Each month we meet one member of Knowing Nantes and find more about what makes them tick. This month meet Marie Anselm.

How would you like to describe yourself?
International, multicultural. I've had the chance to travel a lot and to live in many different countries. After 3 years spent in Scotland and 5 years in London, I can say that I am deeply French with a strong British touch.

What is your greatest achievement?
My studies. I graduated with a DESS in Translation at 21. And all the professional and personal experiences I have had in Spain, Italy, the UK and California.

What makes you get out of bed in the morning?
The excitement and the beauty of life. Believing that each day is a special one and that anything is possible... And also my job-hunting all over Nantes at the moment!

What do you think is the most important lesson that life has taught you to date?
Things often happen (or don't happen) for a reason. Whatever happens in this crazy world, we must keep faith in love and humanity.

What or who is the most important thing in your life?
WHO: My mum, she is a teacher and lives in London. I have been missing her terribly since I got to Nantes.
WHAT: My CD collection. I couldn't live without music.

What has been your most memorable day?
The day I met Madonna at the Lycée français in London. Both her daughter and her son attend the school.

What do you like most about living in France?
The food. I love French supermarkets! They have that "je ne sais quoi" that makes me want to buy everything! The atmosphere of the cafés, fresh baguette and croissants for breakfast. And distances: it doesn't take me 2 hours anymore to get from one place to another anymore. Nantes is so quiet after my hectic London years!

What is your favorite place in Nantes?
The FNAC. I love books and this place is paradise to me! They also have a good selection of foreign books.

What made you join the Knowing Nantes network?
When I decided to come back to France, I knew I would miss the UK. I thought it would be good to meet British people living in Nantes.