I decided to study abroad in France because of the scientific opportunity to work with Dr. Sylvain Delzon and learn new techniques related to my research. I was also excited about the personal opportunity to immerse myself in French culture. While I was in France, I got to meet researchers from all over the world who were interested in the same concepts. I was able to learn from top scientists in my field and make friends with graduate students and postdocs who shared my passion for plant hydraulics. It taught me that science and curiosity can unify us, regardless of our country of origin.

During my stay in France, everyone was so warm and welcoming. One sunny day, the lab technician took me and another visiting researcher to visit the nearby seaside town of Arcachon. We had a delicious lunch of local oysters and visited Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe. Studying in France meant fulfilling a life-long goal of living abroad, resulting in new collaborators, friends, and wonderful memories.