Center for University Programs Abroad (CUPA)

CUPA (Center for Undergraduate Programs) is an excellent program for motivated students who enjoy trully exploring a foreign country. CUPA enables you to take classes at any of the thirteen or so universities in Paris (Paris I, II, III, IV, VIII, XIII, etc.), you can also take classes at the Science Pro, the Institut Catholique and for very motivated students at the Ecole normale supérieure. CUPA works with each student individually to find out his or her interests and then points to you where you can find those courses. If you are less adventurous, CUPA also offers its own courses which are taught by French professors and which are very small and typically excellent. One course that has remained popular for many years is the History of Art and Architecture in Paris taught by Professor Boicos which enables you to spend one day of the week in the class room and the other day exploring different museums and architectural sites in Paris. CUPA is a small program with I think a maximum of 40 students. It is catered to students who are academically ambitious and who wish to emmerge with French culture. The directors (one French, one American) are extremely friendly and eagerly encourage their students to go to cultural events by reimbursing opera, theater, and other artistic events and by organizing classes for students specific interests (i.e. nude model drawing courses, music lessons, etc.).

I have made a great friend in my host mom. We get along really well. I get to be an adult and have my own life but still have companionship and someone who is looking out for me.

none