This trip was my first time leaving the country, and on that note by myself. I got to experience a variety of different types of foods, architecture, languages, global perspectives, and much more. From spending time in tourist filled areas to other more quiet areas with no crowds, I got to see what France was truly like. I was shocked. I expected it to be just like New York City, but it was not. France was different because almost every store or restaurant was special; by that I meant that it was not the same five chain restaurants or retail stores like how it is here in the United States of America. Some of my favorite days were the ones spent in the small historic towns. St. Malo for example was beautiful and had such a sublime nature to it. The buildings were stunning and not to mention it was located on the water, which was this striking combination of many different blues. Although I did not like every food given to me, my eyes were opened for the sense that I had never even heard of some of these dishes before, and it was a common dish in France. We got many opportunities to enjoy the different sides of Paris. Whether it was on the boat tour, the walking tour, or when we got to explore on our own, I enjoyed every aspect of it. History has never really been my favorite subject but, it just so happens that in my history course I am enrolled in, we were learning about the treaty of Versailles, and being able to stand in the exact same place as some of the most significant places that contributed to the formation of the county I live in today really forced me to try and imagine what it must have been like at its peak, or when it was the “most modern” place. On top of the history the palace of Versailles was very beautiful and had some of the most breathtaking artwork and structures I have ever seen. All and all I really enjoyed the trip and hopefully I can go back to France and further immerse myself in the different cultures and perspectives.
– Alexa, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023

Europe is an incredibly unique grouping of different modern and Western societies, where a variety of languages and values are as densely packed as the particles in a bar of lead. France is no different, having an extensive history of pushing the envelope of political and social change. Even during my short visit, numerous protests and strikes erupted concerning the political turmoil ensuing throughout the country. From waste workers to metro operators, the stunning impact of these strikes presented an amazing learning opportunity to understand the importance of everyone’s place in society.

Aside from the strife, there was a great calm. Many of the smaller cities our group visited, such as Tours, Caen, and Chartres were simply serene. Most notable to me was the simple lack of car noise. The peace brought by an environment devoid of engine roar, tire squeal, and mass-air displacement was almost imperceptible to me at the time, only revealed in reflection. This is elevated by the stunning architecture and expert civil engineering making dense urban environments enjoyable to navigate and explore.

Most prominent to me on my excursion was Le Mont-Saint-Michel, easily the most stunning work of architecture I have ever seen. A feat of both engineering and artistry, this Abbey seared itself into my mind as I traversed the monastery and surrounding island community.
– Alexander, SPC France High School Study Abroad Program, March 2023