Did YOU study abroad?! If so, where and what inspired you to go?
Patrick: I did, but not as a typical study abroad student while in college. My path was a bit different, as I had already graduated from college, had a job teaching art in a French/American school and at the time, had not imagined I would eventually move permanently to France! As it happens, I met a French woman from Grenoble, who was hired by the school to teach in the kindergarten section.
We worked closely together, became friends, then more and finally decided to move to Grenoble… on a trial basis. Being a new resident, it was necessary for me to improve my French, so I enrolled in Stendhal University’s French language program at the Centre Universitaire d’ Etudes Françaises. I studied at the same university, with some of the same professors as our CEA students do today!
Why is language learning and cultural immersion important to you?
Patrick: One of the ways to help make peace in this world is through understanding what others are about; where they come from, what their daily concerns are, and ultimately discovering how much alike we all really are. Communication through education is a starting point, and understanding another language and culture is essential if we are to grow closer to others.
Experiencing another culture and speaking a language that is not our native tongue, can be a humbling experience; but also one that helps us become aware that perhaps there are multiple possibilities to coexist, and that our own world view is not necessarily the best or only one.
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
Patrick: I have worked for most of my adult years teaching one thing or another, in one place or another. Before coming to CEA I taught English to future French engineers. The focus was different, but working with young adults, either French or American, has always been a true source of inspiration and pleasure for me.
When I first started working for CEA, we were a much smaller company, with enormous potential for growth.
As CEA has grown, I have had the privilege to be able to continue to work in a truly rewarding environment. I have learned much about business ideals and functions, as well as the importance of being open to change, while working with a variety of individuals from many different disciplines, with whom I would typically not have had the opportunity to know. Through my time with CEA I have learned the true value of patience and objectivity.
What changes would you make to the study abroad industry?
Patrick: I would like to see more study abroad opportunities for community college or less privileged students. Studying abroad is an enriching and important experience and it seems a shame that a very large portion of potential talent is being left behind.
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
Patrick: Over the years, I have had many enriching stories from former students! One of my favorites is from a former student, who went from being very unsure of himself when he first came to France as an intensive French language student, to now finishing his master’s degree in French! In Paris! In Psychoanalysis! He has remained in touch over the years and often remarks that studying abroad with CEA, in Grenoble changed his life-a perfect compliment!