High School Language Immersion Programs in France

As my first study abroad traveling opportunity it was such a beautiful experience. Having been able to do it with TOCA was wholesome. They are so accommodating + welcoming with any concerns! Grateful!

My first time abroad was through TOCA, and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. My nerves were easily settled by the kind and understanding team that traveled with us. This trip was filled with fun activities along with amazing learning opportunities. From the organized activities to the individually planned hangouts, this trip is something I will never forget. I am extremely grateful I had the chance to experience this, and I hope future students have just as much fun!

At the start of the program I was skeptical of going abroad. I heard stories from other students who did TOCA on how it was a life-changing experience. At first I thought it was an over exaggeration. But as time went on during my time in France I realized I began to change wholeheartedly as a person. I started to see the world in a much more colorful way and realized that I had reached a state of nirvana where I felt at peace with myself. Wether it was painting, going out with friends, or even being alone. I felt comfortable in my own skin for the first time in my life. I highly recommend to take the leap of faith and take this opportunity.

At first I was very hesitant on going abroad and meeting new people because I was an introvert I was very to myself until. I took this opportunity because deep down I knew I wouldn’t get the same opportunity again and I don’t regret it I am so thankful of this amazing opportunity. It had brought me to be more social and make new friends that will last. It had made me be more open minded and that it’s okay to take risks or take any opportunity that comes your way because you may never get the same opportunity again.

My experience with TOCA was extremely memorable, and will stay with me for the rest of my life. The staff are so welcoming and kind, and do everything in their power to support every kid that attends the program. Their partnership with the Marchutz School in France provided students with an incredible opportunity to learn and study art, teaching skills that will continue to carry on.

The culture in Aix is unlike any other. Very very immersive and presents a lot to learn. I would love to go back and continue the experience. I loved the people there as they were some of the kindest and most open hearted.

This trip has been so eye opening and has been such a core memory. The homestay family that I stayed with was amazing! Additionally, the school was amazing and so kind and helpful! What I was taught here, I can’t learn anywhere else at this age. It’s so astonishing I got to go there for two weeks! It’s been such an amazing time and I definitely recommend. Additionally, they kept my mom informed! Definitely parent and kid friendly alike. Loved the opportunity!

I think TOCA in France and the memories i’ve made are something that’ll stick with me forever. The people I met and the things I got to see were breathtaking, i’m forever thankful and i’m so glad for TOCA.

My time in France was absolutely beautiful, I loved it and I would do it again 100 times, just with a different organization. While I was in France, there was no support for harsh times and host family abuse/toxicity, Many other AFSers who came to france this year have said the same—changing families is insanely difficult because AFS takes the side of the family, leaving a lack of support for the student. On the other hand, I learned so much about myself on this program. I fell in love, I became fluent in French, I have a university program chosen already, this program has really made me fall in love with the world around me, and I will forever be grateful. I just wish AFS was there for me more (Sorry if the wording of this is confusing, i’m still getting used to speaking english) I will forever cherish this time I spent abroad!!!

My experience with MEI was life changing. I cannot recommend them enough. The teachers are some of the best I have encountered throughout high school and university. Every destination and experience enhances the curriculum, creating an education experience like no other.

Making the decision to attend MEI Academy is hands down one of the best decisions I have made. I attended the 2018 Adventure Down Under summer session and I loved it so much I signed up for the 2019 Kingdoms and Empires group for my second semester of grade 12. During these trips I learned a lot about myself and became more independent. The other students I met on these trips are still some of my best friends and I will always cherish the times we spent together. On top of this, the teachers educate you on much more than just academics. They help you reach outside of your comfort zone and support you as you learn more about yourself and the world around you. MEI Academy immensely helped me grow as an individual and prepared me to live away from home for University. I would take this opportunity again in a heartbeat!

