At a Glance
Smith in Paris: A Student's Perspective
The Curriculum
This full-year program begins with a three-week orientation including courses in language, culture and contemporary history; cultural activities; and an introduction to living, studying and volunteering in Paris. During the academic year, students enroll in four courses each semester in a range of disciplines, including humanities and arts, social sciences, sciences and math.
The Universities of Paris
Students choose courses from a variety of Parisian universities, including the historic Sorbonne–the Université de Paris IV, the multidisciplinary Université de Paris VII-Denis Diderot, and the Institut d'Études Politiques ("Sciences Po"). Courses are also offered at the Smith Center and through consortium colleges. All courses are taught in French.
Internships and Community Service
Students who intern or volunteer at Parisian institutions or government agencies have the opportunity to enroll in the course "Perspectives sur l'expérience bénévole" to examine the historic and current state of volunteer organizations in France and place their service experiences into context
Homestays
Students experience French life firsthand by living with French families, often making lifelong friendships. All homestays are within Paris or the nearby suburbs. Thanks to one of the best public transportation systems in the world, students travel effortlessly throughout Paris and its environs.
The Smith Center and Faculty Director
Situated in the heart of Montparnasse, the Smith Center is located at the renowned Reid Hall Global Center, a focal point of intellectual and cultural exchange for over a century. The Smith Center offers students a library, computer facilities, classrooms and the offices of the faculty and associate directors. The director in Paris, appointed annually from the Smith College faculty, provides academic advising and cultural guidance. The program associate director, a Parisian resident, offers additional support and practical assistance on living in France.
Eligibility
Women and men from four-year colleges with at least a 3.0 GPA and four recent semesters (or the equivalent) of college French are invited to apply.
Program Dates
Late August to early June
Application Deadline
Smith student applications are due by February 1. Guest students are encouraged to apply by February 1 but will be accepted on a space-available, rolling basis up until March 15.
2013-14 Program Fee
$28,625 per semester includes orientation, tuition, academic advising and course selection assistance, room, board and a lunch stipend, required health insurance, medical emergency coverage, excursions and cultural activities. Students should consult their home institutions regarding financial aid assistance.
