A De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) Architecture student has had work showcased at the world-famous Louis Vuitton headquarters.
Joseph Royle, currently in France for a year said: “It’s been simultaneously the most challenging and rewarding thing I’ve ever done in my life.”
Studying in Orléans, as part of an Erasmus+ placement year with #DMUglobal, Joseph showed designs for a pavilion structure to employees of the fashion giant.
He said: “My team and I showcased in particular a design where the employees can work, relax and eat.
“It was an intense experience to say the least, I had to introduce, explain and answer all questions in French.
“It was particularly nerve-racking; but by the end of it I became a lot more comfortable, it gave me a huge sense of pride to be able to communicate in such a strong way.”
The #DMUglobal opportunity has seen Joseph embrace a different lifestyle, something he is very appreciative of.
The 20-year-old continued: “Working and interacting with people from around the world has allowed me to learn how they work, you learn a lot about people’s work-ethic and punctuality.
“I’ve drastically improved my French on different levels and I’ve also learnt to be much more patient with everything in life, from people to parcel delivery."
The placement has also given Joseph the opportunity to travel mainland Europe, in just three months; he has visited Paris, Milan and Brussels, among others, and made plenty of international connections and friendships along the way.
He said: “I’ve made friends from all over the world now, I’ve been invited to visit them in India, Bali, Greece, Italy, Czech Republic and Spain to name a few.
“You get to meet so many different cultures and you immediately learn so much.”
#DMUglobal is the university’s programme which gives students the chance to experience different cultures throughout their degree, something which Joseph recommends to everyone. The Erasmus+ opportunity gives students the chance to spend a semester or year at one of DMU’s partner universities in Europe.
Joseph added: “I feel like future employers will be intrigued and see my placement as a thing of interest.
“I’d definitely consider working abroad in the future now, knowing that I’m more than capable of starting a new life in a different country.
“I’d say to students thinking of taking part, don’t hesitate, just do it, you’ll more likely regret not taking part.”
For more information on the opportunities #DMUglobal has to offer click here and join in the conversation on Twitter and Instagram using #DMUglobal.
Posted on Tuesday 2 February 2016