Hi! My name is Madelyn Bouchard, and I am a senior majoring in political science with a focus in international relations. I spent my junior year studying with the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences at the University of Lille, in northern France. My global theme is Inequality and Human Rights, which I was able to further explore in a meaningful way while in Lille. During this time, I formed amazing friendships and made connections that I’m sure will last a lifetime. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been able to experience the Flemish culture of northern France, and have grown in more ways than I previously thought possible.

Touring a Flemish castle!

While there are so many positive things I could discuss about my Beyond the Classroom Experience, there are a couple moments that come to mind when I look back on the experience. For instance, with my faculty I was able to tour and participate in a seminar at the European Parliament, which included sitting in on a session and witnessing debate on the parliament floor. This was an amazing experience that allowed me to experience international diplomacy within the European Union, and gain a better understanding of EU operations. 

Additionally, I was able to visit the Carnival of Dunkirk for a day during the month-long celebration, which was an amazing insight into flemish-franco culture. The festival included lots of eccentric costumes and dancing in the street, but I was shocked to see that part of Carnival traditions included tossing herring from balconies into the crowds below! Going into this experience, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised by the rich culture of northern France. 

The Carnival of Dunkirk

Finally, as part of a trip with other international students, I was able to visit the gardens of Claude Monet in Giverny, France! This was truly a magical time, being able to witness the same gardens that inspired so many of Monet’s great works.

The gardens of Claude Monet

My Beyond the Classroom Experience was incredible, and something that I will remember for the rest of my life. I look forward to maintaining the connections I made there, and I will forever consider Lille my second home. I am immensely grateful for this opportunity as it was truly a life changing experience.