Miguel Cruz Lopez is originally from Mexico City, Mexico. He arrived in France on August 28, 2024, to enroll in the Bachelor of Technology program at the Arts et Métiers campus Arts et Métiers Bordeaux-Talence. In this interview, he shares his experience as an international student, between cultural discovery and his first steps in a three-year program to become a leader in innovation.
Why did you choose France, and more specifically the Arts et Métiers campus Arts et Métiers Bordeaux-Talence, to study for your Bachelor's degree in Technology?
I was fortunate enough to attend the French-Mexican High School in Mexico thanks to an academic excellence scholarship. This high school, which follows the French education system curriculum, allowed me to discover a teaching approach that was very different from that of the Mexican system. I chose the STI2D technology track, whose practical approach, focused on hands-on learning and project methodology, particularly appealed to me.
Wanting to continue in this vein, I naturally chose to continue my studies in France, in order to remain in an educational environment that suited me perfectly. The bachelor's degree offered by the Arts et Métiers campus Arts et Métiers Bordeaux-Talence is directly in line with the STI2D program: a dynamic, practical education that is perfectly consistent with my background and professional goals.
How are you adjusting to life in France, both in your daily life and in your studies?
My adaptation to life in France was gradual. The cultural differences and distance from my home country were a real challenge, especially at first. This change required effort, particularly in terms of getting used to a new environment and a new way of life.
However, I was made to feel welcome and gradually found my bearings. I adapted to the pace of life and local customs, discovered new experiences, and also settled into my studies. Despite a few moments of homesickness, I am integrating well and now feel comfortable in my daily life and academic career.
What differences have you noticed between the education system in Mexico and the one you are discovering here at Arts et Métiers
In my opinion, one of the main differences lies in the teaching style. At Arts et Métiers, as in France more broadly, teaching is much more dynamic, practical, and focused on learning. The emphasis is on understanding, putting knowledge into practice, and developing skills, which makes the courses more engaging and useful in the long term.
In Mexico, although I am attached to my country, I have often found that the education system relies more on memorization than on understanding. In France, education seems more comprehensive to me: it is not limited to technical knowledge in the field, but also includes subjects such as economics, history, languages, and current affairs, which contributes to a more well-rounded education.
Can you tell us about a memorable experience you've had since arriving on campus?
One of the most memorable experiences for me was adapting to community life with my classmates. Social interactions, humor, camaraderie—all of these things are quite different between France and Mexico. At first, I had a little trouble understanding certain customs, such as slang or other everyday expressions.
It also took me a while to get used to hearing only French, even outside of class. In Mexico, even at a French high school, I would hear Spanish once I left school. Here, everything is in French, which requires more effort.
But despite these differences, I have adapted well. My integration into the school has gone smoothly, and I am really enjoying the Bachelor's degree courses. I particularly appreciate the quality of the teaching, the dynamic nature of the practical work, and the teaching methods used at Arts et Métiers.
What message would you like to convey to students who are hesitant about studying abroad?
If I had to give them a message, I would say: "Be bold, step outside your comfort zone, it's the only way to grow, to break out of your cocoon. It will be difficult, but with perseverance, discipline, and the desire to grow, anything is possible. Have confidence in yourself, have confidence in your knowledge, and everything will be fine. The world is yours, decide how you want to live it, and also know that life is too short not to go out and discover the world. Open your mind and travel."
One day, a teacher said to me, "You already know your country. Go out and discover the world. And if one day you want to come back, you will always find your home, your family, and your old life waiting for you." That advice made a lasting impression on me, and today I share it with those who are still hesitating to take the plunge.
What are your plans for the future?
In the future, I would like to become an engineer by attending a school specializing in mechatronics or energy engineering. At the same time, I want to continue exploring Europe and the world. Later on, I would like to return to Mexico to pursue a second degree in gastronomy, a passion I have had for a long time.
However, I remain open to opportunities and aware that the future may hold surprises. For now, my goal is to make the most of these three years of my bachelor's degree in Bordeaux and let time guide me.
