[Editor's Note: Back home in Kentucky, former CSP intern Ashley Dickens reflects on her time spent abroad and her changing perceptions of c-stores. To comment on this series or read past installments, click here.]
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. -- It's good to be home, good to see that my hometown hasn't changed much in the four months that I was abroad. But, I have discovered that though Bowling Green, [image-nocss] Ky., remains the same, my perceptions have changed. Before living in Europe, life in America was how it should be. Now, I'm eager to make suggestions, having learned that worldwide, stereotypes are based on exaggeration, but they can also ring true.
For example, Europeans often say that America is the land of the large and new. Driving through my hometown, still jet-lagged from the previous day's 12-hour travel, I realized it's true, from the roads to the homes to the retailer sites. Particularly, convenience stores are spacious compared to the stores in Strasbourg, France. The gas station/c-stores in Strasbourg were just large enough to hold the necessary goods for their traveling customers. The aisles were narrow, perfect for one person to pass through. I had forgotten (or rather, I never realized) that the c-stores here at home have comparatively limitless space and products available.
As the days continued, my excitement to be home and my curiosity to discover all the changes and differences between America and Europe turned into reverse culture shock. I was surprised, and even a little ashamed, to find myself longing for European ways. I terribly miss the fresh bread available just about anywhere in France, including c-stores. I missed the easy accessibility of stores and the common sense of the European town: Gas stations are located were there is a need for gasoline. Otherwise, you have c-stores without gasoline pumps that offer the product needed inside the town where most people choose to walk.
I also miss the assortment of c-store formats. I found the drive-thru gas stations quaint in Italy, and now I realize that these small stations would be ideally located along interstates and highways, providing a quick way for travelers to refuel without having to drive into a town. The tabacs probably wouldn't have a market here in the States, but in Europe it was nice to know what to expect when you saw the tabac sign swaying in the breeze; these stores provide an easy location for magazines and newspapers, as well as phone cards, tobacco products and other items relevant to the location of the store.
I also miss the prevalence of fresh produce. I found it delightful to walk into the Turkish markets, gas stations, mini markets and underground c-stores and be able to choose from a selection of fresh fruits and vegetables.
However, though I found much I missed from Europe, I've also learned the value of some aspects of American culture. I do not miss the European work schedule. Monday holidays and stores closing at 7 p.m. and on Sundays drove me crazy in Strasbourg. I also welcome the one-stop shopping that c-stores in America provide. It is nice to know that if I need to buy oil and gasoline for my car, along with a snack or beverage, I can stop once at a c-store and tackle both those birds.
In all, my experience in Europe has taught me a great deal about not only the European culture, but also my own culture. And though I miss a lot about life abroad, there is also much in America that I am thankful to have. It's good to be home. Now, if my local c-stores could just sneak in some fresh bread and produce
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