Living the Parisian Dream: My Study Abroad Experience with CIEE

By: Uma Divekar

Studying abroad in Paris through the CIEE Business + Culture program has been nothing short of a transformative adventure—easily one of the most exciting chapters of my college experience so far. Living in this iconic city has been more than just a chance to immerse myself in a new culture; it’s been an incredible opportunity to bring international business concepts to life in real-world settings.

Through the program, I’ve found a balance between the familiar and the foreign. My classes at a local American center provide a supportive “home base,” while my enrollment at a Parisian university has given me a truly global perspective. This combination has made my academic experience abroad both enriching and dynamic.

But living in Paris isn’t just about hitting the books. It’s also about diving headfirst into one of the world’s most vibrant cities. From world-class events to everyday Parisian delights, my time here has been a combo of unforgettable experiences.

One of the highlights? The incredible sporting events I’ve had the chance to attend. My first week here, I kicked things off by watching track and field events at the Paralympic Games. A little later, I bought tickets to the Paris Rolex Masters Tennis Tournament, where I witnessed stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Ben Shelton in action. Most recently, I cheered on PSG during their match against Atletico Madrid (they may not have won, but they’ll always have my support!). The best part? These events were super affordable, with tickets costing just 30-40 euros thanks to student discounts.

Beyond the big events, Paris offers something special every single day. Whether I’m wandering through the city’s arrondissements or studying at a café, there’s always something new to discover. One of my favorite spots is the 12th arrondissement, known for its fantastic shopping and dining scene. It’s also home to my go-to boulangerie, Boulangerie Maison Ménier.

Living in Paris has been a whirlwind of excitement, culture, and learning. From the classroom to the cafés, every moment has been an opportunity to soak up the city’s magic—and I can’t recommend it enough. 

EXPLORE PARIS