❝ My Language Learning Journey - Venla in Aix-en-Provence ❞
Hello everyone!
I’m happy to see you again for a new story in our My Language Learning Journey series!
In this series, Erasmus+ students or European Solidarity Corps volunteers share their mobility experiences and how they learned French.
Today, I’d like to introduce you to Venla, a student from Finland spending a year in Aix-en-Provence as part of an Erasmus+ exchange.
Enjoy reading!
Hi Venla, could you please introduce yourself?
Hi! My name is Venla, I’m 21 and I’m from Finland. I’m doing an Erasmus+ exchange in Aix-en-Provence for one year. I’m studying at Sciences Po Aix.
Why did you choose France for your exchange?
I had already learned a bit of French before and I wanted to improve, especially my speaking skills. I chose Aix-en-Provence because it was the southernmost destination. In Finland, it’s cold, so I wanted sunshine and something different!
Also, I was really interested in the courses offered in Aix.
How did you adapt to the French language?
At university, my classes are in English. But I also take French lessons, which help me.
I have a lot of Spanish and English friends, but not really French friends… So I think I’ve improved a bit, but it’s not as easy as I expected. With Erasmus+, you meet people from all over, so you often end up speaking English.
Maybe I’m underestimating myself… I feel like I haven’t improved much, but actually, I probably have!
Erasmus+ really helps you progress, but you also need to put in the effort. You have the opportunity to improve — but you have to want it and make it happen.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to learn a language?
You have to know that it’s not always easy. Even if you’re in a country where people speak the language, you still have to work on it yourself.
For me, it helped to mix different methods: taking lessons, listening to podcasts, reading, watching series in French…
And above all, don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
When you start learning a language, you often focus on grammar and vocabulary, but I think there’s not enough emphasis on speaking. I believe it’s important to start speaking right from the beginning — that way, you get used to it and become less afraid.
What do you think of Aix-en-Provence?
I really like it! It’s not too big or too small. I love the size of the city. Life here is simple — everything is close by. I can get to university in 10 minutes by bus or tram. It’s also quite a safe city, I feel good here.
I enjoy the south of France, and there are lots of pretty little villages around Aix. I’ve done a lot of day trips, which was great. They’re places I never would have visited without this Erasmus+ exchange.
Where do you live?
I live in a student residence.
Personally, I like it. There are a lot of international students. We have meals together, do activities… The social life is great — I really enjoy it!
What did you enjoy most about your mobility experience?
My friends. I met really nice people from different countries. I love talking with them because we all have different experiences and perspectives. It’s so enriching.
What places would you recommend visiting?
Aix-en-Provence, of course!
Also, Montagne Sainte-Victoire — it’s a beautiful hike not far from Aix, I did it with my friends.
I like Marseille too — I’ve been there several times and I enjoy the big city vibe.
And all the little villages between Aix and Marseille — they’re really pretty!
What advice would you give to someone who wants to do an Erasmus+ exchange in France?
Speaking as a Finn — in Finland, everything is very organized. In France… a little less! So if you’re coming from Northern Europe to southern France, it’s good to know that beforehand!
Also, on social media, everything often looks amazing. And yes, Erasmus+ is great. But sometimes, you might feel a bit sad or tired — and that’s normal. Don’t compare yourself to what you see on Instagram.
Finally, you need to find a balance between traveling and taking time to relax. Erasmus+ isn’t just a trip — it’s a life experience.
What has this experience brought you?
I’ve learned to be more flexible. I’ve also improved my French — I’m really happy about that.
Before, I was quite introverted. Now, I feel more extroverted and open. This experience really helped me with that.
Would you like to add anything?
I think Erasmus+ is a great opportunity for everyone!
I loved stepping out of my comfort zone. Meeting different people with different perspectives — that’s what I liked most. It’s truly enriching.
Thank you so much, Venla, for sharing your story!
I hope Venla’s journey will inspire other students to take the leap and join the Erasmus+ adventure.
And if you’d like to share your mobility experience with the OLS community, feel free to message me!
See you soon for another interview,
Lilas, OLS Community Manager — French