Paris is the city of dreams. If you plan to head for Paris for a study period, perhaps a little reality check is in order. But my experience was a romantic one.
I paved my path to Paris through an exchange program. On arrival in Paris, I was constantly reminded of the official processes I had to complete—forms to fill in, meetings to attend—the list seemed endless.
Then the real work began. Once classes were underway, I found myself volunteering to do oral presentations and assignments first rather than last. This method proved to be very helpful.
Once I had finished classes for the week, I had an everincreasing list of museums to visit, neighborhoods to explore, and cafes to sit in. Maybe you can read books about Paris and talk to locals and other foreigners living there. But the one thing that reading a book or talking to someone cannot do is provide you with the experience of wandering Paris on foot. The people watching, the sounds of the city, and the colors as the seasons change, they all add to the ecstasy that I experienced in Paris as an exchange student.
After spending five months wandering through the charming neighborhoods, I fell in love with the atmosphere that came out from every open door and every spoken word. There is something comforting about walking to the market each Sunday to enjoy the beautiful display of fruits, vegetables and dairy products. There is warmth in saying Bonjour to the passersby.
On my last day in Paris, I confidently said “Bonjour Monsieur” as I passed the little store down the street. I guess the best part about going on exchange in Paris is falling in love with the city in your own way. And I know mine is unique and special to me—my own little pieces of Paris.
10. What does the underlined word “ecstasy” in Paragraph 4 probably mean?
A.Courage. | B.Imagination. | C.Happiness. | D.Depression. |
11. According to the passage, what left the author the deepest impression?
A.The friendly people he met in Paris. |
B.The special culture he experienced in the city. |
C.The academic achievement he made in his study. |
D.The presentations and assignments he did in class. |
12. Why did the author like walking to the market?
A.Because of the romantic locals. | B.Because of the pleasant weather. |
C.Because of the fresh vegetables. | D.Because of the warm atmosphere. |
13. What does the passage mainly tell us?
A.An exchange student’s life. | B.Charming neighborhoods. |
C.An exchange program. | D.A traveling experience. |