Can you introduce yourself in a few words? Where are you from?
I am Shukria, a 26-year-old from Afghanistan.
Which French university or school and course of study have you been admitted to? Which academic year (2022, 2023 or 2024) will you start in?
I have been admitted to a two-year Master’s program in
International Economic Law at Capitole University in Toulouse, France. I began my studies in September 2024.
What was your journey like before you arrived in France? In which country did you first seek asylum? Did you stay there long?
I completed my education in a neighboring country and obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Translation Studies from an Iranian university. I was always interested in law, but Iranian regulations do not allow migrants to change their field of study for a second degree. This made it impossible for me to pursue my interest in legal studies until the opportunity to study in France arose.
Why did you want to or have to leave your country?
Due to war and instability in my country, my family had to migrate to a neighboring country during my childhood.
How did UNHCR-France and ESL help you to integrate?
Through the UNHCR program and with ESL’s support, I was able to come to France. From the beginning, the faculty and staff helped me find my place in France and integrate into the new academic community.
How were you received at your institution?
During the first two weeks, the administrative staff checked on my progress daily, and the training manager arranged meetings to provide valuable guidance. Their welcoming approach made my transition much smoother.
How were you received in your Master’s class?
Getting to know other students and the international atmosphere of the classroom made it easier for me to fit in. Initially, I experienced shyness and some isolation, but gradually I adapted and became comfortable participating in discussions and expressing my opinions. The process was easier than I had anticipated (it just required time and willingness to engage!).
Are there aspects of French culture or the French university system that particularly surprised you or to which you had to adapt?
The French educational system’s emphasis on critical thinking and active student participation in class was quite new to me.
The friendly relationship between students and professors is also quite different from what I had previously experienced. You can share your opinions, request guidance outside of class by emailing professors who are openly willing to help students, and even address professors by their first names without it being considered disrespectful.
The class schedules, number of courses, and hours of instruction are much more intensive than what I experienced in my previous studies. This was surprising at first, but now I understand the necessity of dedicating this much time to learning.
Do you think that your previous life experiences influence the way you approach your university and professional career?
My educational experiences are somewhat challenging due to my change in academic direction. I need to broaden my background knowledge, gather more information, and carefully observe how other students progress and what strategies help them, so I can also quickly acquire sufficient and appropriate knowledge.
Nevertheless, my previous experiences have definitely given me a different perspective on legal issues. Seeing legal challenges in practice has motivated me to find practical solutions in my studies.
After your training, what job would you like to do?
One of the most helpful courses in the LL.M program is the Professional Career module, which familiarizes students with post-graduation opportunities and provides a vision of future career paths. In the first year of the Master’s program, you gain sufficient information to choose your career path. Based on my resume and circumstances, I have considered several career paths and am directing my studies, internships, and information gathering accordingly. Working with international organizations is my first choice. Inspired by my own background, helping refugees and people in need is a priority for me.
How do you see the future: do you plan to stay in France, return to your first country of asylum, or go elsewhere to pursue your plans?
For my future, I plan to first complete several internships in legal sectors here in France. Then I would like to gain experience in other countries to broaden my perspective. Ultimately, I aim to apply my acquired knowledge and skills where they can have the greatest impact.impact.
