Category: La Une in English Page 5 of 17

-Morgan Ippolito

My love story with Valentine’s Day began when I was rather young. Each year at school, we made Valentine’s Day boxes, which means we found shoe boxes and reused them, decorated with red paper and bows, to receive Valentine’s Day cards. Each student made cards for everyone and passed them out on Valentine’s Day. Of course, the cards were accompanied with little candies. After that, I fell in love with Valentine’s Day. I celebrate it every February and make sure that my family and friends know how much I love them when I give them a Valentine’s Day card.

Valentine’s Day Cards. Photo de Morgan Ippolito.

This year, my Valentine’s Day experience was much different. In fact, the French don’t really celebrate it all. Maybe there are a few couples that do, but in general no one truly recognizes the holiday. In conversation with my French friends, I learned that Valentine’s Day is considered too commercialized. Moreover, the day does not accurately express feelings one may feel for another, according to the French. Why should one say “I love you” on a designated day? Love is a constant state and cannot be expressed through only one day. I find this point of view rather philosophical and sophisticated, and I agree with it. However, my agreement does not stop me from feeling sadness: even if Valentine’s Day is too commercialized, I still adore it. Yes, love is constant, but why can’t we have a day where everyone knows that they are loved?

I was having a true moment of cultural shock when Valentine’s Day actually came around: I missed my family and friends so much. Nonetheless, I decided to reframe my situation by making Valentine’s Day cards for my friends and my host. I was worried : would my friends like the cards? Am I being too American? I strongly hoped that my actions would be well received. In giving the Valentine’s Day cards, I discovered that everyone, whether they are French or American, likes to receive a little treat and a note that means someone is thinking of them. I had created an opportunity to share my culture with others. I still miss American holidays, but I now feel more comfortable and happy: I have realized that everyone appreciates a moment where we all share a common sentiment.

-Lydia Godo-Solo

Let me preface this article with a statement: I love fashion. So when I was packing my three suitcases, one was a carry-on I promise, I knew my trip to Toulouse was my time to shine. I could express my love for fashion without the limitations of the Maine weather and people who like to wear sweatpants every day. One of the counselors in the study abroad office once told me that I was dressed like I was ready for Paris. My dream hit a little roadblock when two of my suitcases were overweight and I had to leave some clothes and shoes at the airport with my frustrated father. Now that I have been here in Toulouse for six weeks, I am an expert in Toulouse fashion. Here are a few rules:

1. If you do not have a black leather vest, do not come to France. I don’t think they even let you through Customs without one.
2. Toulousians love sneakers and they are very pratical. During the sales here, there were so many people I couldn’t move around in stores like Size? andCourir that specialize in selling name brand sneakers, like Adidas, Nike, Puma, Reebok, and Timberland. A favorite for young toulousians is the Stan Smith, a white sneaker by Adidas.
   

   Stylish sneakers in Toulouse. Photo de Lydia Godo-Solo.

3. In schools all over the Unites States, leggings in place of pants are very populaire. Here, no, thanks to God. I understand the attraction of leggings, but every day? Young French women wear skinny jeans almost all the time. Bonus points: if you were black or grey skinny jeans.
4. This is not surprising, but the French love scarves. But, not just any scarf. If your scarf cannot also serve as a blanket, leave it in your closet for the summer.
5. Since it is winter, I will give one last piece of advice on coats. Toulousians love their clothes in neutral colors, it is the same for jackets. Black, navy blue, olive green, and all fifty shades of grey. They love trench coats, military jackets, fur jackets, and jackets with fur (The two are different!).

And voila! No translation needed there. Five rules for fashion in Toulouse. You’re welcome! I could give you all more, but I can’t give away all my secrets.

Dear Readers,

First of all, we’d like to wish you a happy new year! We hope you enjoyed the break with your family and friends and that 2016 is off to a good start.

It’s once again that time of year where one semester comes to an end and another begins. While two Dickinson students will stay until the end of the year, 10 others recently went back to the US to continue their studies in their respective universities, Dickinson, WashU, Bowdoin, and Bryn Mawr. Two students will stay until the end of the year, and another has decided to prolong her stay in France and Europe for a few more months. We thank them for their participation throughout last semester and wish them the best of luck.

Before leaving, they shared some last thoughts and adivce.

How would you describe this semester ? What did you learn ?

My semester in Toulouse has been a success. True, there were challenges and I felt nostalgic for the States. I learned a lot and had a lot of fun. Above all, I learned to be independent and how to integrate into a new community or culture. – Jessamyn, student from Dickinson

During my first semester in Toulouse I have learned many useful skills about living in the city. One of the most important things I’ve learned is time management, especially when it comes to public transportation. School is not as close to home here, so it’s important to make sure I plan to have plenty of time to get to school and get back home.  – Lisa, year long student from Dickinson

What will you miss about Toulouse ?

