CEA CAPA Education Abroad in Aix-en-Provence, France

This program changed my life. Everything from the academics at the University to the excursions that we had on the weekends. I had such an authentic awesome semester in Aix. The scenery couldn't have been more amazing. Our apartment was everything that a college student could need. The women in the office were always helpful. I really enjoyed hanging out there, borrowing books, asking questions, and getting advice. The city is such a fun atmosphere as well because there are so many young people in the area. It is so different from Paris and so uniquely French. I wish that I could do this all over again and if I could I would have done a year and set of a semester. In order to become 100% immersed in the program it is really importan I wish that I could do this all over again and if I could I would have done a year and set of a semester.

I went to Aix 7 years ago for a year long study abroad. It was the best experience of my life. I loved the support there. The weekend and day trips were so much fun, and there were also plenty of classes, wine tasting, chocolate tasting etc to choose to do as well. The school program was great and I learned more French with in a month in Aix then I did with 5 years of French language in the U.S. If you're thinking about going to France choose Aix!

I went to Aix in the Spring of 2015 and loved it so much! The staff was very helpful and the school I went to was a great place to learn while away from my home university. The housing was incredible! I was in an apartment with another person from CEA. One of the best parts about this program was the comradery formed between the other CEA Aix students and myself. I've definitely found friends for life! The location could not be more perfect. I was in Aix in January and the lowest it got was 32 degrees at night, never snowed, and hardly rained. The sun was shining and it was warm almost the whole time, something very different from the winters and springs in the Northeast.

I think it would be hard to go to Aix and not like it, but Vivienne, Nancy, and the CEA program helped me love every day of my time in France. I'm sure that they've had so many students come through their program over the years, but they did an incredible job of establishing a personal connection with every student, and their amazing kindness and support went a long way towards really helping me feel at home in Aix. Not only were they super helpful with ideas, details, and logistics for great adventures, but they were totally committed to doing their best to help during tougher times. I had my wallet stolen, and without their support I would have had a really tough time getting everything figured out. Instead, Vivienne spent much of her Sunday working to help me out, and I was quickly back on my feet. I would use kind and committed to sum Vivienne and Nancy up in two words, and they become just as much of a major part of my fondness for France as croissants and rosé.

I did not think my study abroad experience would be better then the day dreams I had before I left, until I was abroad with CEA. Aix-en-Provence was a amazing and magical place, but what really made me fall in love was the staff at CEA. They were the best people to have by my side while learning a new culture. From the flower markets to the parks Aix is by far my favorite place in the world. I would never have thought there would have been people as caring and wonderful as Viv and Nancy. They are truly incredible people, and I am lucky to have had them by my side. Aix has everything at your finger tips from small boutiques to fantastic hikes. I would never trade my experience in Aix or with CEA for anything in the world.

Spending 5 summer weeks in Aix changed my perspective on life and world travel. The beautiful, ancient buildings of this quaint, but modern, small city were a joy to take in and experience. The open air fruit and vegetable markets were great for shopping, not to mention vibrant and fun to explore. The ancient cathedrals and many museums and art and music venues all within walking distance from my student apartment. The excursions on the weekends with the eccentric, "George", exploring the beautiful sights of Provence, I will never forget. And swimming in the neon blue Mediterranean Sea for the first time was a religious experience! I highly recommend Aix if you want to experience and learn more about French culture, cuisine, art, nature, people, cafes and ancient architecture. Don't forget to bring your brightest smile ~ Bon Voyage!!

Aix en Provence felt like home. It is a true French experience, and it's the experience of a lifetime. The city is perfect for students, with easy access to travel, so much to do, and so much to see. I wouldn't trade one single moment of my Aix-perience. The town is safe & welcoming to American students. And I was immersed in French culture (& food!) I encourage anyone who is looking for an authentic French experience, away from the big city to pursue this program. You will not regret it. And you will learn more about yourself than you ever thought possible. Aix is absolutely amazing.

I absolutely loved my time in Aix. I can't express how much I appreciated the smallness of the town and program. Studying abroad in Aix in the Fall allowed me to have a great small group of 20 or so people to get together with and always have a buddy to travel with! It's so easy to navigate and travel from. I had the time of my life traveling around Europe and Aix really felt like I was coming back home after a weekend trip. Going out at night is easy because of the cheap wine and the city is so walk-able. I recommend here over Paris for a good cultural immersion and wonderful sunny weather! I miss the fresh produce from the farmers markets every morning, the fresh lavender shops, and the always helpful advisers! GO TO AIX!!