The other day I had to say goodbye to my home for the last 5 months. Tours, France is a nice little university town with so much to offer and I’m happy I got to spend a semester there. It was a bittersweet moment leaving as I reflected on my time there but still excited for the upcoming travels I had planned and arriving home again. Throughout the semester I have met people from all over the world, travelled to lots of different countries for the first time (with still plenty more to go), and eaten all the best foods (Spain has won my heart so far, but Italy might be in for a chance when I visit in a couple weeks).
Going on exchange gives you life experiences like no other and I would definitely say to someone else to go if they have the chance, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity (well twice for me seeing as this is my second exchange :P). Studying at Flinders University gives a great opportunity to do this and once you’re an exchange student, you’re always an exchange student. You feel like you are a part of a community of very few, and instantly bond with others you meet who have been in your shoes and know what it’s like.
And, by the end of this when I’m back home in Australia again, I can truly say that I have seen places I could’ve only dreamed of, discovered (most of) Europe and have been so lucky to get this opportunity to go on exchange (again) to another part of the world.
Au revoir, France!
Melissa Sainsbury, Bachelor of Education (Primary R-7)/Bachelor of Arts, Semester 1 2017 exchange at Université François-Rabelais de Tours, France