What I will miss about Toulouse is its proximity to other interesttng places. During my stay in Toulouse I spent several days in the Pyrenees and other small cities around Toulouse like Albi, Carcassonne and Foix. I will miss being able to explore and discover my surroundings, since I already know them in the US – Jessamyn, Dickinson student

What I will miss most about Toulouse is two words. This phrase, “Thank you, goodbye!”, marked the beginning and end of every day as I left my bus — line 16 — and became a daily interaction with the bus drivers. It also serves to describe how I feel as I look to leave Toulouse and return to the United States. Thank you, Toulouse, for the unforgettable semester, and see you soon! – Mariette, Bowdoin student

Do you have advice for the new students ?

You have to get out of your comfort zone and speak as much as you can, but don’t forget to have fun. – Jessamyn, Dickinson student

My advice for the new students is to take advantage of the beginning of the semester when they don’t have too much work. There are so many interesting things to do in Toulouse, great museums, movies, and concerts. It’s also a great time to take day trips to nearby cities such as Carcassonne, Albi, or even Bordeaux (only 2 hours away!)– Lisa, year long student from Dickinson

In the beginning of January we welcomed 10 new students from three universities– Dickinson (Pennsylvania), WahsU (Missouri), et Bowdoin (Maine) – and from almost all corners of the US. In Toulouse they’ll continue their studies in Anthropology, Classics, Economy, International Business, Law, Linguistics, Literature, Mathematics, Marketing, Psychology, and French. We’re excited to begin this semester with them and hope they will enjoy their stay in Toulouse.

I’ll let two Spring semester students, Evelyn and Olivia, take over and tell you about their first impressions of Toulouse.

Enjoy,
Julia

-Olivia Weiner

Aside from the obvious passion for stinky cheese and fine wine, there is another great undeniable French love: good, lively conversation. And while I can’t really attest to it firsthand (seeing as my French language skills are more attuned to medieval history lectures than to normal social functions), there is no questioning the lively chatter and constant chorus of «je blague» that ensues when you throw French friends together. My host throws dinner parties where the conversation flows freely until two in the morning, where they die laughing–this is a point of pride, this joyful verbal repartee. Of course, I am still on the periphery of all this, catching pieces like listening from underwater.

However, wandering through the streets of Toulouse, I am coming to understand that this vivacity has its time and place–which is generally to say, among good friends in a social setting. As much as they love talking, Toulousains seem to have no problem with silence and solitude. In an American scene that generally involves everybody thumbing nervously through their smart phones and glancing at each other to avoid the silence of public transportation, I look around the metro in Toulouse and the people around me all look at the floor or at their laps. The cafés are dotted with people alone, at ease, having an afternoon glass. It’s an admirable ease, but it may also be testament to a greater reliance on a safe distance between strangers.

I notice that the houses here often have high walls and gates and series of doors, and office doors and shutters are closed. Socialization has too its architecture. In my classes at the University of Toulouse, I have to introduce myself in shaky French to the quiet student sitting next to me. I’ve been told a couple of times already by people I’ve met going out that we Americans are so open and talkative, eager to share stories with strangers. And I think back to my classes in the United States where on the first day we all introduce ourselves to the room, and I think it has to do with somehow always feeling new and like we’ve all just arrived. Where the English language becomes a sort of common denominator, the base communication for myriad people to connect.

After my initial effort, I find that the quiet French students respond with genuine kindness and interest, an easy smile right behind. But there is a tangible sense of belonging, sense of place, that explains the ease in both solitude and conversation. Even if at this point I’m just listening with an ear to a door, the murmur of laughter on the other side promises something beautiful.

-Evelyn Sanchez

Rue du Taur. Photo by Evelyn Sanchez.

When my mother, who is from northern Mexico, asked me how life is in Toulouse, I responded, “It’s like a town-village.” The city’s politeness is similar to that of Mexico’s. When people get on the bus they say, “Bonjour” and they say “Merci. Au revoir” when they descend. Also everything is close to everything. The longest walk I would do is 30 minutes. Within a 10-minute walk, I can find a small shop for meat, pastries, sandwiches, or cheese, where there will be a very invested employee. For example, the first day of my arrival I decided to go look for some toiletry items at the pharmacy. As soon as I entered, the employee approached me and asked me if I needed help. He took about 10 minutes to explain to me all the different products and their utility.

