Lyon, France: Intensive French, Undergrad Studies in English

This program was really incredible for improving my language skills! Many people spoke English, so it was easy to struggle in my second language along with the people I was speaking with. There was very little pressure and often times people would help me or give me to space to express myself. The classes were also very helpful with us starting class by sharing what slang we learned! I chose Lyon for the academics and even though that was my priority I fell in love with the city. Lyon is a large city but has a smaller city feel. There was so much to explore but it didn't feel too overwhelming. As Lyon was very influential city for the French resistance during WWII, there is a lot of history embedded into the city. There were so many opportunities to meet people in and outside of the university and program. I was able to engage with French language and culture as well as engage with the immigrant communities! The onsite staff were also incredible and helped me through many situations!

While there is no place like home, there's a piece I left with me in Lyon, France, because of the wonderful experience I had. I was really unsure on what 5 weeks could bring, but it brought friendships, adventures, and a great love for the city. The courses I took immersed me in the city greatly, being able to learn more of the language, architecture, and being able to explore all beautiful parts of it.

Studying abroad in Lyon, France during July 2025 was one of the most rewarding experiences of my academic journey. From the moment I arrived, I felt immersed in a city that perfectly balances history, culture, and modern life. Lyon is incredibly walkable, beautiful, and full of character, which made it easy to feel at home while still constantly discovering something new. One of the biggest strengths of the program was the small class sizes. This allowed for more personalized attention from professors and created a supportive learning environment where I felt comfortable participating and asking questions. Academically, the program challenged me while still being engaging and enjoyable. Cultural immersion was a major highlight. Living in Lyon meant experiencing French culture firsthand—whether that was shopping at local markets, enjoying long café conversations, or navigating daily life entirely in French. Being surrounded by the language helped me improve my French at a much higher level than I ever could in a traditional classroom setting back home. By the end of the program, I felt more confident speaking, listening, and understanding the language in real-world situations. Travel was another unforgettable part of the experience. Lyon’s central location made it easy to explore other parts of France and nearby countries, adding even more depth to the summer. Overall, this study abroad experience helped me grow academically, culturally, and personally, and I would highly recommend Lyon to any student looking for an enriching and immersive program.