My trip to France was an amazing and unforgettable experience. As a multimedia student, I had the opportunity to attend school there and see how students learn in a different environment. I explored a new culture, tried different foods, learned how to use new equipment, and met new people. This experience helped me become more independent and made me realize what path of design I would like to pursue. It’s something I will always remember.
I collaborated with a team of four students, one Canadian and three French, on a creative project based on the Belfry of Arras. The French students developed the concept for an event inspired by this historic monument, while we, as the Canadian team, focused on producing the visual content. After visiting the site and capturing our own photos and videos, I was responsible for designing the official promotional poster and an Instagram carousel.
I collaborated with a team of ten students, three Canadian and seven French, on a Web TV project called SAME OR NOT. The show explored the differences and similarities between French and Québécois cultures, focusing on lifestyle, food, and festivals. Over four days, we prepared all the assets needed for the presentation. I was responsible for designing the visual concept and creating the logo. During the presentation, I served as the director for the food segment and acted in the festivals segment.
After this exchange program, I gained a deeper understanding of event planning and the behind-the-scenes work involved in live shows. I had always had a general idea of how these processes worked, but being directly involved in the preparations confirmed that this is the field I want to pursue in the future. I especially enjoyed starting from a blank slate and helping transform ideas into a fully realized project. One of the biggest challenges I faced during the two weeks was the language barrier. Although I speak French in Québec, I initially struggled to follow the French students, who spoke very quickly in modern French. To adapt, I relied on hand gestures and other nonverbal communication to stay involved and collaborate effectively. Overall, this experience strengthened my problem-solving and teamwork skills and highlighted the value of adaptability and creative collaboration in bringing a project to life. It has solidified my desire to pursue a career in the design aspects of event planning.
I would like to sincerely thank the Vanier Foundation for supporting me on this trip. Their generosity made it possible for me to gain hands-on experience, explore new perspectives, and develop skills that will shape my future career. This opportunity has opened doors to experiences I would not have had otherwise and I am truly grateful for their investment in my growth and learning.
