CEA CAPA Education Abroad in Paris, France

Studying abroad with CEA CAPA in Paris last summer was truly a one of a kind experience. CEA CAPA did everything they could to make sure that studying abroad was nothing like being a tourist in the City of Lights. I was able to fully immerse into the French culture and community through all of the little things like commuting on the metro, having a traditional French breakfast with my host family in the mornings, and becoming a regular at my favorite fruit stand. It was through these moments that I learned so much more than just what I did in the classroom. In the classroom I learned how to speak French and about French culture, and then even just on my way to lunch after class I was able to see it in action. I got to see all of the tourist things like monuments and museums which were so amazing, but I also got to see a side of Paris that many people don't get to see. When I think of my time in Paris, what I miss the most is something as simple as walking the streets of Paris. That is what made this learning experience unforgettable.

One of the best experiences of my life. I learned a lot on this trip including academics and was able to learn how to be more independent while also having support from CEA when needed. Tons of activities to do in Paris and the program included a lot of activities in conjunction with classes so it wasn't all classes. The apartment I was in was small but I thought it was pretty good. The staff is superb. I loved them so much. They seemed like they actually liked their jobs. That's the first time I've seen something like that before.

My experience was especially unique because it was my first time abroad, I was going to a new place that was both very politically and socially busy, I had to navigate allergies abroad, scholarships, as well as cancelled flights. The CEA CAPA staff helped by answering any and all questions I had. They gave great resources to turn to if they couldn't directly help me. They taught us how to navigate a country that had elections and many protests going on. With the Olympics taking place in Paris, I was able to see much of the French pride that I came to love.

My experience interning and studying abroad with CEA CAPA in Paris was truly amazing. I had the opportunity to meet incredible people from diverse backgrounds, immerse myself in a new culture, and practice speaking another language on a daily basis. As an international student in the United States, I didn't experience major culture shock or anything too unfamiliar, which made the adjustment process smoother for me. The program itself was well-structured, and I enjoyed my classes. The professors were engaging and the classes were fun! Overall, it was a rewarding and enriching time!

CEA offered great stuff both in and out of the classrooms. There were super awesome and really experienced professors that I learned a lot from. They also hosted a ton of events and outings with the students that helped to take advantage of being in Paris and make a lot of friends in the program. They even planned a weekend trip where we got to go to Normandy. We stayed in a nice hotel and they provided our meals. We saw a lot of cool museums and the beautiful beaches of Normandy. I also loved the cultural exchange they held during the semester where were able to meet and interact with other local Parisian students!

My favorite things about studying abroad with CEA CAPA were the included activities and events that we had before and during the program, and the general atmosphere of support that was present during the program. I was not expecting there to be so much included with my program before I went. The weekend excursion was one of my favorite parts of the entire trip, and was of outstanding quality. The guides, transportation, and lodging were all great. In addition, the tours, food tastings, movie night, and cultural exchange were amazing. There was something to do every week and I attended everything I could because I knew it would always be lots of fun. Also, from the beginning of the program it was always clear if we ever had an issue who we needed to reach out to and I always felt very safe while I was abroad.

I could talk about how amazing Paris was, how much I loved my classes, and all the fun places I visited, but I am here to talk about why CEA CAPA specifically stood out. First of all, the have a physical building in le marais where office staff are there to help you, find you tutors, and facilitate package deliveries. They maintain a 24/7 emergency hotline, which set me at ease. The program includes visits around Paris and a weekend trip to Normandy - my favorite excursion was going to a ballet!

I cannot express enough how fantastic this experience was! Living with two other roomates from different parts of America in a cozy European apartment in the 5th arrondissement of Paris was a dream! And right next to Ernest Hemmingway's old apartment! Experiencing the daily life, in's and out's of French language and culture on top of the renowned food, historic sights, metro/subway system, unforgettable markets and events was like no other experience and I am ecstatic at the thought of going back ASAP!