Fabio Scetti, 2008 Alumnus (Italy)
Fabio Scetti, an Italian with a passion for linguistics, studied Applied Foreign Languages (LEA) at Sorbonne University. Now a researcher at McGill University's Centre for Interdisciplinary Research on Montreal, he also teaches linguistics at the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR). In this interview, he talks to us about his time at Sorbonne University and shares his memories of life in Paris.
“This experience changed everything: it opened me up to the world and to languages, making Paris my 'satellite city' where I could live, and from which I could travel to Portugal, Spain, Poland, England and Canada.”
What inspired you to choose Sorbonne University and France for your studies?
I did an Erasmus+ exchange to Paris from Milan in 2004, and then decided to return in 2006 to continue my studies at Sorbonne University. I was attracted by the opportunity to study in French and to obtain an international degree from this university. This experience changed everything: it opened me up to the world and to languages, making Paris my 'satellite city' where I could live, and from which I could travel to Portugal, Spain, Poland, England and Canada.
What is a memory or experience that stuck with you from your time at Sorbonne University?
I have a vivid memory of the academic administrator of the Department of Applied Languages when I registered for my master's degree at Sorbonne University in 2006. That day, despite her heavy workload, she made a point of seeing me straight away. She took the time to guide me through all the steps I needed to take and to chat with me, patiently answering every question I had. After that, I came back to see her from time to time, always touched by her kindness and availability.
What were your first impressions when you arrived in France?
I loved wandering through Paris on my own. Wherever I went, I felt like the master of the world, with the whole city at my fingertips.
What ‘French’ habit or peculiarity have you adopted?
I can't stop using the word 'pardon' every time I have to squeeze past people. I even do it in Milan, and the looks it provokes are often very funny!
What would you say to former students to encourage them to join the alumni network?
I would simply tell them to go at least once. From the very first moment, memories of Sorbonne University came flooding back. For example, I recently attended an event organized by the Québec Alumni Club in Montreal, where the atmosphere was warm and the attendees friendly. We shared our stories over a glass of wine and some appetizers, making it a sociable and enriching experience that I enjoyed.
