(In case you’re wondering, yes this title does translate literally to “Hello MTV and welcome to my crib!”)

We’re nearing the end of my time in Paris (it’s fine, I’m fine, let’s not talk about it) so I figured I’d show you where the magic has happened this semester… Nights up until 4am working on presentations and papers in French, my own personal zumba classes thanks to YouTube, packing my bags for trip after trip, and so many Modern Family reruns. I didn’t have much to start with, but thanks to Gifi and some overpriced Monoprix cooking supplies, I turned my little box into my home for the semester. Yes i am excited to have a bed that is not on the floor and to experience real heating again, but this place will always hold a special place in my heart. Alors… Bienvenue!

The Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris hosts people all over the world who are studying, researching, etc. in Paris. The main building, Maison Internationale (left) has a gym, a library, a Crous restaurant, and more. My building is the Collège Franco-Britannique (right).

In the beginning…. One thin turquoise blanket and a lavender wall, two desks and chairs, a mini fridge, and way more storage than I needed. Interesting.

But check out this cute view of the courtyard behind my building! When the weather was nice, there were always people having picnics and just hanging out there.

The 14th arrondissement is a pretty quiet area, and while it seems a bit isolated at times, it’s really just more homey and has plenty going on. Pictured on the left is Parc Montsouris, which is right across the street from the CIUP complex, and pictured on the right is a photo I took at a nearby grocery store on my first night and an example of why Paris is just so lovable. Additionally, I’m in walking distance from Porte d’Orléans and Alésia, centers of many stores, fast-food restaurants, etc. And, if I try hard enough, I’m in walking distance from Place d’Italie and Denfert-Rochereau as well.

After a bit of work… Much more like home! Family members and Tulane/Chatham friends: see if you can spot yourselves in my photo collage!

Even the littlest trinkets made a big difference! I bought desk storage, pink containers, a plant, and a silver decorative placemat to brighten up the place. I also brought the banner spelling out my name and a number of photos, etc. from home. As you can see, this was taken around Halloween, when I got some decorations from Marks and Spencer to be more festive.

And, of course, my room would not be complete without a bit of adventure! I bought post cards from each of the places I visited (outside France) this semester and added to the collage each time I came home from a trip.

Having a lot of stuff doesn’t make a house a home, but having a few things that remind you of home and make you happy really does make a tiny box a home. Hope you enjoyed the tour!