By Janeen Louis
When I first landed in Paris, I thought I knew exactly how I wanted my semester to go. I had dreamed about studying abroad for years, and I had my goals lined up: study hard, improve my French, and travel as much as possible. I spent the semester in Paris through ISEP, and what unfolded over those months was more than just an academic exchange. I thrived on being busy, on chasing the next goal. What I didn’t expect was that Paris would gently teach me something different: how to slow down, to savor life more fully, and to see the beauty in the everyday.
Broadening my horizons in the classroom
I studied at a American Business College Paris, an experience completely different from my psychology courses back at Howard. At first, I felt out of my element. The topics were unfamiliar, the structure was different, and I had to push myself in ways I hadn’t before. But slowly, I began to appreciate the challenge. I found myself thinking in new ways, analyzing problems differently, and stepping outside the academic bubble I had grown comfortable in. Studying business not only stretched my mind, but it also gave me tools and perspectives that I know will serve me well in the future.
At the same time, my desire to learn the French language and culture came alive in ways no classroom back home could replicate. Ordering food, chatting with locals, and even asking for directions, these daily interactions became my favorite lessons. I wasn’t perfect (and definitely made mistakes along the way), but I found joy in the process of learning, and people often appreciated my effort. I still remember one afternoon at my local boulangerie when I stumbled through ordering a baguette. The woman behind the counter smiled warmly and gently corrected my phrasing. By the end of my stay, she greeted me like a regular. That small exchange became a reminder that language learning is less about perfection and more about connection.
Paris as a teacher
Paris itself became one of my greatest teachers. Back home, I was used to rushing from meeting to class to event, but here, life moved differently. I learned to slow down and savor things: wandering through museums on a quiet afternoon, lingering over coffee at a café, and watching the city light up at dusk.
Some of my best memories aren’t from big trips or famous landmarks but from the small, ordinary moments: a spontaneous picnic along the Seine, journaling while people-watching, or laughing with friends in a café. Paris showed me that life doesn’t always have to be about the “next thing”; sometimes it’s about being fully present where you are. I discovered that the most meaningful lessons didn’t come from textbooks, but from slowing down enough to notice the world around me.
Building community across cultures
Another gift of this semester was the community I found. Studying abroad placed me in a group of students from across the world, each with their traditions, stories, and perspectives. Together, we navigated cultural differences, shared meals, and explored the city. Those friendships reminded me that even when our backgrounds differ, there is so much that connects us.
I also connected with locals in small but meaningful ways. Whether it was a shopkeeper who remembered me, professors who shared their insights, or neighbors who offered a kind smile, these interactions gave me a sense of belonging in a city that can sometimes feel overwhelming. These moments of connection taught me that community doesn’t always have to be big; it can be built one small, genuine exchange at a time.
A new perspective
Of course, there were the big, breathtaking highlights too: standing under the Eiffel Tower as it sparkled at night, climbing the steps of Montmartre to watch the city spread out below, and taking weekend trips to see other parts of France and Europe. Each adventure expanded my perspective and gave me memories I’ll treasure forever.
But when I look back, what stays with me the most are not just the grand experiences, but the ordinary ones that became extraordinary because I was truly present. The walk to my local bakery each morning, the routine of strolling by the Canal Saint-Martin, the laughter echoing in a student kitchen, all of these moments taught me that joy can be found in the smallest details, if only we slow down enough to notice them.
If you’re considering studying abroad, my advice is this: go with an open mind, and let the experience change you in ways you don’t expect. Don’t worry about doing everything “right.” Instead, let yourself learn, stumble, connect, and reflect. The big adventures will be unforgettable, but it’s often the small moments that will shape you the most.
Thank you, ISEP, for this amazing opportunity, and thank you, Paris, for being everything I dreamed of and more.