In spring 2024, I spent three weeks in Bordeaux, France, thanks to the Erasmus+ programme. Every day I went to school there with local students. I stayed with Lucile, who had previously spent three weeks in our home and went to our school. I am glad that my mobility was in the form of an exchange. It gave me the reassurance that I would always have someone to turn to, and Lucile and I already knew each other from her stay with us, which helped a lot with my nervousness when arriving in a new environment.
I spent my weekdays with Lucile at her school, the Bel Orme Technical Lyceum. From day one, I noticed great differences in our school systems. Besides the completely different grading system, I was impressed by the emphasis on practical application of knowledge and the strict rules for all tests and assignments. I spent my free afternoons and weekends exploring new places, not only in Bordeaux. With Lucile's family I visited other cities such as Paris, Biarritz, Bayonne or Soulac-sur-Mer.
I experienced so many things during those three weeks that it felt much longer. I got to know a new culture, a different way of thinking, made new friendships and had many unforgettable experiences that enriched me in many ways. If the opportunity presented itself, I would not hesitate to go again!
We asked...
01
What were the biggest challenges you overcame during your stay?
The biggest challenge for me was getting used to new people who had a completely different view of the world. The French are articulate and often quite loud, which was challenging for me at first. On the other hand, they gave me a new perspective on many things and situations.
But what really bothered me was the ubiquitous smoking. Out of thirty-six classmates, at least twenty smoked regularly, and only about five didn't smoke at all. Someone was constantly coughing during class, and some often had to go cough in the hallway. Fortunately, my host family was all non-smokers.
Fitting in at school wasn't easy, as my classmates in particular were a bit cocky and reluctant to adapt in communication, but thanks to Lucile I eventually made it.
02
How did this experience affect you in terms of personal development?
I originally applied to improve my language skills, and by being forced to communicate in a foreign language, I gained a lot of confidence and learned to respond quickly. Constantly communicating in English or French has taught me deeper concentration and the ability to stay focused for longer periods of time.
This experience has prepared me for independent living more than I expected. Although I lived with a host family, I had to rely on myself. It tested my self-responsibility, I learned to step out of my comfort zone and deal with different situations independently, which boosted my confidence and preparedness for future life.
In addition to language and practical skills, Erasmus+ mobility also helped me to broaden my cultural horizons. By experiencing everyday life in another country, I gained a deeper understanding and respect for other cultures. It has made me want to explore the world further and establish new intercultural relationships.
03
How would you describe your typical day?
The school day in France was very different from the one in the Czech Republic. In the morning we got up at least an hour before school started, which started at eight, nine or even ten. The lesson lasted 50 minutes and we had three 15-minute breaks during the day. The number of classes was similar to the Czech Republic, but we often had two-hour blocks of one subject. We finished school at three o'clock at the earliest, but often as late as five o'clock in the afternoon. I was allowed to volunteer for most subjects, but in English, for example, I took tests with them. In the afternoon we either went out or went straight home, because Lucile often had a lot of homework.
As for the meals, it was difficult to get used to their schedule. Breakfast was often skipped and the first meal was not until lunch around 1 pm. The main meal of the day was dinner, which started no earlier than nine in the evening and lasted at least an hour. It consisted of starter, main course, cheese and dessert, and was always accompanied by long conversations.