By Gavin Giem
Every year and every semester, CIS University welcomes new students from all around the world who come to Madrid, Spain, in search of new opportunities, friendships, and experiences. Amongst these students, a significant number come from France, each bringing a different story of courage and ambition to grow personally and academically. These French students are those who have made the brave step of leaving the familiar behind and choosing to study abroad, coming for the chance to pursue an international education whilst learning a new language, and discovering a new culture. Together, their stories demonstrate dedication to learning alongside personal growth.
For Orlane Faviere, from Lyon, France, her decision to study abroad at CIS University came from both her academic and personal goals. She wanted to improve her Spanish whilst studying at an American university in Spain. Studying abroad for the first time, Faviere found Madrid to be full of energy and possibilities. “Madrid is a bigger city, always crowded, and there is always something to do. The nightlife is better, too,” she said.
She experienced some initial language barriers but was able to adjust quickly. When asked about challenges with the culture or language, Faviere acknowledged that it took some time to adapt. “A little with the language, but you learn fast,” she said. Faviere also shared some kind advice for other foreign students who may be planning to transfer. Her words were simple: “Always say yes to go out and meet people. Time goes fast, so do everything you can.”
Sebastien Pasquier, from Bayon, France, transferred to CIS University last year and is now in his second year studying Marketing and Communication. Pasquier found that independence was one of the hardest parts of his move to Madrid. “The biggest challenge was to move away from my family and live alone,” he said. Still, he made it clear that the environment at CIS University made his adjustment much easier. “With this university, I can meet new people and new friends, so now I’m not alone,” he said. Outside of his studies, Pasquier plays soccer, which further helps him stay connected and balanced in his life abroad.
For Antxo Rigaud, also from Lyon and a student at IDRAC Business School, the main difficulty he faced before moving to Madrid to study abroad at CIS University was finding a place to live. “Finding an apartment and knowing where to live can be hard,” he said. Once he settled in, though, Rigaud noticed how open and relaxed student life felt in Spain compared to France. “People are smiling more; they’re more chill,” he said.
Rigaud and Pasquier both highlighted how the student life at CIS University feels more social and inclusive compared to what they experienced in France. Pasquier appreciated how “people are more open and friendly with everyone” here, acknowledging the friendly and welcoming atmosphere at CIS University.
For all three students, the experience of coming to Madrid and studying abroad has not just been a big step in their lives; it has also been transformative and fulfilling. These three students all shared a common idea when describing their experiences, and that is to come with an open mind and take advantage of every opportunity and every moment.
Through their personal experiences, these French students give a better perspective of how exciting and challenging studying abroad can be, but they also show that CIS University is certainly a place where cultures can meet, languages are learned, and strong friendships are formed.