The Real World

Right before coming to France two different sources reminded me (or rather told me for the first the time) that what the other assistants and I were doing (especially those who just graduated from college like me), was entering the real world and starting a first job-- just in a different country. I never thought about it in that way, but it is definitely true. Saying that, even though I've only been here a little over a week, there are a few things I have learned (or that have been reinforced) after entering the "real world” in France and here are a few of them:

1. Money makes the world go 'round.

*Of all people, I hate to be the one to say this, but it's really true. Life is made so much easier (especially starting a new life in foreign country) when you have money. It doesn't have to be a lot, but just enough to be sufficient and keep you from worrying too much. Sometimes if we don't have as much money as we would like, we end up trying to go for options that we think may be cheaper by waiting or jumping on an offer and often we end up spending more money because of it.

2. People very rarely have your best interest in mind.
   
   
   *As kind as people may seem, I would say that this holds true in general (except of course for people who you are very close to-- family, friends, etc.) For example, as welcoming as someone may appear when you're starting something new, whether it be a new job, renting a new apartment, starting a grad program at a university, starting a new hobby, etc., usually people are thinking of themselves first. Because of this, even if someone suggests something to you that seems to be a good option, really reflect and make sure it's right for you. What may seem great may just be a way to free themselves of responsibility in some way or make their own lives easier.
   
   
3. Communication is KEY. In matters of importance, know to what point you should be diplomatic without it being detrimental to yourself.

*I haven't really talked to anyone about this but my parents, but I've been having a bit of a problem with the apartment I'm in right now. It's great and the family I'm renting from is great, but it's very lonely at the moment. To save you a long story and prevent having all of my business on this site (if you want the full details email, facebook or Skype me) there was a miscommunication in terms of a roommate and at least for now I'm alone. I'm trying to find someone however I can (from language assistants who haven't arrived yet to students at the university here), but it's definitely a daunting task. I would have been spared a lot of trouble if I was forward and straight up with my wishes up front. Right now, I would say it is better to risk slightly offending someone than ending up in a situation where you're not the happiest.

Okay, enough of the pessimistic post. I promise the next one will be a pleasant one because there has been some great stuff going on this week as well. Pau is lovely but at the moment there is a good deal on my plate. For now send positive thoughts and prayers my way! I think I'm a great person. I don't smoke, I'm friendly, fun, neat but not super freak neat, don't smell, can cook pretty well, can hold a conversation and my French is pretty good if I say so myself. I think I would be a great catch as a roommate! If you guys know anyone else headed to (or already in) Pau for the year please talk me up. :-)