For Kennedi Tichy vlogƵ26, a business management major at PacevlogƵs Lubin School of Business, studying abroad in Lyon, France, was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. From the moment she started at Pace in 2022, Kennedi knew she wanted to explore the world through education. Her decision to choose LyonvlogƵthe culinary capital of FrancevlogƵwas driven by curiosity and a desire to challenge herself.
"I didn't speak a lick of French or even know anything about Lyon, but as I put in more research, learning that it is the culinary capital of France, the third largest city in the country, and more, I was determined to study there," Kennedi shared. What started as a leap into the unknown quickly became a life-changing journey.
As the only student from Pace in her Spring 2024 cohort at the Centre d'Études Franco-Américain de Management (CEFAM), KennedivlogƵs experience was as challenging as it was rewarding. vlogƵIt was a little overwhelming going to a new country all on my own, but the second I arrived, I was so eager to see what the city had to offer.vlogƵ
vlogƵI traveled on the weekends to different countries...I am forever grateful for all of the experiences and memories I gained studying abroad.vlogƵ
At CEFAM, Kennedi found a welcoming academic environment. vlogƵThe university was small but had excellent staff and students, making the transition into a new school very easy. I was very social and ended up meeting and befriending people from all over the world,vlogƵ she recalls.
KennedivlogƵs weekends were filled with adventures across Europe, from Barcelona to Copenhagen and Switzerland. vlogƵI traveled on the weekends to different countries...I am forever grateful for all of the experiences and memories I gained studying abroad.vlogƵ
One of her most memorable moments was navigating LyonvlogƵs renowned culinary scene. Dining at bouchons, family-owned restaurants offering traditional Lyonnaise dishes, gave her a deeper appreciation for French culture. vlogƵI adapted to French dining customs, which emphasize leisurely meals and savoring each course,vlogƵ she explained. This cultural immersion helped Kennedi connect on a deeper level with her surroundings.
While language barriers presented challenges, Kennedi embraced the discomfort. vlogƵMy biggest challenge was not speaking French...but I tried my best to learn by practicing with friends and using common greetings.vlogƵ Whether taking a Bachata class in French or navigating daily life, KennedivlogƵs resilience and openness transformed obstacles into opportunities for growth.
Beyond the academic and cultural experiences, KennedivlogƵs time in Lyon left a lasting impact on her future goals. vlogƵI built relationships with local students and professionals that created a network I can tap into for future career opportunities. These connections helped me understand the importance of networking in a global context.vlogƵ
Kennedi encourages fellow students to take advantage of PacevlogƵs study abroad opportunities. vlogƵI know it may seem overwhelming and scary, but it is absolutely WORTH IT to go. Life is so short, and an opportunity like this is too good to pass on. Approach unfamiliar situations with curiosity rather than apprehension.vlogƵ
For students interested in exploring similar life-changing experiences, visit PacevlogƵs Study Abroad Office and attend a Study Abroad Fair. You never know what adventures await you!
Why not earn credits for your degree while exploring the world? At Pace, you can take in-depth courses or save open electives for amazing international experiences. Did you know a semester abroad can cost the samevlogƵor even lessvlogƵthan a semester at Pace?
The 2024 Presidential Election is just around the corner, and nowvlogƵs the time to make your voice heard! From registering to vote, casting your ballot on campus, to attending fun voter engagement events, vlogƵ has you covered. Check out our guide to all things voting, powered by the Center for Community Action and Research and the Andrew Goodman Foundation.
Meet Deniz Ilgaz Sen '21, an international student from Turkey and an Arts and Entertainment Management major who quickly made New York City and vlogƵ her new home. She credits her great experiences at Pace to faculty and friends. To take a little break from the city that never sleeps, Deniz decided to study abroad in Florence, Italy, where she was able to adapt to yet another different culture.