Meet Rachel Olejniczak – Student Life Coordinator
Rachel is the newest member of the Student Life team!
What do you do at Parsons Paris?
Student Life Coordinator. Come to me about your general student life experience at Parsons Paris and in Paris. And for students who have immigration requirements, I will be your point of contact.
How long have you worked at Parsons Paris?
I’m new ! I started in October.
Your nationality.
American.
How long you’ve lived in Paris?
Almost 10 years.
What is your favorite thing about this city?
Paris is an incredible blend of preserved history and contemporary living. It leads to these stunning moments of feeling part of the long line of events and people that came before.
Name one of your favorite places to eat at close to campus.
Since I’m new I would love to hear from you where I should go ! I have always liked Higuma on rue Sainte-Anne for an excellent ramen though.
What is your favorite arrondissement and why?
I love being around Buttes-aux-Cailles in the 13th (and very close to the 5th) and in the bottom half of the 20th. All different people live in these areas and so there are a lot of interesting inter-generational and cross-cultural activities and associations.
Name is your favorite cultural spot(s) in Paris.
When I need a reminder of why I’m in Paris (because sometimes that bureaucracy can weigh you down a little 🙃) I do go watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle or head to the top of the Arc de Triomphe to see things that only exist here. Beyond those wee bit obvious choices I love the cafĂ© at the MusĂ©e de la Vie Romantique and the lively picnics along the Seine and the Canal Saint-Martin in the summer.
Who is your favorite musician/band? Favorite album?
Oh yikes, podcasts are more my flavor. I do love everything The Beatles. French-language wise I really like Angèle and Redcar (previously known as Christine and the Queens).
What is your favorite activity to do in Paris?
Finding good coffee places to chat with friends, journal and write letters…
Do you have a secret tip/advice/spot to share with new visitors to the city?
Sometimes the best way to decide what to do is not rely on someone else’s list online / social media of the top # things you must do in Paris. Go explore and make your own list !