Marie Sahakian
UChicago Center In Paris
Director for Student Life, Center in Paris
Marie has worked at the Center in Paris for a decade in various roles and currently serves as the leader of its Student Life department, in charge of housing, health and safety, and overall wellbeing for students in the study abroad program in Paris.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your work?
I like being part of a team: we are all working together towards the best student experience, and what I enjoy most about my work is meeting students’ needs and helping resolve any mishap.
Q: What is your favorite lunch spot when you’re at work?
My favorite lunch spot when I’m at work is the Center’s garden with my colleagues. We bring food from home or buy something in the neighborhood and gather to share a friendly lunch break together!
Q: What is your commute like?
The Center is located in the south of Paris, and I live in the north, so I have a packed 40-minute subway commute twice a day. Nothing very exciting about it!
Q: What surprises visitors to the Paris Center the most?
That everyone is versatile here—each of us has a specific role at the Center but everyone pitches in when needed!