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Interview - Emmanuelle Pichon, Palomar College
Emmanuelle Pichon from France is in her 2nd year, studying Aeronautical Operations and Management at Palomar College in San Marcos, California.
Why did you decide to study in the U.S.A.?
I had worked in the U.S.A. before but I wanted to experience the college vibe. Besides, my future career field is linked to the U.S.A.
Why did you choose this college?
I chose Palomar College because of their aeronautical sciences and I have no regrets whatsoever. The school is ideally located between San Diego and Los Angeles, not too far from the ocean and the climate is great. The school in itself is very friendly and I am having a great time studying and working there.
What do you like best?
I love the United States since I was 10 years old. People are more open, show their feelings more, and the will to succeed can get you anywhere you want.
What do you miss most?
French food and especially our large variety of bread and cheese. I also miss homemade food, especially my mom’s!
What was your biggest surprise?
I wasn’t expected life in California being so expensive.
How have you handled:
...Finances?
I have been working on-campus for 9 months now: first, as a tutor/mentor and now at the cashier’s office.
...Adjusting to a different educational system?
When in France, studying for my master degree, I had 50% of American teachers so the U.S. educational system isn’t new for me. The only thing maybe is that there are a lot of quizzes, multiple choice questions type tests and I am more used to essays.
What are your activities?
I travel a lot (I’ve been to New York, San Francisco and Reno). I also did one field trip to a museum in Los Angeles sponsored by the college.
How relevant is your U.S. education to your personal goals and to the needs of your country?
My career goal is to work for the French company I was working for in France, at its subsidiary here in California. My master in business and my diploma in aeronautical sciences will fulfill my needs in terms of knowledge that I need in my job.
What is your advice to other students who are considering a U.S. education?
The U.S.A. is a rich country where there is a lot to learn. The confrontation with so many different cultures is also a great learning experience.
Create your own chance because it will open your horizon and it’s always a plus on a resume to show that you completed the challenge to go in a foreign country by yourself. So far, my total time in the United States has reached 2 years and 4 months and I enjoyed every second of it!!!