Day 3 in France: first day full of activities

by James Taylor, management information systems, senior

Visiting the Universite’ de Tours was up first. We met with members of the business department and toured their campus resources. We met with campus representatives and discussed several topics about Ukraine and the Russian situation and how we feel as Americans. It was good to share our experience with them since we live far from France. It was a great dialogue from both parties, which made us appreciate the meaningful relationship between the French and Americans. Ukraine has had my utmost support for its country and its people through this troubling time.

Our discussions shifted to information about the university and what they offer their students. It was eye-opening to hear that they provide many resources and programs for their students free of charge. Hearing this led to the discussion about how this is financially possible for their students. France has tax systems have some similarities to our tax system, but the differences make it possible for the country to supply free health care and education for its citizens. It was fascinating to hear how our countries can be similar and pose significant differences in fundamental practices.

Discussions turned more personal. I sat with a few of the professors in the business department for lunch, excited to learn more. Our 3-course lunch included food I had never tried before. The professor spoke very fondly over the chosen foods and had nothing but great things to say about the cooking staff. The meal started with a salad with beef in dressing. On the side was goat cheese over bread which was the star of the first course. The main course was salmon with pickled onions over potatoes and brown sauce. This was an exciting combination. The professors were curious to see if we had liked it. This dish was stellar and afterward, I was intrigued to know what was coming next. The dessert was a vanilla and chocolate pudding over a cookie with fruit on the side, which was also delicious.

Discussions soon turned toward what the professors did for leisure. I was curious to see what American media is commonly consumed and how they liked it instead of French movies, music, etc. The professors loved American films and TV shows and saw a couple I had not seen yet. They claimed that American media has a lot more quality. It is great to hear that our media transcends countries for everyone to enjoy.

This university tour was a fantastic way to assimilate ourselves into French culture, with dialogue and shared experiences headlining our day.

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