Meet Sinem Oezbal
Our student and campus reporter, Susanna Gobbo, caught up with Sinem, second-year student at Forward College doing the Bachelor’s in Politics & International Relations, to hear about student life in Paris, differences to her first year, and future plans.
What is your name?
Sinem
How old are you?
I am 20 years old.
What is your nationality (or nationalities, if you have more than one)?
I was born and raised in Norway, but both of my parents are Turkish. The majority of my family lives in Turkey, so I’m always there during summer.
Outside of Forward College, what do you love to do in your free time?
A lot of things bring me joy, but I’m especially drawn to creative activities—whether it’s cooking, baking, or painting. In Paris, I love exploring different sports at Cité, from volleyball and basketball to football and Krav Maga. I also enjoy joining run clubs and discovering community events around the city. Recently, I attended a big Iftar/Ftour event for Ramadan—the evening meal that breaks the fast for Muslims. It was such a great experience to meet so many different and young people. I also attended a PSG Champions League game, which was an incredible way to experience a whole new side of Paris and immerse myself in its football culture. But beyond just the activities themselves, what makes these experiences so special is how they connect me to the city and the people within it. Culture is shaped by its people, and in a city as layered as Paris, there isn’t just one way to experience it—there are countless perspectives, lifestyles, and stories intertwined. For me, the best way to explore these different layers is by engaging with both the people and the city itself. Every interaction, every new experience opens up a different way of seeing Paris. So don’t be afraid to meet people you never expected to or try something outside your comfort zone—you might just find the version of the culture that resonates with you.
Beyond my own experiences, I also help other students make the most of their time in Paris. As a board member of ANSA (Association of Norwegian Students Abroad), I organise events and meetups for students abroad to make it easier for them to connect—not just with each other, but with the city itself. I know how important it is to feel at home in a new place, and I want to help others embrace a new culture while making it their own, discovering Paris in a way that feels right for them.
How does Paris compare to last year?
Last year was an amazing but really challenging experience—socially, academically, and emotionally. Moving straight from high school to a new country, studying in English for the first time, and meeting people from all over the world was intense, but also incredibly important for my growth. Lisbon was beautiful—the sunsets, the ocean, and the vibrant people made it such a special place. It was also more affordable, which made student life easier. Paris, on the other hand, is completely different, so it’s hard to compare. It’s a more expensive city, and the vibe is just not the same, but I love it here. Now that spring and summer are coming, I feel like I’ll enjoy it even more!
Do you have any cool plans for after Forward College?
That’s the million-dollar question. I haven’t figured it out completely yet, but I want to gain more work experience before pursuing a master’s degree. Where I end up will depend on what opportunities arise and what I find most interesting. Initially, I’d like to study in Norway. It might sound privileged, but after spending so much time in big cities, I feel like it’s time to slow down a bit. That said, I tend to be quite spontaneous with my decisions—so who knows.
What advice would you give to future applicants?
Have confidence and believe in yourself, always. As simple as that.
