The French Study Abroad Experience: Feeling at home in Strasbourg

Sarah Regner is a visiting student from Colgate, enrolled in the University of Strasbourg program.

Dr. Bart: Why did you decide to join the Syracuse Abroad program in Strasbourg?

Sarah Regner: I really wanted to study abroad in France to try to become more fluent in French. I did not want to be in Paris because I have found that it is more difficult to practice speaking there. Everyone speaks English, and it’s a lot easier for them to speak to you in English than for you to struggle with French. I wanted to have a fighting chance at practicing the language and thought a smaller city would be better.

The Syracuse program appealed to me because of the Villa here and the opportunity to take at least a few classes either in English or with professors who understand that I’m not French. Also, the partner program with the University of Strasbourg was a big factor. The French major at Colgate is focused on French literature rather than grammar or history classes in French, which is a bit tricky to find in study abroad programs. Being able to take literature classes alongside French students was really important for my major and also for becoming more fluent in the language.

Dr. Bart: So, given your aim was to find more opportunities to actually speak French, has it worked? Has that been a good choice?

Sarah Regner: I think so. The University of Strasbourg courses are a little tricky because the format is two-hour lectures, and no one really speaks except for the professors. I’ve gotten a lot better at understanding and taking notes from what I’m hearing. But in terms of speaking, I think being in a host family and taking some of my French grammar classes here at the Villa have been more helpful.

Speaking French in a more colloquial context has pointed out gaps in my knowledge—things like common phrases you wouldn’t really come across in a traditional French class but that are super important in everyday life. It’s been a little hard because all the kids here speak English, so I tend to speak English with my friends. But we’ve tried to teach each other words and phrases we pick up. If we find a word or phrase that works better in French than in English, we’ll add it to the vocabulary we use with each other, which is really fun.

Dr. Bart: Have you made any French friends or socialized with anyone French?

Sarah Regner: I have. The two literature courses I’m taking each had an oral presentation component we had to do in groups. For one, I was in a group of three, and for the other, I had one partner. We had to sit down and work on the projects for quite a while, analyzing the texts we were presenting on, so I got to know them along the way. 

I’ve noticed that a lot of the students in these literature classes are other international students from Europe, the Middle East, or other regions. It’s been really cool to use French to communicate with people where neither of us is speaking our first language.

I also joined the local rowing club, which has been great for meeting people outside of an academic context while keeping up with my training. I talk to the coach, the other girls on the team, and anyone at practice; they have all been so kind and welcoming.

Dr. Bart: Have you been traveling on weekends?

Sarah Regner: I have. I feel very lucky that all of our trips went off so well. I was lucky to find a group of people I love traveling and spending time with. We all had similar priorities when traveling, which made it super easy to pick a place, go, and explore something new.

Before coming here, I didn’t like traveling—it made me nervous. This was a test to see how far I could push myself, and it ended up being amazing. Now it’s one of my favorite things to do: seeing new places, trying new food, and doing new things with a great group of friends.

Dr. Bart: When you first came to the University of Strasbourg, it wasn’t easy with orientation, right?

Sarah Regner: No, it was a bit tricky at first. The university has an infrastructure for the Erasmus program for European international students, but the US exchange exists outside of that structure. I filled out pre-registration forms, but they weren’t accepted. Syracuse helped to sort out the situation, which I am very grateful for. Dr. John walked with me to the office of the head of international relations to make sure I could get into classes that worked with my schedule and major requirements, and catch up on notes so I didn’t fall behind.

Dr. Bart: What will be your lasting memory of Strasbourg when you return home?

Sarah Regner: It’s hard to pick just one. But a recent memory is from the Christmas market, watching the light show on the tree while music from The Nutcracker played. I grew up doing ballet and performing The Nutcracker every year, so it was really special to hear that music and share the moment with friends.

Dr. Bart: Do you consider Strasbourg home now? Would you come back?

Sarah Regner: I think so. I’ve started calling my host family’s house “home,” which reminds me of when I first moved to college and started to feel at home in my dorm. At the beginning of the semester, I couldn’t imagine getting around here without Google Maps, but now I feel comfortable and know where things are. I’ll definitely come back. It feels special to have studied abroad in a city that isn’t as famous as Paris and to share it with the friends I’ve made here.

Dr. Bart: And finally, where’s your favorite place to hang out in Strasbourg?

Sarah Regner: I recently discovered a café called Les Savons d’Hélène near the Christmas markets. It’s cozy, eclectic, and great for working. The staff is lovely, and there’s plenty of space for big groups. I’ll definitely be going back this week.

Studying abroad in Strasbourg has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. The city’s rich history and dynamic culture, coupled with its role as a hub for European institutions, have provided an inspiring backdrop for both my academic pursuits and personal growth. As a Sciences Po student and intern at the Council of Europe, I have been immersed in an environment that fosters critical thinking, cross-cultural engagement, and meaningful professional development. 

At the Council of Europe, I am part of the Directorate General Human Rights and Rule of Law, specifically working with the Data Protection Unit on matters related to Convention 108. This internship has been an incredible opportunity to delve into international data protection policies and contribute to discussions shaping the protection of individual rights in the digital age. My tasks often involve researching legal frameworks, drafting summaries, and supporting projects that emphasize the importance of data privacy. Working alongside such dedicated professionals has given me invaluable insights into how multilateral institutions operate to safeguard democratic principles. 

What truly stands out about my internship is the supportive and collaborative atmosphere created by my supervisors. They have been more than mentors—they have become an integral part of my experience here. One of my supervisors, for instance, shares my interest in fitness, and we often go for morning runs together. These runs symbolize the depth of the connections I’ve formed; they are more than moments of exercise—they reflect a genuine rapport that transcends the formalities of the workplace. This relationship exemplifies how my time at the Council of Europe is not just about professional achievements but also about building lasting human connections. 

Outside of my internship, I have had the pleasure of forming meaningful friendships with locals. Strasbourg’s people have welcomed me with warmth and kindness, making it easy to integrate into the community. These friendships have opened doors to new experiences, from attending cultural events to exploring the city’s historic landmarks. Whether strolling along the canals or discussing European politics in the park, my interactions with local friends have broadened my understanding of life in Strasbourg and enriched my perspective on cultural diversity. 

As a Sciences Po student, the academic component of my time in Strasbourg has been equally rewarding. The curriculum challenges me to analyze global issues critically while offering a unique opportunity to study in a city that embodies European cooperation. Strasbourg’s role as the seat of the Council of Europe and other key institutions has allowed me to witness the intersection of academic theories and practical policymaking. 

Strasbourg has become more than a city I study and work in; it has become a place where I’ve grown as a person. The relationships I’ve built—with my supervisors, colleagues, and local friends—reflect the profound connections that have shaped this journey. This experience has been about more than academic and professional growth; it’s about the people, the ideas, and the values that will remain with me long after I leave.

Souleymane Nx Bah ’26

International Relations major

Syracuse Strasbourg & Sciences Po