Sara Mitra’s Bon Voyage: Paris Oui ou Non?

I am leaving UMass Amherst and studying at the Université de Paris 7- Denis Diderot in 20 days. Oh mon dieu! I am feeling a mix of excitement, anxiousness, and nostalgia for UMass. Even though I haven’t left yet, this semester has been spent frantically preparing my departure and now that it’s all set to go I am shocked that this semester is already over.

I am in a limbo of “Paris Oui ou Non?” I have so many questions for you Paris—and I am not getting any definite answers. Where will I be living? Will I be able to understand my fully French classes? Will I be able to figure out the metro system? Will I be able to meet other French students or will I be snubbed?

I know these are things that I will soon know… the other side of me is so excited. I want to explore the city’s cafés, restaurants, boutiques, and night life. I want to prove to myself that I am an independent and city savvy human being.

For now, I am going to savor my last days in Amherst—the perfect college town. I am finally done with my classes and exams after a jam packed stressful week. I am looking forward to seeing my friends again. I have set up goodbye lunches with most of my close friends at our favorite places: Lone Wolf and Amanouz Café in Northampton. I also have to go to all my favorite coffee shops, Rao’s and The Black Sheep.

Well, hopefully I will have a BON VOYAGE.

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Notes from Nicaragua: Back in the tropics

I’ve finished the first draft of my paper! The biggest and hardest part is done. I have six minutes left at this cyber, so I’ll check in more fully later and use this moment just to let you all know that I’m back in Managua hanging out with my family, sweating again, and finally in finer spirits. And I’ll be home a week from tomorrow.

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