your time well will allow you to excel in your studies while also experiencing the unique opportunities Paris has to offer. Stay Organized and Independent: Life in Paris requires a good level of independence and organization. From navigating public transport to managing your finances, being organized will make your life easier. Make use of apps and resources available to help you with everyday tasks, like budgeting tools, transportation apps, or event calendars. Connect with Locals and Other Students: Building a network of friends from different backgrounds will enrich your exchange experience. Don’t just stick with other international students; try to connect with locals as well. They can offer insights into French culture that you might not get elsewhere. Also, participate in social activities organized by your university, as these are great opportunities to make friends. Stay Curious and Open-Minded: Paris is a city of endless learning opportunities, both inside and outside the university. Whether it’s trying new foods, visiting museums, or engaging in discussions with people from different cultures, staying curious will help you make the most of your year abroad. Every experience, good or challenging, is a learning opportunity. Take Care of Your Well-being: Being away from home for an extended period can be challenging. Make sure to take care of your mental and physical health. Stay connected with family and friends back home, but also build a support system in Paris. If you ever feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek help, whether from the university’s support services or a counselor. Document Your Journey: Keep a journal or a blog to document your experiences, thoughts, and learnings. Not only will this be a great way to remember your time in Paris, but it will also allow you to reflect on your growth throughout the year. Plus, it can serve as a valuable resource for future students who want to learn from your journey. Be Patient and Enjoy the Process: Adapting to a new environment takes time, so be patient with yourself. There will be challenges, but each one is an opportunity to grow. Enjoy the process, and don’t stress too much about making everything perfect. The memories you create, the friends you make, and the experiences you have will be the true highlights of your year in Paris.(613字)