My experience during the first half of my stay abroad has been incredibly rewarding and full of learning opportunities. I’ve truly enjoyed the challenges that come with adapting to a new work environment, especially exploring new software and digital tools that are essential in the field of architecture and urban planning. These experiences have not only improved my technical abilities but also helped me become more confident in using unfamiliar systems, which is a valuable skill for any future professional.
I’m currently involved in two exciting projects focused on urban development and urban design. One of them is located in Paris, which has given me the opportunity to explore the city and visit the site in person. This has been very enriching, as it allows me to better understand the urban context, architectural history, and current planning strategies of such a dynamic city. The ability to see the project site and connect it with the design process has made the work feel even more meaningful.
The second project is based in Cayenne, French Guiana. This has been particularly inspiring because it introduces me to a different cultural and environmental setting. Through this project, I’ve had the chance to learn about challenges such as flooding, social inequality, and the need for sustainable development in tropical climates. It’s been eye-opening to see how design and planning must adapt to regional conditions, and it has broadened my perspective on global architectural practice.
In addition to project work, I’ve also been helping to assess the operational needs of the office. This includes evaluating workflow processes and helping organize digital resources. These tasks have been a great learning opportunity, especially because I hope to start my own design practice one day. Gaining insight into how an office runs efficiently has been just as valuable as the design experience itself.
Another major area of growth for me has been language. I’ve been actively improving my French and can now participate in meetings and discussions with more confidence. Being able to communicate with colleagues in French has helped me feel more integrated into the team, and I hope to continue improving my language skills throughout the remainder of the internship.
Overall, I believe the objectives of the program are being met. I’m gaining technical skills, contributing to meaningful projects, learning about office operations, and improving my language abilities—all while working in a welcoming and supportive environment. If any adjustments could be made, I think more regular feedback sessions or design reviews could enhance the learning experience. I look forward to continuing this journey and building on everything I’ve learned so far.