Hawk's Eye View: Madeline Poulis '26
Courtesy: Photo Courtesy/ Madeline Poulis
Madeline Poulis ’26 is turning her passion for the French language and culture into an international opportunity. In fall 2026 the Cameron School of Business graduate is moving to Amiens, France, to serve as a teaching assistant through the Teaching Assistant Program in France (TAPIF), where she will help French students learn English while immersing herself in everyday French life. With a bachelor’s degree in business administration, concentrating in international business, and a minor in French, Poulis is excited to continue strengthening her language skills, building cross-cultural connections and gaining valuable teaching experience.
In this latest Hawk’s Eye View, Poulis reflects on her study abroad experiences, what inspired her to return to France, how UNCW has prepared her for working across cultures and the advice she has for students hoping to study or work abroad.
How did your International Business major and French minor prepare you for working in a cross-cultural environment?
My International Business major taught me how to work with people from different backgrounds and understand different ways of thinking. My French minor helped me improve my language skills and learn more about French culture. Both areas have made me even more excited to live and work in France.
You studied abroad in Toulouse while living with a French host family. How did that experience influence your decision to return to France?
Living with a French host family gave me a connection to France that I never could have experienced as a tourist. Being welcomed into their daily life helped me feel like a local and showed me what it means to be truly immersed in another culture. That experience is a big reason why I wanted to return through TAPIF and become part of a community again.
You also worked as a French tutor at UNCW. How did teaching others prepare you for TAPIF?
Working as a French tutor taught me how to be patient, explain things in different ways and adjust to each student's learning style. It showed me that everyone learns differently, and I enjoyed helping students build their confidence in a language I am so passionate about. I know those skills will help me support students as a TAPIF teaching assistant.
You are moving to Amiens, France as a TAPIF Teaching Assistant. What drew you to this opportunity?
After studying abroad in Toulouse, I knew I wanted to find a way to return to France. TAPIF stood out to me because it lets me experience everyday life in France while helping French students learn English. I'm excited to be part of a school community, build connections with people and continue improving my French along the way.
What is one UNCW memory you will always remember?
UNCW has given me so much, including lifelong friendships, amazing opportunities, valuable connections and two incredible study abroad experiences. My favorite memories would have to be joining my sorority and being part of my business fraternity. Those organizations introduced me to some of my closest friends and helped me grow both personally and professionally.
What advice would you give students interested in studying or working abroad?
Don't let yourself believe your dreams are too far out of reach. If you're willing to put in the work, do your research and stay persistent, you can accomplish more than you think. Don't let one setback convince you to stop trying.
How do you hope to stay connected to UNCW while living overseas?
I hope to stay connected with my professors, many of whom I've already connected with on LinkedIn and I'll continue keeping in touch with my French professor, who I've had for five semesters. I also want to share my experience with friends and students who are interested in studying or working abroad. I'd love to encourage others to take advantage of the opportunities UNCW offers because they've had such a big impact on me.
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