The existing cultural diversity in the university of Burgundy/ Franche-Comté (Université de Bourgogne Franche-Comté) which can be seen in the number of international students enrolled yearly as well as in the cultural activities proposed by the university such as the “Tour du Monde en 80 Plats”, is a strong point for the university. I have attended this event twice and it was a wonderful display of culture. Such diversity in culture may also be attributed to the fact that the institution houses one of the best French language learning centre in the country; the CLA (Centre de Linguistique Appliquée) which permits students to troop in from all parts of the world.

The dynamic nature of lectures also makes the university a great choice for students to explore, with campuses spread across the region; situated in Dijon, Montbéliard, Belford and Besançon and providing a large range of courses. For me, it is always a great experience having lectures in other cities aside Besançon where I live. I think that the location of such campuses in cities that are generally very calm is what makes the institution unique and ideal for learning. Research laboratories especially in the scientific fields allow for research in international languages especially in the English language and this adds value to research. I have taken a number of classes taught in English and they have been great. The major problem I have so far is with accessing books in English but still, this could be seen as a great advantage to those who are studying the French language, as they would have no choice but to read in French most of the time, thus improving their proficiency in the. Well, I was a student at the CLA before enrolling in for my PhD program in Information and Communication Sciences and the teachers at CLA were really awesome! The médiatique is also well equipped.

However, the student life in the university could be beefed up in order to provide for more social interactions and productive engagements. I believe students would profit better from better involvement in social activities. In my case, it has been difficult to interact with fellow students especially those from France. I find the nature in which hostels are built as a contributing factor to the poor levels of interaction. Generally, hostel residents only meet at the kitchen (that’s if they cook) or pass each other in the corridors. Many do not even know who their next-door neighbours are. There are no “common rooms” in every hostel where students could just sit and interact, read magazines or play indoor games, and perform other forms of recreational activity (together). I think there should be a more deliberate effort in creating a more dynamic student life. However, this could also be a cultural issue.

As for my research, it is my 3rd year now and I am privileged to have a study space in my laboratory. Privileged because some researchers I have met in the same university have told me they do not have office space. So far however the only major challenge my colleges and I have had is having to share an access key to the lab. Generally, though, the environment is very conducive for research and I love it.