Dear Mum and Dad,
It’s hard to believe it’s already been almost a year since I started my exchange in Reims at Sciences Po. I still remember the whirlwind of emotions when I arrived in August 2024, excitement mixed with anxiety. Things didn’t begin smoothly; I faced an unexpected financial loss after falling victim to a housing scam. But somehow, through all that, life brought me three amazing roommates who’ve become like family. Together, we’ve shared not just a space but a mindset: one focused on supporting each other and living more consciously.
Reims is a city full of quiet beauty and rich heritage. From early on, I decided to travel as sustainably as possible. Cycling became my main way of commuting, helped by Reims’ accessible bike paths, and I now rely on walking and trams instead of short car rides. This not only reduced my carbon footprint but also helped me stay grounded in the local rhythm of the city, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action.
My roommates and I started a weekly tradition of visiting the open-air farmer’s market with our reusable jars and canvas bags. We buy seasonal, unpackaged produce and use it to cook shared vegetarian meals. It’s our way of embracing Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, while reducing our plastic waste and trying out traditional French recipes in sustainable ways. We even started composting vegetable peels on our small balcony garden, it’s not much, but it feels right!
Beyond campus, I’ve taken the opportunity to engage with the wider community. I currently volunteer with the UNICEF local committee in Reims as a Communications Assistant. It’s given me the chance to support youth-led initiatives on education, sustainability, and inclusion. Through campaigns and local events, I’ve been able to contribute to Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and even take part in activities for World Youth Day. It’s been deeply fulfilling to apply what I’m learning at university to something that has a real social impact.
What this year has shown me is that sustainability isn’t a checklist. It’s a mindset, one that involves conscious choices, community engagement, and a willingness to adapt. Despite the challenges, I’ve grown so much here. My exchange has become more than just an academic adventure, it’s a lesson in resilience, responsibility, and care for the world we’re part of.
Missing you both always. I’ll call soon, and yes, I’ll send pictures from our next balcony harvest!
Love,
Anoushka
References:
[1] UN Sustainable Development Goals Overview
https://sdgs.un.org/goals
[2] Goal 13 – Climate Action
https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal13
[3] Goal 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production
https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal12
[4] Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities
https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal11
[5] Goal 15 – Life on Land
https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal15
[6] Simple DIY Natural Cleaning Recipes
https://www.wwf.org.uk/blogs/how-make-your-own-eco-friendly-cleaning-products
[7] Zero Waste Europe – Reuse & Refill Movement
https://zerowasteeurope.eu/what-is-zero-waste/
[8] Citura – Public Transport in Reims (Trams, Buses, and Cycling)
https://www.citura.fr/
[9] World Youth Skills Day (July 15)
https://www.un.org/en/observances/world-youth-skills-day
