Reflections on France Study Abroad Experience
Kaitlyn Millner, a student who participated in the AHS 3003: Sustainable Approaches to Health in France course in Spring 2024, was recently awarded the Gerald B. & Catherine L. Fischer Study Abroad Scholarship through the Learning Abroad Center. Kaitlyn shared this reflection of her time in Montpellier as part of the scholarship process.
Upcoming Deadline: The deadline to complete an application for the AHS 3003 course in Spring 2025 is on January 27, 2025.
In May, I was fortunate enough to participate in a study abroad program, Sustainable Approaches to Health in France. We began the course halfway through the spring semester of Spring 2024 and then completed the course overseas for the remaining two weeks. Our group contained about 20 students, guided by two professors. We immersed ourselves in the culture, sustainable practices, and healthcare values of Southern France. The experience was not only an amazing chance to explore a new country but also an eye-opening journey into learning how sustainability and health are weaved together globally.
My First Impressions: Welcome to the Community
The trip began at the Citadines Apart'hotel in Montpellier. From the first evening's group dinner, it was obvious that this experience would go beyond just a little sightseeing; I looked forward to embracing the French way of life, this culture values community and shared experiences. I was so enthralled with how the French look at food, health, work, and life in general. One of the highlights early in the trip was the visit to the Antigone market. Strolling through the stalls filled with locals picking out their typical weekly selection of fresh produce, cheeses, and vintage treasures, I was in awe of the emphasis on local and seasonal foods. The square where the market operated was so full of life, it was so refreshing and provided a perfect preview to what I was yet to experience.
The Role of Nature and Traditional Values
The visit to Cévennes National Park was a memorable excursion that showed France's dedication to preserving their natural landscapes. The overnight immersed us in the blissful countryside. Hiking along the path of Robert Louis Stevenson, I was blown away by the region’s beautiful environment and the efforts to maintain its agro-pastoral landscape. The picnic by the river was a simple yet rich experience, emphasizing a slower pace of life that values nature and well-being. Our tour guide fed us food that he had grown or made with items from the closest market or the resources from his property. This contrasted with the lifestyle I am used to back home.
Education: A Cross-Cultural Perspective
The academic aspect of the program provided an in-depth look into the French social system and its approach to health and education. For me, one of the most impactful experiences was the Zero Waste workshop. It was inspiring to see the commitment of local organizations to reduce waste and promote sustainable living. The workshop taught me practical steps to implement a zero-waste lifestyle, we learned how to utilize old waste from around the house and give it another life as something totally different. It was a powerful reminder that sustainability is not only a large-scale issue but also a personal commitment that starts with small achievable actions.
Cultural Experiences: Food and Community
The French culture’s deep connection to food was another highlight of the trip. Whether it was tasting fresh oysters at the Bouzigues lagoon or trying tapas during the visit to an olive grove, I was impressed by the emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The visit to Château de Lascaux, a wine producer, was a incredible exploration of sustainable agriculture practices. The wine tasting allowed us to appreciate the intricate relationship between the environment and food production, reinforcing the importance of sustainable farming methods. We were able to see first hand how all the waste could be reused or put forward at all of these excursions.
Another unforgettable experience was the group dinner at Le Chat Perché on our final night. The meal was not just a chance to enjoy delicious French cuisine but also an opportunity to reflect on the journey we had shared. It was sweet to see how much we had bonded as a group, I found myself teary eyed from sharing stories and laughing, it underscored the value of shared meals. I think we were really fortunate to be able to feel this key aspect of French culture.
Final Reflections: Lessons in Sustainability and Health
As I reflect on this trip, I am struck by the contrast between the French approach and what I have observed in the United States. In France, there is a noticeable emphasis on community involvement and a more mindful way of living. Whether through sustainable gardening practices at Les Grisettes Community Gardens or the focus on local food at the markets, it is clear that health is seen holistically, it is woven in with environmental conservation and cultural values.
This experience has deeply influenced my understanding of sustainable health practices. It has made me more aware of the small, everyday choices that contribute to a healthier lifestyle and a more sustainable earth. In conclusion, the Sustainable Approaches to Health in France program was an enriching blend of education, cultural immersion, and personal growth. I came home with a broadened perspective on global health practices, a deeper appreciation for the importance of sustainability, and a commitment to incorporating these values into my own life. This trip was more than just a travel experience; it was a life changing exploration of how we can all work to make a healthier and more sustainable future.
I am beyond grateful for this opportunity and I am so honored that I selected to receive a donation towards bettering my education and expanding my worldly views. I hope this compact essay is able to show the large scale of just how much we were able to gain from this experience.