Location:

Paris, France

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

This program provides a study of the representation of Paris in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and of its role as the capital of modern culture. We will discuss major texts from Jefferson to Baldwin, listen to key musicians (e.g. Sidney Bechet), view major films (e.g. An American in Paris), and learn to read the city and report on its politics from the vantage point of young 21st century Americans. Classes and student housing will be located near Luxembourg Gardens. Assignments include required readings and independent walks throughout the city. All readings are in English.

COURSES
Comparative Literature 180 - Selected Topics in Comparative Literature (4 units)
Study of a selected topic or topics appropriate to student and faculty interests and areas of specialization of the instructor. May be repeated once for credit when the topic differs.
AND
Comparative Literature 198 - Directed Group Study (4 units)

Students will be required to "travel" through Paris. We will have daily assignments that ask students to explore the history and culture of Americans in Paris through its streets and architecture. In addition, we will ask students to visit historical sites, museums, and exhibits (both longstanding and new) that inspired past and current Americans living in Paris. Some of these sites, such as Versailles, lie outside of Paris. Our classes are scheduled so that students will also take advantage of trips to other places outside of Paris, such as the south of France, where Americans living in Paris have traditionally gone to escape the winter or the confines of the city.

Comments from past Americans in Paris participants:

"As a graduating student of UC Davis, I'm very happy to end my undergraduate career with such an inspirational class and professor. This program has definitely opened my eyes to the world around me."

"I see America completely differently now, and this experience has made me want to travel and do more with my life."

"I have a deeper understanding of Parisian culture than I thought I would receive from this course. I was able to participate in new activities that we don't have in the U.S. I made connections with other students as well as the Parisians."

Upper-division units (open to freshmen through graduates). Taught in English. UC Davis courses taught by University of California, Davis faculty.

Please contact UC Davis Summer Abroad for the most up-to-date information concerning program costs. Programs start around $4,000.

Setting Description:

Students will stay in double rooms in Paris (across from the Luxembourg Gardens). Rooms are furnished with either a desk or a secretary, lamps, chairs, storage space, etc. Bed linens are provided, but towels are not. Phone calls are put through directly to the rooms and if the student is absent, callers can leave a message. Each room has a sink with hot and cold running water. Showers and toilets are located on the floor. Each room also has a refrigerator where students may store food. In addition, the accommodations include a tv room, laundry room, internet access area, library, shared kitchen and terrace. A continental breakfast is included with your accommodations. Students will have access to a shared kitchen and can also purchase meals in the neighborhood.