Daisy Kankya
Degree and Year of Degree: International Studies, Politics, French; 3rd year
Which university abroad did you attend? Institut d’Etudes Politiques, Sciences-Po, Toulouse, France
Where did you live when you studied abroad? I live on campus.
What was the easiest thing when you arrived in Toulouse? I've met lots of new people and made lots of friends. It hasn’t been hard to settle down. I love how the streets are connected, which makes it easy to find your way about.
What was the most challenging thing when you arrived in France? As I'm not greatly fluent in French, it was hard for some to understand me. Not forgetting, very few people in Toulouse speak English.
What did you find different about studying in a Sciences-Po Toulouse? Their way of teaching is different in comparison to Canada. I’ve been used to the use of slideshows, textbooks, and the assignments we receive in Canada. In France, their style of teaching is very traditional.
Best things about Toulouse? It is known to be a student city. There is lots of activity, site seeing. Toulouse is a beautiful city.
What do you find most interesting about Toulouse? In comparison to New Brunswick, most of the roads in Toulouse are very narrow. Most people find it convenient to walk, use bicycles or the metro as means of transportation every day.
Which courses did you take? Cross Cultural Management, Latin America, Australia, Great Britain and the European Union, Property and the Right of Suffrage in England and Britain, Comparative Government & Public Administration in Europe, International Justice, Peace & Reconciliation, The USA and the World, Migration and Human Rights, Global Approach of Development Challenges, Religion and Politics, and International Relations & Major Security Issues in the World.
Which course did you enjoy the most and why? I enjoyed the course on the European Union and Great Britain. I have never studied on the EU before, and was interesting to see the relationship the U.K has with the E.U, and the various countries we touched upon on presentations.
Most memorable experience in Toulouse? It has been the various tourist attractions. The ancient churches, castles, sculptures, ancient paintings, the mixture of modern and old buildings in the city and so much more.
How did you spend your Christmas overseas? I actually went home to Uganda, and spent Christmas and new years with the family. Definitely worth the visit even though it was a short break.
What surprised you most about Toulouse? It was the traditional dish known as Cassoulet. It is served as a bowl of duck, beans, and pork sometimes together. It was strange, but an interesting taste.
What did you miss about Canada when you studied abroad? As Toulouse is in the southern part of France, They do not experience as much or no snow at all. I must say, I have missed some of the Canadian winter.
What did you like most about studying abroad? Meeting new people, the feeling of being in a new environment, and the touristic attractions.
What was the most important thing you learned when you were abroad? Make sure you get comfortable in the new environment you are in. In the sense of talking to people, asking for help because if I kept to myself in regards to my experience, things would be much difficult.
What are your future plans? After my one year in France, I shall return to Canada to finish my 4th year and hopefully an internship with an NGO or the UN and definitely I want to do my masters.
Do you have any advice to future students, who may wish to study abroad? Definitely go for it. Most importantly, you should go with an open mind, as you may meet things you may agree or disagree with. Talk to people and make lots of friends to make sure you fully enjoy your experience.
