High School Experiential Learning Programs in Paris

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.

When I heard about this academy from a friend, I was excited for the opportunity to send our Son on an experiential learning journey. Little did I know that it was going to be one of the greatest opportunities and gift we could give him. Our son went on Trek 3 Through Europe. The enrolment process was smooth, and Pam was always happy to answer any questions and direct to resources. As for the whole trip, it was a great investment of time and money. This opportunity resulted in our son completing his High School as early as February 2024 and gaining admission into the prestigious UBC Sauder School of Business for the 2024/25 academic year. MEI Academy not only teaches courses, it fosters character building while also providing a glimpse into our world. ‘The world is indeed our classroom.’ After hearing about the experience our daughter is looking forward to go on a journey with MEI as well.

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.

My summer on MEI was everything and more than what I hoped for. The staff and students were incredibly welcoming and the quality of education is unparalleled to anything you can get in a classroom. I know these experiences will forever stick with me and I can only hope that more people will see the value in such educations. I wouldn't have traded my summer with MEI for the world.

Hi my name is Andrea Monaco and I just finished the english in Spain and Portugal program. This is a once in a life time experience I would recommend to everyone. The memories and friends you make are something you wouldn’t get anywhere else. The teachers were amazing with 1 on 1 time whenever needed and the structure of school is unbeatable. I can say I have made life long friends who I am already missing only 1 day later. This is something every kid should be able to experience and if you have the opportunity to do it, PLEASE DO.

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 attended the MEI International Business program and would highly recommend it to any students looking to learn more about business and investing. This is an action packed course with great teachers and lessons that are a great preparation for the future.

Highly recommend this program… My teenage daughter did it this previous summer and had an absolutely amazing experience. Not only was the trip very well organized, but the teachers were excellent and the experience was a once in a lifetime opportunity. She learned so much more being over in the place where history happened than sitting in a classroom. The entire program is well run and provides a great experience for both parents and students.

I really enjoyed this program by MEI Academy because of the beautiful places we visited and the amazing teachers who supported me. I would recommend these trips to anyone because they are extremely inclusive.

I first heard of MEI about 10 years ago when our son was 6 years old. Over the years I have referred friends and family to the program while patiently waiting for our son to join the program. Trip after trip, I saw the positive impact of the program on the participants. Our son has now returned from his trip and has nothing but positive memories to share. He enjoyed his classmates and deeply respects his teachers for their passion to teach. MEI did not disappoint and if you are considering it, do it!

My daughters completed their high school English courses through MEI summer travel study program. It was an excellent experience! The locations chosen, the instruction, the organization was top notch. My daughters felt safe and cared for. The life experience was very valuable. I highly recommend this for your child. My daughters have gone on now to Medical school and Law School. MEI contributed to their personal and academic success. We are grateful to MEI.

The media program is great for students that want to learn more about photography and videography while travelling around the world with a whole bunch of teenagers and amazing teachers to help with your academics. Media students also travel with ESP students which helps them bond with more people and make life long friendships. The teachers are very supportive and will make sure to give you all the help you need when completing projects. I highly recommend taking any form of MEI course, it is a great opportunity and everyone had a super fun time.

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.

This was a life-altering experience, one with a new range of emotions I never knew existed. Not only did we get to see the most beautiful landscape, but had the most helpful and loving teachers that we could call family. With their help, we formed our own family that I will love endlessly. We all managed to not only learn from our teachers, but from the locals in the beautiful cities we encountered. It taught me to never take any moment in life for granted, and opened up a new perspective on how beautiful out world truly is, all from MEI.

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.

This summer has been an amazing experience! I’m so glad I chose to join the MEI family and go on this trip. I joined trek three knowing no one on the trip but ended up meeting some of the best people ever. The application process was smooth and the teachers were easy to communicate with throughout. This program has provided me with experiences I never thought I’d have. I would strongly recommend MEI to any student.

MEI is a life changing experience and I wouldn't trade it for anything. It not only allows you to experience the world, make amazing new bonds, and an engaging education, but it also teaches you about yourself. I've always loved to travel but MEI made me believe I could do it on my own! I'll forever my grateful for everyone involved in the creation of MEI and everyone who was on ESP 2024.