Spending eight weeks in Paris, France as a website development intern was one of the most rewarding and challenging experiences of my life. While I was excited to live in one of the world's most famous cities, I quickly realized that working abroad would require me to adapt in ways I had never expected.
One of the biggest challenges was the language barrier. Although many people in Paris understand some English, communication was not always easy. I also had to adjust to my supervisor's communication style, which was different from what I was used to. There were many moments when unexpected situations happened and left me feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Looking back now, however, those experiences have become some of my favorite stories, and I can laugh about them.
Another thing that surprised me was how different French culture felt depending on the region. In Paris, people seemed to live a fast-paced lifestyle and were often in a hurry. Later, when I visited Nice in the south of France, I noticed a much calmer and more relaxed atmosphere. Experiencing these differences helped me understand that culture can vary greatly even within the same country.
After about three weeks, I felt fully adjusted to life in Paris. One thing I grew to love was the metro system. Before studying abroad, I disliked walking, but Paris changed that. I found myself walking more than 10,000 steps each day while exploring neighborhoods, historical landmarks, and museums. What started as a necessity quickly became something I genuinely enjoyed.
My favorite memories came from both traveling and personal growth. I especially enjoyed exploring Paris on my own and discovering new places throughout the city. Another unforgettable experience was taking a six-hour train ride with friends to Nice. The trip was planned at the last minute, but it turned out to be one of the highlights of my summer. The beautiful scenery, beaches, and time spent with friends created memories I will never forget.
This internship abroad helped shape both my education and career goals. It taught me adaptability, independence, and how to work professionally in a new environment. I also learned how to navigate challenges on my own, make meaningful friendships, and become more comfortable stepping outside of my comfort zone.
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Although I missed home while living in Paris, I now find myself missing Paris as well. The friendships, experiences, and personal growth I gained during those eight weeks will stay with me for the rest of my life. My time abroad showed me that some of the most meaningful experiences happen when you are willing to embrace the unfamiliar.
Chiraphinya Kong-im