CEA CAPA Education Abroad in Paris, France

I studied abroad with CEA CAPA in the Summer of 2023 in Paris, France. In my 6 weeks spent abroad, I was very pleased with what CEA CAPA had to offer. In terms of housing, the apartment was about what you would expect to receive at any university, and the kitchen was very small, though that was okay because I was able to spend most of my meals out, really getting the full French cuisine experience. The engineering class that I took was difficult, as is any, but the small class size made it easy to collaborate with others and to really delve into the knowledge. The sports & culture class that I took was fun and engaging, and really offered exploration of parts of the city I never would've ventured to on my own. CEA CAPA offered many opportunities to see parts of the city, starting with the initial boat ride along the River Seine, where I had my first glimpse of the Eiffel Tower, and ending with a ticket to a football match at the Stade du France, where we got to see a very exciting win! These are some things I never would have thought to do, but CEA CAPA made it all possible.

I tremendously enjoyed my experience with CEA CAPA in Paris. The school itself is located in a great location in one of the city's most historic neighborhoods. The academics were more strenuous than I expected after hearing so much about how 'easy' study abroad classes are. I was able to partake in relevant courses that always managed to tie into the culture and heritage of Paris itself, which I appreciated. The staff was also friendly and supportive. Excursions included in the program were also enjoyable - I got to experience a few things such as a football game and broadway show that I otherwise would not have been able to attend.

I had a lot of fun in this program. I met incredible people during this six weeks and made amazing memories that I hope I'll never forget. The academic part was challenging and I learned a lot but it also allowed for time to explore Paris and other places in France and nearby. There was a great balance of adventure while still getting credit for my university. Also, CEA provided all the information you need to feel safe in Paris and learn how to get around. 100% recommend it if you have the opportunity.

The academics at CEA CAPA Paris were not very challenging but were interesting and fulfilling. I enjoyed all of my classes, looked forward to going to school every day, and am grateful for the opportunities to learn outside of the classroom. CEA also helped immensely in pairing me with a wonderful host family. I was able to connect very well with the local culture through my host family, through CEA CAPA activities and excursions and through my own exploration. Overall, it was a great experience.

Studying abroad in Paris was an unreal experience. I studied at an American Study Abroad program (CEA CAPA) and at an international school (CCFS). I learned so much about France and the world through the friends that I made and the voyages I went on. Paris is a city that has so many things to do and there is never a dull moment. There are always new events to go to from Fashion Weeks to art museums and more! Additionally, traveling around is a very important part of study abroad. Paris has three airports and several train stations which makes finding cheap and convenient travel methods very easy.

I have a major in French, so studying abroad in France was the perfect opportunity! Despite Paris' reputation, I didn't go in with any grand expectations. When I got there in summer 2022, I was blown away by the history, architecture, and culture. I was on a faculty-led trip and had a great professor and cohort of French students. CEA supported our safety and organized trips for us. Difficulties came mostly because of the remaining effects of covid. For example, housing was subpar because they were struggling to find openings. Overall though, I had a great time abroad!

CEA went above and beyond to ensure their students were safe, happy, and healthy while abroad. My experience in Paris was a life-changing one and one that CEA made possible. Not only did my experience with CEA teach me valuable life lessons that I am now able to implement into my daily life like being adaptable, open-minded, and resilient, it taught me how to be an independent woman confident and comfortable in any situation. My time abroad was extremely impactful and has encouraged me to pursue other career paths I would have never thought of before my time in Europe. The ability to go abroad is a blessing and will play a major role in my life as I grow into a professional. The lessons life taught me while in Paris are ones I would have never been able to understand before taking that leap of faith, growing me into a more worldly, educated, and grateful individual.

I started learning French at the advice of one of my favorite middle school special education teachers. After a year or so, my mom went on a business trip to Paris, I decided I wanted to eventually go to Paris to sharpen my French. It was so much fun studying at the Institut Catholique and exploring the city. Paris is so easy to navigate and there are so many neat things to see and do! I stayed with a family on Blvd Blanqui but on the last week of my trip, they left me to go on vacation and I never saw them again. I do hope they're doing well. I would like to come back to Paris at some point either next year or the year after and maybe reconnect with them if possible.