22nd June 2008

Subject: Introductions and Preparations

Finally exam results are back and all of the forms have been sent, I’ve even received my confirmation of acceptance to the ENSCL (Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Lille) in France. It’s been so long since I applied for the Chemistry with a Year in Europe course that I had begun to believe that I would never get to France, but four years later and it’s all happening and I don’t know how I feel! I’m excited, certainly, but it’s mixed with apprehension and oscillates between the two. I’m worried that when I get there I’ll just feel lost and confused but it’s all a part of the challenge.

The application process started in March and is still going on, it has been simple compared to the arduous process of applying to do a year in Industry like so many of the chemistry three students, but there are so many forms! I’m surprised that out of the whole of the chemistry course only two of us are taking a year in Europe, that’s partly why I’m writing this journal, I know quite a few people who changed their mind which is a shame because it’s such a good opportunity. I hope that by writing this journal I can give more information as I think the lack of it over the years puts people off. I came to the conclusion that there’s no point in worrying, ‘que sera sera’ as they say!

I think being a chemistry student spending fourth year abroad, rather than a language student spending third year abroad has made the whole process more difficult. A lot of the information is catered towards language students who have to take courses and pass exams for credits, I’m still not sure exactly what I’m doing but all of my assessed work is sent by Edinburgh and I’m mainly doing lab work but I can go to courses and I think I’m taking a few first year chemistry ones and Japanese and they offer an intensive French course when you arrive!

I’ve been really impressed with the ENSC Lille so far, compared to our education system it seems so much better, to get into the école students have to do two foundation years after their baccalaureat and then they take two languages and business studies along side their degree. It may not be as good as it sounds but it will be interesting to experience a different stystem.

Hopefully this journal will be of use to people who cannot decide if they want to go abroad or not, I doubt it will all be plain sailing but i’m determined to make the most of it and take the chance to improve my practical chemistry skills, my french language skills and maybe my CV as well. I will be arriving in France around the thirtieth of August, I don’t even know what accomodation I will have but there’s no point in worrying about that now and I will keep you updated on all of the highs and lows !

Until next time....