Ordinary Strasbourg Life

So far, the usual routine as been anything but usual for me, being an American student. For example, the courses at the EM usually consist of a two-hour class that meets once a week. Other courses can be only half a semester or even three days. The classes that meet three days during the semester meet for eight hours a day for those days. No matter how long the duration of the class, it is normal to have one exam which is the final. This is incredibly intimidating to me but it ensures that I am going to study consistently throughout the semester. My three French courses are taught completely in French because there are students from all over the world which means there is no other common language. I am amazed how much my French has improved in just a couple of weeks.
Other differences involve being able to ride my bike three miles to school everyday without worrying about being ran over by angry drivers. It's so nice to ride through the small town of Robertsau that is picturesque because of the beautiful flowers, gardens, and fields.Also, I love crossing the river into downtown. I feel so European! When I ride by the river I see the European Parliament, European Council, and the Court of Human Rights which is surreal.
I could definitely see myself living in Strasbourg after this trip. It is historic while being urban, cultural, and interesting. There is always something to do and many great people to meet every time I go downtown.
-Rachel Cooper