To ease into the program, students have access to the course website where reading lists are posted. Course preparation is spread out over three weeks: our first two-week preparation session begins in early May, focusing on novel studies; the second one-week session starts in late June, focusing on completing research and small assignments. These online sessions are designed to connect students with their teachers and classmates, to help complete short tasks, and to alleviate the workload during the summer. Students are required to complete all foundation work before leaving to ensure they are ready to hit the ground running while overseas.

Our study abroad departure hub is Toronto’s Pearson International Airport. Five hours prior to departure, a short meeting is held at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel, Terminal 3, to distribute course packs, maps, and to clarify travel procedures. All students are responsible for making their own travel arrangements to the Sheraton Gateway Hotel. Students making alternate arrangements must contact MEI before March 31.

Our first stop in France is Paris, one of the most beautiful and storied cities in the world. While exploring the romantic cobblestoned streets of the Marais, or the manicured lawns of Versailles, students immerse themselves in various forms of French media (newspapers, magazines, television, film, and performing arts) to further develop their understanding of the complexities of the French language. Students also gain an appreciation for art as they participate in lectures and debates at the Musée d’Orsay and the Musée du Louvre. Here, the grand Napoleon’s Tomb and the iconic Arc de Triomphe also serve as backdrops for lessons and master classes. French literature functions as a primary source to examine the grammatical and structural aspects of the French Language. In the evenings, students enjoy dinners in the open-air cafés and bistros of the Latin Quarter and St. Germain as they discuss French readings, practice their language skills, and reflect on topics of the day.

Snow-capped mountains, turquoise waters, and even a medieval turreted castle form the backdrop for classes in the picturesque south of France. Here, students put their language skills to the test as they converse with locals and participate in presentations and book chats to further build their skills and confidence in French.

As we continue our journey discovering the beautiful nuances of French language and culture, we enjoy an unforgettable stay high up in the Swiss Alps. Morning coffee with cool mountain air, rich blue skies, and stunning white-capped mountains make this a sublime stop on our journey through Europe. The peace and quiet of Swiss village life allows for tailored, one-on-one sessions with teachers to further help students master their understanding of composition and language proficiency—all while hiking along mountain trails and Alpine peaks.

The final location of our journey through France and Switzerland is in the dynamic city of Nice. With its buzzing cafés, grand esplanades, and famous stone beaches, this seaside town serves as our hub to explore the south of France. Students have time to take in the chic modern art museums and visit the nearby city of Monte Carlo, while completing their final academic assignments and preparing for their final exam. As the sun sets on the last evening, students celebrate the end of their journey along the pebbled shore of the French Riviera.

Departure from Nice Airport (Day 25)