I guess it's called "Study" Abroad for a reason...

As much as the last few weeks have been an entrance into Breton daily life and culture, they have also been a sobering immersion into intense schoolwork and studying. Every day we begin class at 9:15 a.m. and remain there until 5:00 p.m. (or in French terms, 9h15 à 17h, which I still have yet to get used to.)  I am at the humanities campus of Université de Rennes, along with other Rhodes students and many other students from different countries who are also studying in Brittany this summer. Welcome to what I call, "the space station."

Without a doubt, this has been the most challenging part of my time here in Brittany. The day is quite long and intense, and I often find myself wishing I were out in the city instead of in class for so many hours every day. Becoming a part of this university, however, has given me an insight into French culture and daily habits in such a way that would have otherwise been impossible to attain. Personally, it is here at the university where I receive the heaviest doses of culture shock. It is humbling to say the least, but it reminds me to stay firm in who I am as an American, yet open to new ways of life, knowing that I am trying my best to assimilate as much as possible each day. 

One of the most striking features of Université de Rennes is its modern, almost futuristic architecture. I think that this is very much an integral part of current French interior form though, as even the apartment where I am living is laid out in an economical, sterile, and geometric way; Design seems to be ruled primarily by efficiency. If you can imagine IKEA, you've got the visuals!

We are enrolled in a series of six courses, separated by the groups into which each of us tested. My level takes classes in Advanced French language mechanics, French economics, Breton/French Civilization, Oral comprehension, Written expression, and French Cinema. 

All of my professors are so different, and all so French. In the beginning of the morning we have a language class with our professor, M. Gil Prévôt for two hours. He has quickly become the collective favorite as he is full of energy, delivers plenty of jokes, demands our attention, and has perhaps the heaviest French accent I have ever heard. Even though we are still drowsy when arriving to class, the morning goes by quickly with him. 

Next we have our Economics course, where we more often than not get into some pretty lively debates. Beforehand, I usually snack on a rolled up crêpe aux chocolat that Yseult always buys at the store "à emporter." They are weirdly addictive and I really should stay away from the snack cabinet...but they come in handy because they give me mental energy for this class, which I always need!

And then, there is lunch.
I will just say this, if anyone ever questions the degree to which the French take eating seriously, all they need to do is observe this cafeteria for two minutes. Every person receives a full meal, accompanied by bread and cheese, a yogurt, and a dessert. All hold their forks and knives properly, eating slowly and talking with lowered voices. No rushing goes on in here.

I look forward to this time because it is fascinating to see how the French function in a duly academic and social environment. All of us from Rhodes sit together, and it is always both funny and reassuring to hear about their experiences in different classes and how each person is also adapting to living here. 

I have found that even during breaks from class, the experience of just being at Rennes 2 is a learning lesson in itself. It may be as simple as letting my guard down to speak English for the first time in hours or taking a few moments alone to sit outside. There is a heightened sense of self-awareness, and I very often feel that I am constantly being observed by my professors and other native French speakers, which does intimidate me a bit. At the same time though, being at Rennes 2 has only deepened my love for my country, as I have frequently found myself in situations where I have had to unapologetically defend the goodness of the U.S. and the American spirit. I see this though as a great and unexpected gift.  

After lunch, a few of us usually get a strong cup of coffee or espresso from a small stand outside the Villejean metro station before the afternoon's classes begin. Our classes are varied, sometimes with one class for three hours, other times with two. In between each we take a short "pause café " for about ten minutes to regroup.   

At first, being at school for eight hours a day was very difficult for everyone. I think now though, our unanimous resolve over the grueling schedule has become a bonding factor for us, which helps us get through the work with a positive outlook and always a sense of humor.

But, it never hurts to come back to Yseult making tea with her friend and having some Breton tea cakes at the end of the day.