Duke University Office of Study Abroad

Dear Global Education Office:

Duke in Paris is the place to be for the summer! Although I left Paris just 2 or 3 weeks ago, I'm already missing this amazing city where you cannot be bored, no matter how hard you try. I was really thrilled with the opportunity to live with a host family, which allowed me to taste homemade cuisine, find out all about my family's lifestyle and summer plans, as well as exercise my French on a regular basis.

Attending this program made me more confident and independent, as I gained victories against many of the challenges faced. For instance, the Parisian metro was no longer a mystery at the end of our trip. Needless to say, I also gained the battle against the numerous French vendors who would instantly switch to English at the tiniest hint that I was not French.

I greatly enjoyed the excursions we had all over France, particularly the Provence region, where I'm looking forward to coming back and perhaps living and working there. The picture is from Baux-de-Provence, a small village from this picturesque region, famous for its rich historical heritage.

Duke in Paris also confirmed my desire to keep taking French courses all throughout my Duke experience, as well as take part in activities involving the French culture. If you ever find yourself in Paris or (even better) Duke in Paris, don't foget to go to as many boulangeries and markets as possible and try every type of bread, pastry, wine and cheese!

-Veronica Ciocanel