But in reality, I came to Toulouse to enjoy city life. At Bowdoin, students comprise social life, but in Toulouse, everyone does. Tisséo, Toulouse’s transportation system, facilitates transportation to bars, clubs, museums, restaurants, and the movies using the bus and metro. Tisséo has an application where users can know departure time and the best directions to a desired destination. The metro, which comes every two minutes, has two main lines A and B. So, it’s almost impossible to get lost in this city. Similarly, it would be very difficult to get bored here. In particular, student life at Sciences Po offers plenty of opportunities to volunteer, play sports, and go out to various events. The first weekend of my arrival, I was stunned by the nightlife at the St Pierre plaza where the youth enjoys the beautiful view of the Garonne River and inexpensive wine. The laughter and warmth of this scene met a tranquility and peace of the night that I had never even imagined. Here, the people know how to live a life in community while appreciating an animated and simple life.

The Canal du Midi. Photo by Evelyn Sanchez.

A beautiful view of the Pink City. Photo d’Evelyn Sanchez.

Dear Readers,

Both the year 2015 and the semester are coming to an end. As our students prepare for exams, vacation, and their return to the USA, I am leaving you with the last edition of La Une for the year, in which our students tell you about their last discoveries in Toulouse : the Christmas Market, the French language and its nuances, restaurant protocol, the Georges Labit Museum and lastly, manners typical of Toulouse.

The Dickinson in France team would like to thank all of your for your interest and fidelity throughout the semester and wish you happy holidays !

Happy reading and see you next year!

Julia

– Anna Robinette

This time of year is filled with traditions. One of the many traditions in Toulouse that the American students have enjoyed this month has been the Christmas Market.

The Christmas Market has its origins in Germany and Austria as early as 1294, but many European countries have also adopted this tradition as a way to celebrate the four weeks of Advent and preparation for the holidays.

Set up in the heart of Toulouse, le Marché de Noël is an arrangement of more than one hundred little bungalows at Place Capitole. Open November 27 through December 27, the market is almost always bustling. Even if you’re not looking to do any shopping, the market is a place to walk around, admire the Christmas lights and decorations, and socialize with friends and family. Like many holiday traditions, le Marché de Noël radiates a magical, cozy, homey-feeling.

Christmas Market lights

If you are browsing for some stocking stuffers, many vendors offer a variety of gifts (jewelry, scarves and hats, soap, games, souvenirs, and other knick-knacks), some of which include hand-made products made by local artisans.

However, the market also has many food vendors. I think this is what charmed the American students the most.

Among the food vendors, you have the traditional gastronomy: Toulouse-produced honey, cheese, chocolate, pastries, foie-gras, etc., that you can take home with you. And you have several restaurants that sell dishes that are hot and ready to eat with your friends and family at the market.   I’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite dishes below.

Saucisse Paysanne (Sausage Sandwich)

Sausage is a very traditional food found in Toulouse. At this particular vendor, you can order a grilled sausage-baguette-sandwich with onions and peppers. If you’re feeling adventurous, the chefs also offer a sausage made from the cow’s liver.

A saucisse paysanne vendor

Aligot

This dish is crowd-pleaser. Imagine mashed-potatoes whipped together with a lot of cheese. What you get is a stringing, cheesy, starchy heaven. I petition to bring the Aligot tradition to the US.

Hmmm yum !

Tartiflette

The tartiflette is also a potato dish: a layered casserole with potatoes, onions, crème fresh, and lots and lots of cheese.

Vin Chaud

Warm wine is a popular tradition all over Europe. It’s a red wine that has been stewed with Christmas spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, etc.

The market also has several, not-so-traditional food vendors. These include: hamburgers, churros, and even some Nepalese and Tibetan dishes.

So moms and dads, there is no need to worry: we’ve been very well fed this holiday season.

– Mariette Aborn

“S.O.S… S.O.S…. I DON’T UNDERSTAND!” “CAN YOU PLEASE USE A RICHER VOCABULARY WITH MORE PRECISE TERMS?”

It would be impossible to say how many new words I’ve learned this semester. Some words are harder to learn, like the word for fulfilling, and others easier because of their utility, like corkscrew. Over the past four months I’ve tried to learn as many new words and expressions as possible, but learning new words is more than studying a vocabulary list.

A distinction between oral and written expression characterizes the French language. Writing follows the rules of formal language, but in conversation almost anything goes. Words and expressions can be oriented to a specific context or even be so familiar that they don’t have an established spelling. As a French learner, these nuances provide plenty of opportunity to make mistakes. For example, I understood the meaning of the phrase “c’estmarrant” correctly – it means that something is funny. However, a misunderstanding of the pronunciation led me to believe they were saying “c’estmarron” which directly translates to « it’s brown ». Another expression that I heard incorrectly is “à un moment donné” which means at a given moment or at some time. I had understood “à moment du nez” which would mean at a moment of nose, a realization I came to quite abruptly when my French friend laughed at me as I tried out my new expression.

