Pre-Departure

I am writing this just some 12 hours before my departure by the TGV to Paris. For some of the most bizzarre reasons, the first class tickets cost less than those of the second class! As the Dutch would say 'Een goed begin is het halve werk', I would count this as a good start to my semester in Institut d'Etudes Politiques, or more affectionally known as Sciences Po.

I am both excited and nervous. Excited because I will be spending the next 5 months in one of the best institutions in the world, studying half of my subjects in French. At the same time, the nervous part comes from the fact that I would be leaving the Netherlands; a cosy little shell I have built in the past 2 years of my life.

It is going to be such a dream, to be living in Paris, enjoying the atmosphere and the life. Paris, the city of lights, the city of fine food and wine, the city of lovers, the city in which the Seine passes through, is more than just a city; it is a city of vibrant life. I am holding my breath in eager anticipation of what to come.

Before I get carried away, I would like to thank the exchange team of Tilburg University for their efforts in arranging everything, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Without them, I am quite sure that I would not be able to make it to Paris, to Sciences Po if at all!

Alors Paris, en avant!