Giselle Rodriguez is a rising senior at St. Edward’s University studying Environmental Science and Policy. She aspires to work in animal conservation, hopefully somewhere abroad. Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Giselle has never traveled outside of the United States. She is the first in her family to really step out of her comfort zone and tap into her independence. She hopes that her decision to come to Paris inspires those around her- including herself.
Q: What’s been your biggest struggle while in France?
A: Feeling comfortable. I always assume people are staring at me, thinking ‘oh she’s such an American’.
Q: How about your biggest strength?
A: I think stepping outside of my comfort zone. I’ve noticed that in these past couple of days, I am more open to going up to someone and asking for a table in French. I feel like I am typically outgoing, but only in English. And even then, it still takes me a while. But if there’s someone more outgoing than me, I won’t be outgoing, I’ll let them do the talking.
Q: You mentioned that you’re studying Environmental Science and Policy, what’s it been like taking the art of traveling course? Is this something really new to you?
A: Taking the art of travel course has been amazing, because most of my classes are science and controversy based on my major. So this has been a really relaxed and fun experience, I don’t have to think that much. I’ve always wanted to be someone that writes and draws. Yesterday, I came to API and didn’t realize we were not meeting anymore. Usually, I would’ve gone back home but I was like you know what let me go to a park. And so I went to a random park and just journaled! I also think this course and experience is making me realize I would like to work abroad. I’ve always wanted to do it, but I never wanted to be too far from my family. But now I realize I would love to be abroad for a year or so.
Q: Who are you when no one is looking?
A: I feel like I’m definitely shy around others. Especially If i don’t know them, I hang back a lot. But when I’m alone, I am more relaxed. I read, I sleep. I guess when no one is looking, I am my true self. I think I’m like that around certain people too, like my family and boyfriend. I’m more silly I guess
Q: What’s the best advice you have ever received?
A: To study abroad. People always told me to study abroad but I always thought well if it doesn’t happen – oh well. But I’m so glad I did.
Q: If you could give your past self advice, what would you tell them?
Be more outgoing, make more friends. My sophomore year I got an apartment off campus and it stifled me when it came to making friends and being apart of the campus environment- and I didn’t realize it until now. So if i could, I would’ve told her to be on campus.
Q: What do you miss about home and what will you miss about Paris?
A: I miss my boyfriend, my family, everything. Sometimes I lay down to go to sleep and think I wouldn’t mind being home right now. But I’m so glad I am here, I am really happy I’m here. It reminds me of a time I went to summer camp, and every night I would cry because I wanted to go home. But once it was over, I looked back and was grateful I stayed because it was a great experience. And as for Paris, I think I’ll miss the architecture and feeling like a badass when I use the metro.
Q: We talked about how your family doesn’t really travel a lot. So, what does this mean to your family?
A lot, since I am the only one that really travels. I took a trip to California before I came here, and they couldn’t wrap their heads around why I wanted to go there. But I think they’re very excited for me…they’re probably terrified too if I’m being honest.