Jori Feauto

Overall Experience

Participating in this program and traveling to Paris has been one of my most meaningful academic and personal experiences. Being immersed in the Parisian lifestyle, culture, and history was terrific. I gained an extraordinarily deeper understanding and appreciation for this city and how it compares to the United States. I have never been to Europe before so this opportunity strengthened my knowledge of an international perspective and how American beliefs and values differ from those in France. I was able to experience and recognize these differences firsthand through my point of view. I had the opportunity to explore diverse cultures while challenging myself in new ways.

Learning experience

The most valuable learning experience I encountered in Paris was immersing myself in unfamiliarity. I was able to experience the local culture and language, from ordering a coffee at a cafe to navigating the subway. My confidence was built higher, and it taught me how important it is to have adaptability and practical communication skills.

Memorable experience

We were able to visit many places that tourists would not usually know of. However, one of my favorite parts was visiting the famous Musée d'Orsay. I found my favorite artist, Degas. Seeing his work in person was surreal and reinforced my love for the arts. I was also able to do something outside of the program which was attending a concert at Accor Arena in Paris. This was special because I felt I had entirely immersed myself in the culture by having to find my way to the venue, speaking to locals in their language, and meeting people my age from a country I had never been to. It was one of my favorite moments of the entire trip.

What did you not expect?

Despite the typical stereotype of Parisians being contemptuous, I was surprised by how approachable and welcoming the locals were. This experience taught me the value of being open-minded and nonjudgmental, a lesson I will carry into my personal life and future endeavors.

What advice would you give?

I advise other students who want to study abroad to take the leap and make it happen. Do not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, especially with new cultures, languages, and people you may not be used to being around. Every moment you spend outside your comfort zone is a time of personal growth, making the experience even more rewarding.

How has this experience impacted your life?

This experience has broadened my worldview and strengthened my independence. I learned to appreciate different cultures and ways of thinking, making me more open-minded and adaptable in my personal and academic life. Most importantly, it made me realize that traveling abroad is not just about seeing new places but experiencing the world through a fresh new pair of eyes and an open mindset.

How did you learn about this experience?

I had always wanted to study abroad at some point, but my academic career at Iowa State was coming to a close this semester. The program I had initially signed up for was sadly canceled, so I checked the Study Abroad website and discovered Paris: Intersection of Cultures. I immediately jumped onto this opportunity because I have always wanted to go to Paris and learn more about the culture there.

International Connections