While « à unmoment donné » is an established expression, I also discovered a whole slew of interesting slang words. My favorite expression I learned is “chipote,” a word that was spelled four different ways for me by four different French. I first heard the expression when my theater professor was talking about politicians, which in French roughly translates to “political men.” A student offered that the professor might say instead “political men and women” to which another student yelled “oh you, you chipotes”. The closest expression we have to this expression would be “oh you’re splitting hairs” and has become quite useful for me.

The French also borrow English expressions. For them, “shotgun” designates any action first come, first-served. For example, a list with limited spaces to go on a trip would say that the spaces would be “distributed by shotgun.” In this case, the French understood the idea of the word shotgun when applied to a seat in a car as we use it, and they applied this meaning to other contexts.

In all, despite my mistakes, I’m leaving France with an enriched informal and formal vocabulary that I can pull out “à un moment donné.”

– Olivia Laing

After having mastered the crowded metro backpack shuffle, figuring out that the « soorawefnjipwef ?» muttered by the barista actually means «for here or to go?» and successfully completing the task of finding the well-hidden class schedules at the Mirail, one French survival skill continues to escape me : navigating restaurants.

I find myself utterly bewildered upon first entering a French restaurant because the rules that govern them are different in France (of course) and change from one restaurant to the next. And so, in an effort to transform the implicit into explicit, I’ve put together a guide, inspired by the multitudes of mistakes I’ve made during my time in France.

First: Where do I sit?

Most of the time, in cafés and bars, it’s up to you to choose your table, so be confidant and sit down! In restaurants, go directly to the server and ask for a table.

It’s rare to see handy signs like this in France !

Second: Where do I order?

After you’ve found a seat, the server usually comes to give you the menu. Take note: from time to time in cafés and bars (and Y Restaurant, which I recommend strongly, on Rue des Filatiers), when the menu is posted outside, the server will assume you have already looked at it and chosen.

Another exception: fast food places. If you’re in the mood for a kebab, calzone or burrito, go to Nan Kebab (open on Sundays- almost unheard of! Rue des Filatiers), Pizza Lopez (Place des Carmes) or Coatl (also on Rue des Filatiers). In this type of restaurant, you order at the counter, find a table and the server will bring you your food.

Rue des Filatiers where you’ll find all types of restaurants !

Third: Where do I pay the bill?

The most important thing to know: unlike in the United States, patrons can stay as long as they like and so the server will never bring you the bill if you don’t ask for it. I learned this the hard way when I spent almost three hours at a Lebanese restaurant waiting for the check… Finally, I went up to the counter to ask, where I discovered that’s where you usually pay in cafés, brasseries and bistros. In classier restaurants, the server will almost always bring the check to the table. If you have no idea where to pay the bill, keep in mind that even the French don’t always know. It’s completely normal to ask the server, who probably already knows that you’re not French, so you have nothing to hide.

Et voilà! For those who still feel intimidated by this series of exchanges, I recommend the haut-cuisine of Carrefour – it’s always self-serve and you pay at the door.

Carrefour

-Liam Fuller

The Georges Labit Museum is a museum of oriental art that is at 17 rue du Japon. Georges Labit;a man interested in ethnology, world religions, and art; founded the museum in 1893. The museum’s collection is a little modest, from my point of view, because I come from the greater New York area and I’m used to the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art. But with this lack of size in the collection, the museum makes up for it with the quality and diversity of its pieces.From my point of view, it’s refreshing to visit a museum specialized in Eastern art because museums in the Western world, in general, focus on Western art, with a tiny section of Eastern art, if any at all.

One can compare this museum with the Museum du Quai Branly in Paris, which was named the museum of first arts, which has a connotation that its articles are the first examples of art (which, in my opinion, connotes that they’re primitive) even if the took place during the same time period as impressionism, post-impressionism, or modern art (which were very influenced by Eastern art and by Eastern subjects in a certain way, i.e. Picasso, Basquiat, Degas, Monet, Toulouse-Lautrec, or Gauguin). One must ask why Western art piece and Eastern art pieces are not on the same exhibit if they took place at the same time. I learned from this visit that Eastern art is as detailed and thoughtful as Western art but it’s shown in a separate section like it’s not worthy of sharing the same room as Western art. It’s a shame because I’m sure this museum does not have the same amount of visitors as the Museum des Augustins. In the Georges Labit Museum, multiple countries are represented, which shows different styles. There, one can see the styles of East Asia, South Asia, South-East Asia, and Egypt. My favorite pieces were the Book of the Dead, the bronze cranes, the gold Buddha, and the Indian stele. The architecture of the building is ornate, with an Arabic influence, which shows arabesques and horseshoe arches. Also, there were pretty gardens which featured bamboo. My visit to the Georges Labit Museum was very agreeable and I think it’s worth it to go there.

Indian stele