Sivaranjani Vaidyanathan
Hello, my name is Sivaranjani Vaidyanathan. My parents and I hail from South India. Inspired by one of my engineering professors, I chose France as my destination for higher studies. I completed my Bac+5 in Aerospace, Material Science and Management from IMT Mines Albi. I arrived in France in 2018 and now reside in the beautiful southern region of the country.
Coming to France was one of the best decisions I have ever made, despite the inevitable hardships along the way. This remarkable country has brought out the best in me, making me more resilient, independent, and patient while teaching me to appreciate life's little pleasures and establish healthy boundaries.
As a passionate traveler, France opened incredible doors to diverse landscapes and extraordinary culinary experiences. This country has completely spoiled me with its incredible varieties of cheese, exquisite pastries, and artisanal breads. It's no wonder France is celebrated for having one of the world's finest cuisines – the food here is absolutely amazing and truly lip-smacking! I have fallen in love with the charming café culture and the delightful apéro tradition that brings people together.
Surviving COVID while pursuing my degree presented significant challenges, as did navigating the complex bureaucracy of French administrative procedures. While I've grown accustomed to these systems now, the initial adjustment period was quite demanding. Like any international student far from home, I regularly find myself missing my parents, their home-cooked meals, beloved Indian snacks, and casual conversations with friends and family. The biggest hurdle I faced as an international student in France was the difficulty of relocating to different cities and encountering numerous apartment hunting scams – a frustrating reality many of us face.
My message to those just arriving in France: Patience is absolutely key. I secured every opportunity only after submitting hundreds of applications, so please don't lose hope during your journey. Learning French will significantly help you navigate administrative procedures with ease and open doors to meaningful connections with locals. Building a strong network will serve you well in the long run and create lasting professional and personal relationships.
Never pay anyone before apartment visit and never hesitate to ask for help.
Most importantly: Please learn to drive and obtain your PERMIS B (driving license). This will dramatically improve your mobility and independence in France.Final Thoughts
Thank you for this amazing initiative (Passerelle)! This is a wonderful opportunity for all of us to share our experiences and learn from one another. Together, we can build a strong, supportive community and network that helps uplift each other through our shared journey. I am truly happy to be part of this incredible community.