When I began the application process for study abroad last spring, I knew I wanted an independent experience where I would be challenged in a new way. Spending a year abroad would already push me out of my comfort zone, but I also sought a place I could make home. Grenoble, France was a city I had never heard of before and the newness, unfamiliarity, and uniqueness of the program was exactly what drew me in.
After driving through the windy valley beneath the French Alps, I arrived in my new home. There was snow at the very top of the peaks around me, despite the summer heat. I saw people biking, running, sitting along the Isere River, and soaking in the remaining summer days. They knew of the short winter days coming.
Sciences Po Grenoble's campus is picturesque. With a small French student population and a new group of international students arriving every semester, the campus adapts to changes easily. I heard so many languages spoken my first week, and I felt the newness of this chapter of my life seep in.
I was starting over once again, just like the beginning of college and the start of my gap year program. I was overwhelmed but quickly was assured I chose the perfect program for me. With unique classes at the French "Ivy League" and a high level of language immersion, I am receiving just the challenge I hoped for.
The added bonus on top of everything else? The mountains. There is not a day that goes by where I don't go into the mountains; hiking, biking, running, climbing. To me, studying abroad is my chance to have experiences I never could have back home, and I am very grateful to have an entire year to do so. I have fallen in love with this city that I now truly call home.
Baker Sanders
Academic Year 2023
GW Exchange - Sciences Po Grenoble
Elliott School of International Affairs
International Affairs and Economics Major