01 Mar Class in America

Always wondered if what we saw in movies TV Shows were real? Definitely yes! A classroom is exactly like what it is represented on TV.

The room is actually big enough to fit maximum 40 tables : yes, it is the cliché of the single table with the little table where you can put your textbook or computer. All the students are using notebooks and pencils, computers are almost never allowed which is surprising as it is in France.

Students are actually calm during the class, they don’t talk to each other unless the professor asks to work in groups: another point that is really different from France – classrooms are usually chaos.

Moreover, something that surprised me is the fact that they can do whatever they want. For instance, they can arrive late, even 20 mins before the end of class just to be there for the attendance ; they eat in front of the lecturer which is rude from my perspective (and a lot of french people…).

Finally, for American students, when it is time to leave, it is time! Another point that catches my attention: when it is time to leave, they are packing their things to show the professor it is time. In France, students can do it if they are in a public university. But for private university, which is my case, it is unconceivable! The professor will look at you and urge you to go back to your seat.

Well, being in America and being able to attend class is an experience that I’m glad I was able to experience it.