Lenah: "To go to France was my dream"
International alumni share their French experience with us.
Discover Lenah’s story!
Tell us a bit about yourself (where you’re from, what you do, what you have studied in France, and where)!
I was originally from Indonesia and when I went to study in France, I had been working as a journalist in Indonesia. I went to France to study French Contemporary Literature at Sorbonne Paris III. It was a one-year non-degree programme.
Why did you choose France?
I was young and to go to France was my dream. So when I had the chance to do it, I grabbed it immediately.
How did your stay in France change who you are and impact your career?
I lived in a dormitory (un foyer) in Paris 75014, I met a lot of women from other countries. It was really fun, not only I learned French but also I learned about different cultures. We had international cuisine nights when we took turn to cook dishes from our country and shared with other people in the foyer. I think living there has really given me a lot of insight about people from different cultures. There is no direct impact to my career, but definitely it has given me a lot of ‘food for thoughts’.
Your favourite word in French?
I like all of them 😊
We hope you enjoyed your French culture shock! Any memorable cultural fact, experience?
I did enjoy very much La Fete de la musique day on the 21st of June. I think Paris was more beautiful than usual with music in every corner and on the public transport. I had a wonderful day with my friends.
What is your favorite French meal?
I love Ile Flottante! And I ate artichoke for the first time in my life in Paris.
Have you brought back a French souvenir with you?
I brought back a lot of lovely memories.
Any French habit you have kept?
Yes, I used to go to cinema more than 3 times a week in Paris. I still love cinema and watch a lot of films and I also now volunteer at a nonprofit community cinema in London (Deptford Cinema)
Share your motto with us!
Chacun son goût – I like this motto !
