Laura, 23, is a German student doing her third year of a law degree on the ERASMUS programme at the University of Guyana. Here we take a look at her passion for foreign cultures.
Tell me a bit about yourself?
My name is Laura and I'm 22 years old. I come from a small town in the north of Germany, but since I was young I've wanted to broaden my horizons by learning other languages and becoming interested in other cultures. I'm very independent, but I'm also very open-minded. I was lucky enough to live in Colombia for a year to learn Spanish. I worked in an NGO, which was an unforgettable experience. It was an experience that gave new meaning to my life and motivated me to pursue new dreams, both professionally and personally.
What are you studying?
I'm in my third year of Law. I'm studying international subjects in French Guiana.
You were born in Germany and did some of your studies there - why did you come to study in French Guiana?
I wanted to have an ERASMUS experience that was a bit different from the well-known ones in Germany. Having already had several experiences living abroad, I know that the best way to really learn a language and get to know a culture is to share it with the locals. I certainly wanted a French-speaking experience, but above all I wanted to experience student life like any other student in French Guyana.
Why Guyana and not another French-speaking country?
My main motivation for choosing French Guiana over another French-speaking country was my interest in the relationship between mainland France and its overseas territories, as well as French Guiana's relationship with its borders and the rest of South America.
What do you think of French Guiana?
I think it's an area rich in biodiversity that seems to be a blend of French culture and South American lifestyle. The people I've met so far have been very welcoming. I think I'll come back to French Guiana in the future, I've found the people very friendly and I love the biodiversity this territory has to offer.
What are your career plans?
I think I'm still defining my path. All the same, I can imagine myself one day specialising in criminal law and working for an NGO, preferably a feminist one. Above all, I'd like to discover other countries, particularly South American countries like Bolivia and Brazil.
What difficulties have you encountered in settling here?
Because this year is the first in terms of student exchanges at the University of Guyana, my arrival was a little unsettling. My biggest difficulty was finding suitable accommodation at a distance. What's more, the first few days in Cayenne were a bit difficult for me in terms of the language, as I wasn't yet at ease in French, but I already have experience of learning a new language, so a month after my arrival I'm already feeling much better. Despite the minor difficulties I've encountered, the people here have so far always been very open and helpful.
What recommendations would you make to other students who want to do what you've done?
I've only been here a month, but for the time being I'd tell them not to expect the fast-paced lifestyle of Europe's big cities. Life here has to be taken patiently, because the pace of life is quite simply different.
What are the differences with Germany?
The system in Germany is very different, as is its culture, which makes it difficult to compare. I noticed a big difference in terms of student participation in lessons and their relationship with teachers. There is a real exchange between students and teachers, an openness to discussion, analysis and participation. In Germany, students often prefer to study at home rather than attend lectures, which inevitably ends up having a negative effect on student life on campus.
