Part 3. “The Arrival”

On the 7th of March 2011, I arrived in Paris. It wasn't my first time visiting the city, but that feeling of a new start in a new place was overwhelming.

I first visited the UAE Embassy education department in Paris, which I would like to thank for its outstanding efforts and continuous support through my journey from my first day to the last one. I sincerely appreciate the advice and encouragement from the education staff to follow our paths in education in the best places and conditions.

The first orientation session was given by the Embassy personnel and the meeting with our academic advisor Dr. Abdel Rahman ELRUFAAI was much of a help to all my colleagues and me. Dr. Abdel Rahman has been a teacher, advisor, and friend to many of us. Writing these thoughts reminds me of his wise words and advice that made my journey fruitful.

Shortly after that, I departed to the beautiful city in the south of France, "Montpellier." That city taught me a lot, its people became friends, and I have mastered the French language.

My first exposure in the city was with the institute "Accent Français," where I learned French. A fantastic school with welcoming staff and excellent teachers.
The new start was exciting, and initially, I was focused on settling down and learning the languages. Staying with a French host family was the best option to boost my learning, and I will never forget my stay with Madame Marie-Christine Jeanlaurent.

The first day I arrived, I was very anxious. Madame Marie-Christine welcomed me with her warm smile. What a great way of reflecting on the fantastic French hospitality!
As I didn't speak French, our discussions were limited to simple English and German. Her smile, hospitality, and kindness never faded away. By all means, she was like a mother to me, and there isn't a single second where she hasn't made me feel at home, and I am very thankful to her for all of that.
My anxiety faded away progressively, and she was there always to encourage me through my journey.

As my first days of school started, learning French wasn't the easiest task. At least, this is how it seemed to me! However, I consider myself to be lucky! Lucky to have a fantastic teacher like Madame Nedjma.
I wouldn't forget the first class when she came in; she started speaking to all the students in French, using simple words but still in French. Us, not knowing how to respond, her smile made us find the answers spontaneously.

She presented herself to us, and we did the same. She said hello, and we replied. After the first class, all of the students felt that they could speak simple French and the beginning wasn't as hard as it seemed. Thanks to Nedjma for that, as she made it simple, fun, and exciting to learn a beautiful language.

Arriving in Paris and Montpellier was exciting and thrilling. The people I have met became friends and family and made my journey, stay and experience in France memorable, rich and exciting. I wouldn't forget them all my life.

I have spent almost a year in Montpellier, learned a lot, from language to culture, history, and even other skills that I will tell you more about in the next part of my story, "The Transition."