Things I wish I knew before moving to France…

Despite the current situation with COVID-19, International Students are allowed to come into France for school. This is pretty great news! Now, if you are new to France, “Bienvenue”! I hope you have an amazing experience.

Now, depending on how long you have been in France, you definitely have a few regrets.I have quite a number, and if I could turn back the hands of time I most probably would, but like they say “if wishes were horses, beggars would ride.” I cannot undo the past, but I am grateful for what it has taught me.

Hopefully, these few pointers help international students make better choices before and during their stay in France:

1.Learn some basic French words. Especially for students who are admitted into English taught programs, you may assume everyone else speaks English. Well, sorry to disappoint you, but that is not the reality. A few French words or phrases will save you a lot of stress and disappointment.For those who already speak A2 level French and above, you should be fine after getting familiar with the French accent of whichever city you find yourself in.

2.Student discounts. To be honest, it took me so long to realise I could get most things for cheaper, and sometimes half the price based on my student status. It is important to research online and ask the international office of your school as many questions as possible.

3. Beware of scammers. Yes, scammers! They take advantage of your naivety, vulnerability and ignorance and leave you stranded. Be wary of the sites you leave your number, especially when looking for student jobs and apartments. Verify how genuine the source is, and if you are genuinely clueless talk to someone who has been here longer. They will teach you a thing or two.

4. Independence. Moving away from home means there is no one to run to, and no one to completely rely on. If you come from a more collectivist culture, it may be difficult settling in here where most people are more individualistic, but you will survive, we all have.

5. You can travel for cheap. With numerous discounts at different times of the year for transport and accommodation, travelling within Europe can be super cheap. Sometimes as low as € 0.99, you can travel outside of France. However, you should book ahead of time, that will save you a lot of money. Last minute travels are often not cost effective.

6. Learn to ride a bicycle. If you already ride a bicycle, you can skip to point 7. I honestly regret the fact that I cannot ride a bicycle. I was too scared to try as a child and I never thought it will be important when I was getting older.It is a cheaper source of transportation in most European countries. In some cities in France, bikes can be used for free. Yes for free!

7.Do not underestimate the weather. Summer can be brutal and winter, unpleasant. The key is to be over prepared, instead of underprepared.It is great to read a lot about the city too. That will often reduce the number of unpleasant surprises you may have to be faced with.

8. Culture shock. If you are travelling outside your home country for the very first time, you are bound to be shocked by how people speak, act and even how systems work in other parts of the world. You will get used to it pretty quickly, for sure.

9. Make friends.Try not to live a life of absolute solitude. Stay in contact with a few trusted friends.Let them know when you decide to go on solo trips so they can check up on you. Since you may not have family here, it is safe to keep a few people up to date on your where about. It is entirely for your own good.

10. Join Ghana Connekt. There are very few groups that will offer you as many advantages as Ghana Connekt does. This association is full of students and young professionals who have been in France and other neighbouring countries for longer than you. They definitely have one or two words of wisdom to share with you, to help you fit in much easier and to help you make the most of your stay in France.

Once again,”Bienvenue en France, mes amis!Profitez bien de votre séjour.”

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