Living and Learning Abroad: My Semester in Paris

Last year, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Paris through the CEA CAPA program with the University of Miami. It was one of those experiences that you hear people describe as “life-changing,” but you never fully understand what that means until you live it yourself. For me, those months in Paris were more than just a semester away from home; they were a period of growth, exploration, and self-discovery that shaped how I see the world and myself.

When I first arrived, I didn’t know exactly what to expect. My program wasn’t tied to a specific major, so my classes were centered around French culture and language, which gave me the freedom to experience Paris beyond academics. Every day felt like an opportunity to learn something new; not just in the classroom, but through the rhythm of the city itself. Whether it was ordering a coffee in French, wandering through a museum on a weekday afternoon, or getting lost on a side street in Le Marais, I found that the most meaningful lessons came from the everyday moments.

What stood out most about my time abroad was the people. I met students fellow students from University of Miami who I never knew before; they were people I probably never would have crossed paths with if not for this experience. We started as strangers navigating a new city together and ended as close friends who shared countless meals, trips, and late-night conversations about life and where we were headed. Those friendships became the core of my time in Paris. They reminded me that while studying abroad is about seeing new places, it’s also about connecting with people who share the same sense of curiosity and adventure.

Another part of studying abroad that truly changed me was the ability to travel. Being based in Paris made it easy to explore other parts of Europe, and I tried to take advantage of that as much as I could. From weekend trips to nearby cities to longer excursions, each place offered something unique; a new language, a different culture, a fresh perspective. But the trip that stood out the most was my visit to Egypt.

Ever since I was a kid, I had dreamed of seeing the Pyramids of Giza. There’s something timeless and almost unreal about them; a structure so ancient yet still standing strong. Finally being there in person was surreal. The air was dry and heavy with history, and the size of the pyramids was more powerful than I ever imagined. But what made that trip even more unforgettable was an experience I never could have planned; seeing Francis Mercier, one of my favorite DJs, perform a live set in front of the Pyramids.

That night was one of the best nights of my life. Being able to see the music I loved performed in front of such an unreal monument was something I will never forget for the rest of my life. 

When I look back at my semester abroad, it’s easy to focus on the highlights; the Eiffel Tower at sunset, the croissants every morning, or the nights spent laughing with friends in cafés. But what made it truly special was how it changed my outlook. Living in another country forced me to be more adaptable, more open-minded, and more confident in unfamiliar situations. It taught me that growth happens when you’re willing to step into the unknown; when you stop planning every detail and just let life unfold.

Studying abroad in Paris gave me memories that I’ll carry forever, from the simple to the extraordinary. It was not just about what I learned in class or the places I visited, it was about learning how to live differently, to embrace new cultures, and to connect with people from every corner of the world. Whether it was exploring hidden streets in Paris or dancing under the stars in Egypt, that chapter of my life reminded me that the world is bigger, brighter, and more connected than I ever imagined.