My Study Abroad Experience with CIEE in Paris

By: Annie Newmark

Studying abroad is often described as a life-changing experience, and my semester with CIEE in Paris was no exception. From navigating the historic streets of the City of Light to immersing myself in French fashion and international business, every moment was an opportunity for learning and personal growth. However, adapting to life in Paris also presented unique challenges that pushed me outside my comfort zone and broadened my understanding of cultural differences between France and the U.S.

Paris is an extraordinary city that blends history, culture, and modern innovation. Strolling down the Champs-Élysées, watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night, or having a croissant at a café, Paris is magical. But beyond the tourist highlights, I found myself drawn to the hidden corners of the city, the charming streets of Le Marais, the artsy atmosphere of Montmartre, and the vibrant markets that became part of my daily routine.

Unlike being a visitor, studying abroad allowed me to truly experience Parisian life. I quickly learned that the city operates at its own pace—one where people savor their meals, take long walks along the Seine and emphasize quality over efficiency. This way of life was vastly different from the fast-paced culture I was used to in the U.S.

One of the highlights of my academic experience was my Fashion and Business in France course. Paris is the global epicenter of fashion, and this class provided an in-depth look into the industry’s history, branding strategies, and evolving business models. We explored the rise of haute couture, the impact of fast fashion, and the global dominance of French luxury brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hermès.

What made this class unique was its hands-on learning approach. We visited showrooms, fashion exhibitions, and even got to hear from professionals working in the industry. Walking down the streets of Avenue Montaigne, home to some of the most prestigious fashion houses, felt like stepping into a textbook example of luxury retail. Understanding how these brands adapt their marketing strategies for different audiences helped me see the intersection of business and creativity in a new light.

Another course that shaped my perspective was International Marketing. Studying consumer behavior in a European context revealed how different cultures respond to branding, advertising, and messaging. Seeing these theories applied in Paris—where global companies must adapt to French laws, language, and local preferences, gave me insights that I would not have fully grasped in a U.S. classroom.

While studying abroad was an incredible experience, it also came with its fair share of adjustments. Parisian life is structured differently than life in the U.S., and I had to unlearn some habits and embrace new cultural norms.

In the United States, convenience is the most important thing. We’re used to 24/7 stores, fast service, and efficiency-driven businesses. In Paris, I had to adjust to the rhythm of life, where meals are meant to be enjoyed, and many businesses close early or take breaks in the middle of the day. At first, it was frustrating when a restaurant took longer than expected to bring the check or when stores shut down on Sundays, but over time, I learned to appreciate the intentionality behind these customs.

Unlike large American supermarkets, Paris operates on a specialized shopping system. Grocery trips meant stopping at the boulangerie (bakery) for fresh bread, the marché (market) for produce, and the supermarché for other essentials. It was an adjustment at first, but eventually, these small interactions with shopkeepers became one of my favorite aspects of Parisian life.

Coming from a place where driving is the norm, learning to navigate the Metro system was another challenge. Paris is built for walking and public transit, meaning cars are used far less than in American cities. Though confusing at first, I quickly became comfortable hopping between metro lines, which gave me a sense of independence in the city.

Before arriving in Paris, I did not know any French, and even after spending a semester here, I still haven’t picked up much. This made daily interactions like ordering food, asking for directions, or handling inconveniences like metro strikes, more challenging than expected. Unlike in major U.S. cities where English is commonly spoken, many Parisians prefer to communicate in French. At first, this was intimidating, but over time, I learned to navigate situations with gestures, translation apps, and a lot of trial and error. While there were awkward moments, I realized that as long as I made an effort to be polite, most people were understanding and willing to help.

One of the biggest perks of studying abroad in Europe is the ability to travel easily. With lots of airlines, trains, and buses connecting major cities, weekend trips became a regular part of my experience.

I visited Barcelona, Florence, Amsterdam, and even Morocco. Each destination enriched my understanding of the world, but some of my most cherished experiences happened within France itself. Whether wandering through the gardens of Versailles, exploring the Loire Valley châteaux, or simply sitting along the Seine, France offered endless moments of beauty.

Looking back, my semester in Paris was more than just an academic experience, it was a personal transformation. I became more independent, adaptable, and open-minded. I learned to navigate new challenges with confidence, embrace discomfort, and develop a greater appreciation for cultural differences.

Most importantly, I realized that life is not about rushing to the next thing, it’s about enjoying the process, the people, and the small moments in between.

For anyone considering studying abroad, my advice is simple: Go for it. Paris will challenge you, inspire you, and change the way you see the world. And trust me, it’s worth every second.

EXPLORE PARIS