Postcard From … Alex Pola in France

By Amelia Heymann

Study abroad programs are a hallmark of Virginia Commonwealth University's commitment to experiential and global education. "Postcard From …" is an occasional VCU News series that connects with students for insight into the academic, cultural and life lessons they are learning amid their travel.

Give us a quick personal bio.

I'm a rising senior from Winchester in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. I'm a mass communications major with concentrations in both in public relations and media production in the Robertson School of Communication in the College of Humanities and Sciences, and I'm doing a minor in marketing in the School of Business. I'm studying global and international marketing abroad.

Why did you choose your location and program?

In all honesty, it was the only study abroad I could get credit for, but it worked out perfectly because I love Paris. My dad is French and lived in Paris, so being here for a prolonged amount of time has allowed me to be in touch with my culture.

What do you hope to learn or gain by studying abroad?

I'm hoping to improve my French, as well as my global perspective and sensitivity to other cultures.

How is your experience making you a better student/person or changing your world view?

I don't know if I've become a better student, because my mind does tend to wander about what escapade I'm off to next, but my worldview has definitely changed. Being here for a long time and seeing how the French live is something I could get used to, especially with America's work and life balance being so harsh. The French can have the desire for individualism, freedom and a life that is fulfilling, which I can definitely say has made me embrace myself more. It stays with me every time I visit Paris, but it just strengthens the foundation. I'm feeling that a lot on this trip.

Was there a big culture shock or challenge?

I haven't run into many culture shocks, as this is my seventh time in Paris, but something that baffles me is not being able to eat from 4 to 7 p.m. because the French eat so late. Most likely because the sun doesn't set till almost 11 p.m.

What has surprised you about your experience so far?

How freaking hot it is this summer! Paris had just hit a record for the hottest day they've ever recorded. I've been to Paris in the summer, but this heat is unlike anything I've ever experienced, and of course, there is no AC here. Real French Struggle Summer, huh?

What's been your favorite food there?

Bœuf bourguignon. Even if it's hot, it's still my favorite French comfort food.

Tell us about a moment that has stuck with you?

Ironically, it was outside of Paris. I had the opportunity to visit London, and it was amazing. My friends and I went on the spur of the moment, and we were able to see the royal family and the majority of central London. I was able to get tickets to "The Devil Wears Prada" musical on the West End, featuring Vanessa Williams, and I met her at the stage door after the show! My family and I are big Vanessa Williams fans, and it was a very lovely moment for me.

What advice would you give to someone who is on the fence about studying abroad?

Put away TikTok recommendations and just live. Find the restaurants, the shops and the attractions you want to see because you want to see them - not just what's going to make your Instagram feed look cute. I use TikTok for some great recommendations, but when you are here, you see lots of Americans all doing the same thing on vacation. The best places I've found were on spur of the moment or by word of mouth from people I met. Paris has so much to offer, and you will only do a disservice to yourself by wanting the same experience everyone else has/had.