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<p>When California native, Micah-Rose Hoffman, arrived in in Bordeaux for study abroad, she made a surprising discovery: what should have felt foreign instead felt like coming home. Through language learning, cultural immersion, and daily life in France, this student from UC Los Angeles created a second identity for herself—proving that cultural belonging isn't just inherited, it can be built from scratch. Her story reveals how study abroad can help us find versions of ourselves we never knew existed.</p>

<p>From its wine regions to castles, nearby beaches and trendy nightlife, Bordeaux is a true French-lovers paradise. Tracie Kreiss (UC Santa Cruz) shares her tips on how to make the most of this beautiful city's activities, culture and learning opportunities for visiting students.</p>