Lessons from Emily in Paris.

Screencap from Emily In Paris

Did you know? Lily Collins, star of the Netflix original Emily in Paris, actually conducted an intensive case study on American college study abroad students in order to prepare for her role in the TV show and really get into character. (Actually, just kidding. But it’s believable, right?)

The meticulously thought out outfits, the cringeworthy Instagram captions, and constant updates to social media in the show–these are the same canon events that college juniors go through when venturing on their own quintessential study abroad journeys. 

We’re always told over and over again that as Americans, that we have no culture. As tourists abroad, locals can supposedly tell right away what we are. We’re too loud, wearing the wrong clothes, going to the wrong clubs– we’re just not “cultured” enough and that’s enough reason for the locals to turn their noses up at us and for us trying to hide every sign that we’re American. 

But here’s an idea–maybe it’s not actually that fucking deep. Why do I have to compromise my individuality and uniqueness because someone else has deemed it tacky or too American? Like oh my god, time to socially shun me because I wore athleisure in Europe! God forbid you step outside the lines someone else has drawn. 

So, while on the surface, Emily in Paris may seem like a silly little show about friendship and romance, it’s actually a lot more than that. It’s about going outside of your comfort zone and seeking acceptance in a place that isn’t so forgiving. And while Emily may have ditched her Chicago boyfriend and learned to take advantage of the French two-hour lunch break, she still stayed true to her original self from when she ventured to France in the first place. And, maybe there’s something valuable to take away from that.

It’s okay to go somewhere else, and maybe not look like your stereotypical European citizen. You don’t have to buy a whole new wardrobe to have a great time in Florence, or London, or wherever you choose to go. And, this is not to scorn differences in culture of course– that’s a whole different story and you would be very sucky,  if you were reading this just to get a free pass to disrespect actual cultural norms and traditions. But, also don’t feel pressured to start chain smoking cigarettes because your French roommate does. 

Learn from our bestie Emily– remember it's your experience, don’t waste it trying to change everything about yourself.