Where the journey began · Sanai memory An art journey spanning France and the U.S.

Yubai Shi — From France to the U.S.: Extending art and ideas

She left for Poitiers in 2012 for French High School Study Abroad, discovered the humanities and arts, then continued to Boston University to study art history. Her PhD now examines North African modern art and cultural change within colonial and postcolonial contexts.

2012 · Journey with Sanai
Now · Art history PhD in Boston

Shoot date

Summer 2012 · Filmed at the Sanai study center

What it means

Captured her first time discussing art history in French

Poitiers · Boston Art history · Colonial studies Cross-cultural observer
Sanai student · Departure moment Yubai Shi paging through art materials at the Sanai classroom
Studies UP · 2012

Filmed in summer 2012 at the Sanai study center.

Yubai Shi on her French campus
Where she is now

Pursuing an art history PhD at Boston University, focusing on North African modern art and colonial questions.

1) From Poitiers to Boston: Where the academic path began

In 2012 I started high school in Poitiers and completed the French Baccalaureate in 2014 with about 13/20. I did not yet have a fixed academic direction, but the flexible curriculum opened many windows into art and ideas.

After graduation I went to Boston University to major in History of Art, continuing to explore how culture and visual art intersect in a broader academic setting.

I am now pursuing a PhD in art history in the United States, researching North African modern art and how colonial and postcolonial contexts shaped it. My time in France became a crucial starting point for understanding these themes.

Yubai Shi jotting down classroom ideas at her high school in Poitiers
Yubai Shi reviewing art history archives in France

2) Why France mattered

High school in France was a pivotal chapter. Living across cultures sharpened how I observe social structures and helped me see the complex links between history and the present.

These experiences sparked my interest in colonial and postcolonial art. I did not have a clear research topic then, but the French academic environment taught me critical thinking and prepared me for doctoral study.

Even though most of my research now happens in the United States, I return to France often for archives and conferences. The inspiration and training from France continue to guide me.

3) Advice for younger students

1. Build strong French skills to open the world. Language is the key to French society. Once fluent, coursework is easier and conversations with teachers and classmates become deeper.

2. Use your study abroad time to explore Europe’s diversity. Beyond classes, travel and join cultural events to feel different cities and communities—these experiences broaden your view.

3. Expand your circle and meet people from many backgrounds. France is a diverse society. Proactively connecting with peers from different cultures helps you build genuine cross-cultural understanding and clarify your own direction.

Yubai Shi exchanging academic viewpoints with classmates from different backgrounds

4) Closing thoughts

Although I am now advancing my studies in the United States, those formative years in France remain the starting point of my academic path. They helped me find my voice between cultures and strengthened my commitment to art history research.

I hope every student preparing for French High School Study Abroad uses this experience to observe the world, practice independent thinking, and turn insights into momentum for the future.

Stay curious

Boldly explore Europe and the world, turning travel inspiration into resources for research and creative work.

Connect people and cultures

Keep communicating with friends from different backgrounds to find your own positioning and direction through cross-cultural dialogue.

Want to know more about French High School Study Abroad?

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

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