Ammar Ridzuan, a student from Malaysia, chose to remain in lockdown in Paris to continue his studies in better conditions.
After completing a technical degree in Aix-en-Provence, Ammar Ridzuan enrolled in the Grande École Arts et Métiers program. After spending his first year in Cluny, he is now studying at the Paris campus and has chosen to spend lockdown in university accommodation.
Why did you choose to stay in Paris?
It was easier to stay and study in France to avoid jet lag. I wasn't sure I would be able to concentrate on distance learning from Malaysia, as there would inevitably be distractions!
I feel more motivated in my university residence: I can stay in touch more easily with otherArts et Métiers studentsArts et Métiers studies and classes.
Furthermore, France is among the countries with the highest number of Covid-19 cases. I am potentially a carrier of this virus, and I don't want to risk infecting people by traveling.
What is the situation in Malaysia?
To date, there are fewer than 5,000 cases of COVID-19 in Malaysia. The country is in total lockdown with strict police controls.
My family and loved ones have not been affected by the virus. And fortunately, we can communicate easily, so we are always in touch!
How do you organize your days?
I study my online classes in the evening because it's quieter.
I decided to self-isolate with my neighbor, and I'm learning Moroccan cooking with him!
I'm also trying to devote time to my passion, photography, even though I can't go out to take pictures.
If I need help with everyday life, Campus France is always there to make sure everything goes smoothly.
What contact do you have with otherArts et Métiers students or teachersArts et Métiers
For my class, there is a chat group where all the information from the Teaching Representative is shared.
For the supervised tutorials (ED), my professor has also created a WhatsApp chat group, which I find really useful for asking questions about the course or catching up with my classmates.
