A Very French Welcome
It's a well-known stereotype that French people love to protest. Like all stereotypes, some national clichés ring truer than others.
After having had all but one of my classes cancelled in my first week studying at Sciences Po Lyon, this is one I'm inclined to agree with. For international students starting at Sciences Po Lyon, it's striking how politically engaged the students are here.
The university is home to not just one but two student unions, as well as an eclectic mix of issue-based societies:
- catcalling awareness
- homelessness support
- blood donation drives
- refugee language-teaching groups
This strong political culture is visible throughout the campus. Many classrooms have red student union stickers stuck to whiteboards or under the desks.
Author's summary: Studying at Sciences Po Lyon reveals a strong French protest culture.