Economics Study Abroad Programs in Lyon, France

Studying abroad with USAC in Lyon was hands down the best experience. The program was laid-back but organized, the USAC team is great, and Lyon is such a fun, easy city to live in. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

In the spring of 2025 I was given the opportunity to study abroad in Lyon, France. Lyon wasn’t just a place I studied—it was a place that rewired me. Coming from Zambia to the USA and then the USA to France, I thought I was prepared for culture shock. I wasn’t. The language humbled me, the pace of life slowed me down, and the people forced me to actually "observe" instead of rush. Lyon taught me how to sit with myself. Long walks by the Rhône, quiet cafés where nobody cared who I was or where I came from or judge, everyone is super friendly and helpful. They also appreciate when I try to speak French and will often help me if my grammar is wrong or I forget a phrase. The freedom was uncomfortable at first, then addictive. I learned more outside the classroom than inside it. I learned confidence by being misunderstood and still speaking. I learned independence by figuring things out alone, including traveling to different countries alone. I learned how different the world feels when you’re the outsider—and how powerful it is when you stop trying to fit in and just exist. France challenged my views on relationships, ambition, and identity. It made me question what success actually looks like when nobody around you shares your background. Every time I am asked if I would recommend this program to someone else, a million times, YES!