Say bonjour to Adeline, a French exchange student who’s traveled over 5,000 miles to spend a year studying at our coastal campus.
Name: Adeline Masson
Year: Junior
Major: Political Science
Hometown: Nancy, France
Relationship Status: Single
Why did you choose to come to UCSB for your year abroad?
I knew that I wanted to come to the U.S., and the classes offered at UCSB seemed very interesting, but honestly, being able to get a great education while living right next to the beach is what really made me want to come here!
Are there any stereotypes about Americans that you’ve now realized aren’t true?
This is going to sound rude, but I would always hear the stereotype that Americans – even those attending college – are dumb. That’s not true at all, though, especially at this school! Everyone I’ve met is intelligent and genuinely cares about academics.
What’s the main difference between the social scene at American universities and the social scene at French universities?
Americans are much more friendly and open, and they really like to get to know people. They go to college not just for the learning experience, but for the social experience as well. At French universities, there are parties, of course, but students tend to only hang out with the people within their major. It’s not like that here, which I love!
Something you miss from France that can’t be found in the U.S.: Authentic French food! There aren’t many French restaurants here, and the ones that I have been to only serve really common French foods, not any regional specialties like choucroute or raclette, which are my favorites.
Something you will miss from the U.S. that can’t be found in France: There are so many things! Overall, I’ll miss the atmosphere of UCSB – the friendly people, the interesting classes, and the dependable professors and TAs who are always available to help.
Weirdest American phrase you’ve learned: It’s not exactly a weird phrase, but I’ve been finding myself saying the word “chill” a lot since I’ve come to UCSB.
TV shows you’ve binge-watched on Netflix: Netflix actually wasn’t available in France until last year! But now that I have access to it, I watch Parks and Recreation, Friends, New Girl, and Mad Men.
Favorite type of music: I usually listen to indie music – Beach House is one of my favorite bands. I also like pop artists like Sia.
Best restaurant in Isla Vista: Cafe Equilibrium, of course! I just get the classic crepe with Nutella because it reminds me of home. I also like Silvergreens because it’s healthy – well, kind of. They have really good burgers and smoothies, which are hard to find in France.
Most memorable moment of your time at UCSB so far: I’ve loved the little things like carving pumpkins on Halloween and eating Thanksgiving dinner with friends – anything that has allowed me to experience American culture and traditions.