"Living and studying in a foreign country proved invaluable as it taught me independence, introduced me to local customs and culture, and immersed me in the city’s atmosphere."
Despite being a relatively experienced traveler, the Columbia Summer in Paris: English Track program was truly exceptional. Although I had visited Paris multiple times before, this was the trip that completely changed my perspective on the city. What had once been one of my least favorite European destinations became one of my most beloved cities, thanks to this program. Living and studying in a foreign country proved invaluable as it taught me independence, introduced me to local customs and culture, and immersed me in the city’s atmosphere. Along the way, I met and connected with so many fascinating people who made my memories of Paris and of France truly unforgettable.
Academically, Paris was the ideal setting to explore French social and historical conversations. For instance, Art History came alive when I could study masterpieces just a short walk away. Visiting the Louvre and the Musee d’Orsay shed new light on the works we discussed in class, making them far more vivid and memorable than if I had taken the course elsewhere. Likewise, studying France and the African diaspora was especially impactful when I could witness their historical legacy firsthand, rather than simply reading about it in a textbook.
In short, this program offered the perfect balance of intellectually stimulating coursework and unforgettable cultural experiences, blending academic insight with meaningful personal connections.
