So it’s been about a month and a half since I have been back and I’m still not over my gap year (did I really live in Paris?). Every time I see something about Paris on my Twitter feed or look at old photos my heart sighs. I thought I would share some ways I keep my experience frais (fresh). 

1. Make something physical: Yes, the albums on Facebook and the countless #TBTs on Instagram are great, but the nostalgia that a physical photo brings can help you get back in the moment you took it. Now it’s easier than ever to print photos or you can consider investing in an instant camera. I have an Instax Mini and love being able to have a photo in my hands right away. There are tons of options online for creative ways to display your photos. I like clipping them to a string or hanging them in a simple frame. Also, consider framing post cards that you may have purchased as it’s a cheap way to capture your trip in images. 

2. Buy a Fragrance: The nose is really powerful: a scent can take us back to memories of our childhood or bring back a feeling or mood. France is known for its perfume and other scented beauty products, but you don’t have to splash out to induce your olfactory memory. During my second semester, I forgot to bring a perfume with me. I found a Body Shop and picked up the Japanese Cherry Blossom scent, which is really fresh and subtle. I wore it pretty much everyday and still have nearly a full bottle. Now every time I spray it, I’m brought back to Paris for only €15. Also, I can easily find this scent when I head off to college, ensuring that my memories of Paris live on. 

However, if you travel outside of Paris you can usually find wonderful smelling products for much less. When I visited Provence, known for its lavender, I purchased several handmade, local soaps—bit of France every time I wash my hands. 

3. Talk about it: Share your stories with your friends and family, start a blog, find places online where you can talk about your experience. If you are hesitant to talk about your time abroad for fear of sounding like you are bragging, try framing your stories in a way people can relate to. It can be as simple as discussing the differences between the food and style of your hometown and host country. Or if one of your friends is interested in studying abroad talk to them about your program and how to apply.

It could be worth seeing if your program has opportunities for alumni to share their experience. My study abroad program, API, has the Global Leadership Academy, which allows students to be advocates for studying abroad on their campus and in their community. I was recently accepted to the Global Leadership Academy and am excited to share all the opportunities for studying abroad and how worthwhile it is.