AFAM: Hello, Bailey. Thank you for agreeing to answer our questions. Please tell us a few words about yourself.
Bailey:
Howdy, my name is Bailey Sizemore, and I am a Mechanical Engineering Senior at Texas A&M University. I enjoy running, reading, and traveling.
AFAM: could you please let us know about how you first heard about Arts et Metiers and the program on the Aix campus?
Bailey:
I first heard about this program through my friend Jensen McMurray, who also went on the trip. I have always wanted to do a semester exchange, and this program is unique because the credits transfer directly to count towards my degree.
AFAM: in a few words, if you may, how would you describe the difference between your studies at Texas A&M and in Arts et Metiers ( subjects, teaching style, your classmates etc)?
Bailey:
The studies at Texas A & M are more theory-based, while at Arts et Metier, the school is more hands-on with lab work. I enjoy this type of schoolwork more because I am a hands-on learner, so learning how to weld and cast is a skill I will have for the rest of my life. I believe I met friends similar to mine at home, which was awesome to know that I can meet people like me in different ways all over the world. Students in France are better equipped to the world around them because all students must study abroad, while in America, it is not a requirement.
AFAM: when speaking about studying/working in a different country, people would speak about culture shock. Any examples of a culture shock experience that you had in France?
Bailey:
Everyone in France is aware of the nutrition and environment around them, while we do not pay attention in America. The bread and market food are exceptionally fresh. Not having a car for 5 months was also a challenge because I couldn’t ever just hop in my car.
AFAM: what did you like the most about your French experience?
Bailey:
The friends we made and the people we met were the best part. They made the exchange so much more enjoyable—and, of course, wine, baguettes, and cheese.
AFAM: what was the most challenging part of your French experience?
Bailey:
Definitely, my ability to speak French I learned after going, so reading signs, shopping in stores, and ordering food was challenging at the beginning. I also did miss my family, and it was hard to miss important events at home, but I was able to Facetime in!
AFAM: anything about your future plans that you would like to share with us?
Bailey:
I am currently looking to get my Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering.I am working on a patent for Biomedical Devices. I now want travel to be a piority, so I am always looking for the next adventure. Also, I plan to return to Aix in January to see my friends.
AFAM: any piece of advice you would give to American students willing to study at Arts et Metiers graduate engineering school?
Bailey:
My most significant piece of advice would be to embrace it all simply. Embrace the unknown, be open-minded, and . Everyone is very nice and helpful, which was a big reason why my exchange was so enjoyable.
AFAM: thank you, Bailey and have a wonderful day!
St Victoire mountain near Aix-en-Provence
At the café in Aix
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