Cultural Exchange - 2 Months with SSW France

In 2024 I had the opportunity to spend 2 months living and working in France.

I stayed in Strasbourg and worked with SSW's French team, and it was an experience that went far beyond what I expected.

A Different Kind of Trip

I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to France - not only did I learn a lot about the country, but having easy access to the rest of Europe was an amazing bonus too! I got to see 5 different countries!

I had been to France before with family, but this trip was completely different. I was using my own money, I had to work out how to get around and plan my own schedule, and the biggest thing was I was traveling alone for the first time. It was a great experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me so much about independence and adaptability.

Thanks to Gilles Pothieu and Hugo Pernet for your helpfulness while I was in Strasbourg 🙏🏼 Having local colleagues who were willing to show me around and help me navigate both work and life in France made all the difference.

My friend from SSW Brisbane, Tylah kapa, also started is exchange in my last week. It was great to have a familiar face around, and show him around the city. We even got to visit Riquewhir, another beautiful village in Alsace.

Reflection

I am very thankful to have the opportunity to travel with help from SSW.

For anyone considering a similar opportunity, I'd say go for it. The challenges you'll face traveling alone are exactly what make the experience so valuable.

Figure: Gilles and Hugo took me to see this awesome castle south of Strasbourg

Figure: The classic Strasbourg shot

Figure: Tylah, Hugo, Gilles and his family - visiting Riquewhir

📸 Check out my Instagram for more photos from the trip!

Originally shared on LinkedIn