Romanticizing Academia in Lacoste
Written by Olivia Longoria. Graphic by Isabella Anderson.
When deciding to go to college, there are a lot of things to consider. To name a few, the major you want to pursue, clubs on campus and dorm life. But let’s be honest; another important factor is choosing a place where you can look out of a third-story window of a historic building (ideally while it’s raining) and romanticize academia. And it is certainly easier to do that in France.
It’s simple: romanticizing coursework helps to avoid burnout. Think, “Wouldn’t this assignment be much easier to complete if I was, say, at Hogwarts watching the snow or in The Shire sitting in the grass under the sun?” Rory Gilmore from Gilmore Girls is a classic go-to character for seeking academic inspiration. And, of course, who better motivates you to read and write than Jo March? At SCAD Lacoste, the romanticization genre would be something like Elio from Call Me By Your Name, but he’s in Design School in France. In this idyllic Medieval town, you can stroll down cobblestone streets and focus on your craft while basking in pastoral beauty.
Students often choose to take two classes instead of three, giving them the freedom to travel to other places on the weekends and really experience their surroundings. Students who attended the summer session mentioned that classes were not easier in content just because it was summer, but, it was certainly easier to remain motivated when surrounded with beauty. Nothing like a little provencal French culture to get you going. Another student who attended mentioned particularly enjoying waking up to a stunning view, as well as the small community living.
So, if you’re on the fence about studying abroad, this is a sign to take the leap! Pro tip- bring extra coins for laundry.
