Case Study: George Knowles – 2025/2026 in Paris, France
For my year abroad in Paris, I had the opportunity to study at Sciences Po, one of France’s leading universities, while immersing myself fully in French culture, language, and daily life. Looking back, this experience has been one of the most challenging, rewarding, and transformative periods of my life, and I am incredibly grateful to the John Speak Foundation for making it possible.
When I first arrived in Paris, everything felt new and unfamiliar. Adjusting to a different academic system, navigating daily life in another language, and building a social network from scratch were all significant challenges. However, as the months progressed, I gradually developed a routine centred around my studies, language learning, and exploring the city. What initially felt intimidating soon became normal, and by the end of the year, Paris genuinely felt like home.
Academically, the year pushed me far beyond my comfort zone. Throughout both semesters, I studied entirely in French and completed exams, presentations, debates, and coursework on a wide range of subjects including diplomacy, journalism, migration, international negotiations, photojournalism, and gender and queer law. Some of the most memorable experiences included participating in Model United Nations-style debates, taking part in international negotiation workshops, and completing a major photojournalism project exploring the contrasts between some of the wealthiest and poorest areas of Paris. This project allowed me to engage directly with local communities, conduct interviews in French, and develop both my research and communication skills.
As the year progressed, I deliberately chose modules that aligned closely with my ambition of working in diplomacy and international affairs. Studying these topics in such an international environment gave me valuable insight into global politics while strengthening my confidence in discussing complex issues in French. One particularly interesting piece of research focused on anti-homosexuality legislation in Francophone Africa, examining how colonial legacies continue to shape contemporary legal systems and political debates in countries such as Madagascar and Senegal.
Outside of the classroom, my year abroad was equally enriching. I made friends from across the world, and these friendships became one of the most valuable aspects of my experience. Through them, I was able to discover Paris in a much more authentic way, from exploring different neighbourhoods to visiting museums and cinemas, and partaking in cultural events. I also made a conscious effort to become involved in activities beyond university life. I joined salsa and tennis classes conducted entirely in French, became a member of the Sciences Po debating team, and was selected to represent the university at a debating competition in Reims. These experiences not only improved my language skills but also helped me integrate more deeply into local life.
Travel also played an important role in my year abroad. I visited places such as Bordeaux, Reims, Dunkirk, Giverny, and Versailles, each offering a different perspective on French culture, history, and identity. These experiences helped me appreciate the diversity that exists within France beyond Paris itself.
One of the most meaningful aspects of my year was working as a babysitter for a French family. Over time, I became very close to them, and the experience gave me a unique insight into everyday French family life. By the end of the year, saying goodbye felt like leaving a second family behind.
Overall, my year abroad taught me resilience, independence, adaptability, and confidence. It showed me the value of stepping outside my comfort zone and embracing new experiences. Most importantly, it gave me lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and a much deeper understanding of both France and myself. None of this would have been possible without the generous support of the John Speak Foundation, for which I am extremely grateful. Their support allowed me to make the most of an experience that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.