Julianna Johnson
Julianna Johnson received her Masters in International Relations with a focus on International Communications at the Institut de Traduction, Interpretation et Relations Internationales at the University of Strasbourg.
Tell us about your journey to France
I studied abroad in Aix-en-Provence during my undergraduate degree and fell in love with France. After I returned to California, I knew I wanted to go back to France as soon as I could. I got a job with the French all-inclusive resort Club Med after college, speaking French on a daily basis. Shortly after, I decided to return to France as an English assistant through TAPIF (Teaching Assistant Program in France) in Sarreguemines, in the Lorraine region, for a year. During that time, I visited Strasbourg and knew I wanted to live there.
What did you study ?
I applied and was accepted to ITI-RI (Institut de Traduction, Interpretation et Relations Internationales) at l’Université de Strasbourg. I was interested in working in the field of International Education so I decided to pursue a Masters in International Relations with a focus on International Communication. The program was taught mainly in French, but with a couple of classes and projects in English. Some highlights of my program were a Model UN simulation with a school in Germany, a class trip to Belgium to visit some of the EU Institutions, working on a marketing campaign for le Pays de Saverne, contributing to ITI-RI’s annual magazine, and completing two internships in the International Relations Office at EM Strasbourg Business School. During my program, I made personal and professional connections that last to this day.
How’d you spend your free time ?
Outside of school, I loved going to local events and exploring the Alsatian region. Some friends and I went on a hike and found ourselves at a restaurant on top of a hill that served us a 7 course meal. I participated in the Slow-Up, a day when people could explore the Route des Vins on any non-motorized vehicle or by foot. I did the Strasbourg half marathon two years in a row and discovered new parts of the city during my training. I went to as many concerts and festivals as I could and became even more enamored with French music. I felt like I was a resident of Strasbourg and not just a visitor.
What are you doing now ?
My aspiration to work in International Education after my graduate degree became a reality; I’ve worked in IE for over 8 years and am currently a Program Specialist with University of Washington Study Abroad, working with inbound and outbound exchange students. For anyone considering pursuing a graduate degree in France, I highly recommend it. It can be a challenge navigating the various French systems, but the unique experience is worth it!
