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For Kennedi Tichy ’26, a business management major at ����ר��’s Lubin School of Business, studying abroad in Lyon, France, was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. From the moment she started at ����ר�� in 2022, Kennedi knew she wanted to explore the world through education. Her decision to choose Lyon—the culinary capital of France—was driven by curiosity and a desire to challenge herself.

"I didn't speak a lick of French or even know anything about Lyon, but as I put in more research, learning that it is the culinary capital of France, the third largest city in the country, and more, I was determined to study there," Kennedi shared. What started as a leap into the unknown quickly became a life-changing journey.

As the only student from ����ר�� in her Spring 2024 cohort at the Centre d'Études Franco-Américain de Management (CEFAM), Kennedi’s experience was as challenging as it was rewarding. “It was a little overwhelming going to a new country all on my own, but the second I arrived, I was so eager to see what the city had to offer.”

“I traveled on the weekends to different countries...I am forever grateful for all of the experiences and memories I gained studying abroad.”

At CEFAM, Kennedi found a welcoming academic environment. “The university was small but had excellent staff and students, making the transition into a new school very easy. I was very social and ended up meeting and befriending people from all over the world,” she recalls.

Kennedi’s weekends were filled with adventures across Europe, from Barcelona to Copenhagen and Switzerland. “I traveled on the weekends to different countries...I am forever grateful for all of the experiences and memories I gained studying abroad.”

One of her most memorable moments was navigating Lyon’s renowned culinary scene. Dining at bouchons, family-owned restaurants offering traditional Lyonnaise dishes, gave her a deeper appreciation for French culture. “I adapted to French dining customs, which emphasize leisurely meals and savoring each course,” she explained. This cultural immersion helped Kennedi connect on a deeper level with her surroundings.

While language barriers presented challenges, Kennedi embraced the discomfort. “My biggest challenge was not speaking French...but I tried my best to learn by practicing with friends and using common greetings.” Whether taking a Bachata class in French or navigating daily life, Kennedi’s resilience and openness transformed obstacles into opportunities for growth.

Beyond the academic and cultural experiences, Kennedi’s time in Lyon left a lasting impact on her future goals. “I built relationships with local students and professionals that created a network I can tap into for future career opportunities. These connections helped me understand the importance of networking in a global context.”

Kennedi encourages fellow students to take advantage of ����ר��’s study abroad opportunities. “I know it may seem overwhelming and scary, but it is absolutely WORTH IT to go. Life is so short, and an opportunity like this is too good to pass on. Approach unfamiliar situations with curiosity rather than apprehension.”

For students interested in exploring similar life-changing experiences, visit ����ר��’s Study Abroad Office and attend a Study Abroad Fair. You never know what adventures await you!