Liam Umbs, a Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) student, recently shared his transformative experience studying abroad at Sciences Po in Paris through the Penn Abroad Semester Abroad program. As a student deeply engaged in critical thinking and global perspectives, Liam’s journey in Paris became more than just an academic experience—it turned into a lesson on mindfulness, observation, and the art of slowing down.

Arriving in Paris with a packed itinerary of museums, monuments, and must-visit landmarks, Liam initially approached the city as a series of boxes to check off. However, the demands of daily academic life and the realization that rigid schedules limited his immersion in Parisian culture prompted a shift. He began to embrace spontaneity, taking unplanned detours through charming streets, discovering hidden boulangeries, and observing the unhurried pace of Parisian life.

For Liam, whose studies focuses on understanding societal structures, political systems, and economic behaviors, this newfound perspective carried significant insights. He noticed how Parisian culture prioritizes time, community, and presence over efficiency and constant productivity—lessons that go beyond textbooks and classroom debates.

In his reflection, Liam noted that while Paris is often romanticized as an idyllic dream city, his experience revealed a more authentic truth: Paris is a living, breathing place, filled with ordinary people navigating their lives. His spontaneous walks and quiet moments in cafes allowed him to witness this reality up close, offering him a deeper understanding of cultural dynamics and human behavior—core themes in PPE studies.

Liam’s story serves as a reminder that sometimes the most valuable lessons come not from structured plans but from moments of stillness and curiosity.

Read Liam’s full reflection here: Getting Lost in Paris: Rediscovering the Joy of Exploration