During grade 11, I decided to go to Asia for my spring semester with MEI and transitioned to Europe in the fall of grade 12. This ‘reverse’ big year approach set me apart from my peers, yet I found myself enjoying it just as much. I chose to apply for MEI because I was looking for deeper knowledge than what was available at my local public schools. I went into it pretty blindly, not knowing anyone, as most of the students do. My high school experience has been anything but ordinary, as I have attended four different high schools, including MEI Academy. It was during the two MEI programs, where I discovered an incomparable educational experience. The teacher’s high expectations fueled my growth as a student, thinker, and peer. Coming from an online school, I initially lacked certain public speaking skills and certain social abilities. However, the immersive and supportive environment at MEI sparked my personal transformation. I came out of my programs, not only as a more articulate individual but also as someone who can easily speak for myself and confidently form friendships with people who I might not have connected with otherwise. One aspect of the program that particularly resonates with me to this day was the structured routine of our days, which was nothing like my life at home. Waking up each day surrounded by individuals who were equally as eager to embrace the new experiences was a breath of fresh air. From daily morning workouts in constantly changing locations to reflective writing and collaborative projects, I truly would not have found this anywhere else. Unlike a conventional school setting where teacher interaction is limited to the class period, with MEI I had constant engagement with both educators and students, creating meaningful relationships that extended far beyond the classroom. Not only did my relationships extend beyond the classroom, but so did my education. MEI stands out as a transformative educational experience. Something I had never experienced in a traditional classroom, but had the opportunity to learn on my MEI program was the blend of courses with real-world application. The academic skills –from public speaking to essay writing– that were taught during my time with MEI, I continue to actively apply to all of my courses at home. These are valuable skills that will continue to allow me to prosper as I begin post-secondary education. For those who want to broaden their horizons and grow as an individual and as a student, MEI Academy is the perfect place to do that. I wholeheartedly recommend these programs for anyone who is considering it. I would not be the same without this experience.

I departed on MEI's big year in 2013/2014. Ten years later it is still a core memory and an essential aspect of my education. I continue to employ the values, experiences, and educational techniques gained during my experience in both day-to-day life, as well as professionally. I am forever grateful for my experience with MEI International Academy.

In 2019 I went to western Europe with MEI Academy and had the most amazing experience in my life! The teachers on MEI are the most caring, supportive and hands on teachers I’ve ever had. They are very invested in getting to know each individual student to insure the get the most out of their education and experience abroad. I highly recommend traveling with MEI for the most rewarding and fun experience you’ll have.

I would be very likely to recommend it because I enjoyed my experience so much. I learned a lot of French, traveled to new places, tried different foods, and made friends from many places. Meeting new people and traveling were some of the best parts.

Our family sent two of our daughters with MEI Academy. One completed the International Business summer program and we were so impressed that our other daughter completed her entire Grade 12 year with MEI. The experience was outstanding! Their English and communication skills, understanding and interest of world issues, politics, human rights, history and geography all emerged from their lessons They were taught by extraordinary teachers with real passion for their subjects plus a nurturing personal style while the students were on the road. They were inspired and energized with daily exercise and learning in such unique and wonderful locations It was an exciting time for us as parents as well, as the school takes excellent care to publish photos and blogs along with carefully detailing the homework and projects the students were working on. We were able to follow along with every step of the journey. The girls have gone on to complete excellent University degrees and have found meaningful work in their lives I can't express how important this decision was for our family and how life-changing the programs were. I would highly recommend MEI Academy to anyone thinking about a travel abroad program for their students.

An amazing journey and a life-changing adventure. My son recently returned from your Fall Europe trip and he loved it and learned so much; he is so glad that he went and I loved following along with the photos posted by the teachers. The places that he saw and learned about were incredible, and the teachers excellent. I can't say enough great things about the experience from start to finish. Thank you for making these programs happen through excellent organization, extensive knowledge of your destinations, and dedication to guiding young people to grow, reflect and become independent.

In 2018 I joined many other students on the most amazing 'school trip' ever! During the Fall Semester with MEI, I travelled to Southeast Asia and Australia and I am beyond grateful for the knowledge and lifetime friendships I gained on this journey. Every day was a new adventure and the lessons we would learn were that much more engaging because we were surrounded by the history of that days' topic. Now, almost three years later, I am still in touch with many of the friends I made on that trip and we have shared so many memories since. I would recommend this trip to all students as it is a 'once in a lifetime' kind of experience that I would not trade for the world.

I had so much fun on this trip abroad and felt that I fulfilled one of my lifelong dreams which was to go and explore France. This was something I never would’ve expected I’d do in high school but its truly an unforgettable experience.

My study abroad experience in France was truly meaningful and unforgettable. After three years of studying French, I was finally able to use the language in real life, which felt very rewarding. Being in an unfamiliar environment allowed me to experience the world independently for the first time and grow more confident. I met new people from different backgrounds and built lasting connections. Painting in astonishing French landscapes was inspiring, and exploring Aix-en-Provence and Marseille helped me appreciate the culture and history. Sailing in the Mediterranean Sea was a highlight that made the experience even more special. I never even dreamed of this opportunity and would forever be thankful to TOCA.