Where the journey began · Sanai memory A decade in France, mind and world growing together

Yaya Ren — 10 years in France, growing with the world

Yaya left home alone for French High School Study Abroad in 2010, completed the SSI science track, then pivoted to art, finishing a master’s in strategic design at ECV before returning home to focus on mind-body-spirit healing. A decade abroad helped her explore freedom, culture, and inner growth—and find a confident way to speak with the world.

2010 · Journey with Sanai
Now · Mind-body-spirit practitioner

Shoot date

Summer 2010 · Filmed at the Sanai study center

What it means

Captured the first step of her 10-year French journey

Paris · Returning to build a career ECV · Visual Communication & Strategic Design Mind-body-spirit healing practitioner
Sanai student · Departure moment Yaya at the Sanai study center during her pre-departure briefing
Studies UP · 2010

Filmed in summer 2010 at the Sanai study center.

Yaya Ren on a street in France
Where she is now

After 10 years in France, she returned home to blend artistic training with mind-body-spirit healing.

1) Study overview

Hi, I’m Yaya. In 2010 I chose French High School Study Abroad and joined the SSI science track, completing it with a Mention Assez Bien. It was my first time leaving home, learning to express myself in French while adapting to a brand-new classroom rhythm and study style.

After graduation, I spent a year at Prép’Art for an art foundation, then enrolled at ECV (École de Communication Visuelle) for a five-year bachelor’s-master’s program. My undergraduate studies focused on Communication Visuelle to build a strong design base; for my master’s in Design Stratégique, I explored how design connects with business and social topics.

Moving from science thinking to visual creation and then strategic integration kept expanding my perspective in France—and laid the groundwork for pivoting into holistic healing after returning home.

Yaya discussing visual design during a workshop at ECV
Yaya traveling across Europe and experiencing diverse cultures

2) What France taught me

A decade in France offered irreplaceable growth. I traveled across Europe, spent time with local friends, and observed their daily rhythms, family structures, and life beliefs. The French seem witty and relaxed, yet they dive deep when discussing life topics—their views on freedom and critical thinking quietly reshaped how I see the world.

These experiences taught me that “freedom” is not limitless; it balances respect and responsibility. Even after returning home, I keep an open yet steady posture, bringing the independence and gentleness I gained in France into my work and life.

3) Blending cultures and finding direction

Studying and living in France showed me how Chinese and French cultures complement one another. The introspection and wisdom I grew up with in China and the rationality and openness celebrated in France are not an either-or choice. When I embraced differences, I found more ease and strength inside.

This cross-cultural practice gives me clearer direction when facing life decisions: I can stay flexible in an Eastern way while using Western rationality and expression. Back home, I hope to pass on that experience and help more people regain trust in themselves and the world.

Yaya’s growth keywords

  • Freedom: Learn to respect differences in an open culture and take responsibility for every choice.
  • Exploration: Treat travel as a classroom and experience different families and social systems across Europe.
  • Healing: Extend design-driven insight into mind-body-spirit work and help others embrace their authentic selves.

4) Advice for younger students

Life in France is worth experiencing—and worth preparing for. Whether you stay in France or return home, it becomes a treasured part of your story. Move forward with courage and curiosity, communicate proactively, ask for help, and savor every moment in front of you.

If you love art or mind-body-spirit topics, France is fertile ground. May you find your own light abroad. Bonne chance!

Yaya’s reminders for you

  • Before traveling, understand your own pace and goals—decide the lifestyle you want.
  • Blend into local communities, and don’t fear mistakes; they are the best fuel for growth.
  • Stay open and respectful—let every cultural encounter spark reflection and inspiration.

Want to know more about French High School Study Abroad?

The Sanai team has focused on French programs for 16 years, working closely with local schools, companies, and art institutions. Contact an advisor for the latest application strategies, visa planning, and arrival tips tailored to French High School Study Abroad.

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