Luc Ethier
Exchange destination: Université Lumière (Lyon 2) (Lyon, France)
Duration: 2 semesters
Program: Business
High school: École secondaire l'Essor
One word to describe your exchange?
Unforgettable
What is the best thing that happened on exchange?
Playing varsity volleyball for my university in France. We ended up 2nd in the city which had 44 teams and I had the opportunity to play in other European countries!
How did you finance your exchange?
I spent the summer working a full time at the French School Board, while also working part time at McDonald’s before I left on exchange in September. I also received the scholarship from the Ontario-Rhône Alpes exchange program, which basically accounted for my entire 10 months rent.
What was the biggest cultural shock you experienced?
Being fluent in French, I thought I would be comfortable communicating with anyone in France. However, it took me a couple months to get used to the different dialect, but after that it was smooth sailing.
What is something that you know now, that you wish you knew before you went on exchange?
Live in the moment, put all electronics down and focus on the now, it comes and goes extremely fast. Never say no to new experiences, be spontaneous and know that at the end of the day, everything works itself out. Keep in constant communication with the Exchange Office, go speak to Michelle and ask questions, she is there to help with your application and the whole process. I had visited Michelle a couple times and she recognized that I was committed to go on exchange and it made me more comfortable for the interviewing process, as well as having a better overall interview.
If you were to recommend exchange to your best friend, what would you say?
I’ll help you pack. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done, it has helped shape me into a curious, inquisitive and free spirited person. If you’re nervous about leaving people behind, don’t be. Your family and friends will stay in touch, and you’ll make new, lifelong friendships on exchange.
How are you including exchange on your resume?
Exchange shows my flexibility and willingness to travel, and relocate. Companies are now looking for people who are outgoing, curious, ready for a challenge, and accepting of different cultures. Exchange shows just that!
A sample of the classes taken and credits received:
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Stratégie = 75-3XX (3rd year credit)
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Création d’entreprises = 75-2XX (2nd year credit)
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Littérature culture contemporaine française = 29-2XX
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Atelier de conversation = 29-2XX
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Genre, Langue et Littérature 29-3XX
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Plus others