The Eiffel Tower from below lit up at night.

Summer Program Information

Here you will learn all you need to know about the Paris American Academy Summer program!

Program Contacts
Dates
Orientation
The Campus
Academics
Accommodation
Flight
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Weather
Traveling While There

Program Contact

Sara Morato

Associate Director, Education Abroad

smoratoq@kent.edu | 330-672-7980

Dates

Summer Session I (June 2024)

Departure from the US: June 1, 2024
Arrival to Paris: June 2, 2024
Classes begin: June 3, 2024
Classes end: June 28, 2024
Departure from Paris: June 29, 2024

*All program dates are tentative and subject to change. Students should not book any airfare until official arrival dates and information has been shared from the Office of Global Education.

Orientation

Before you leave and upon your arrival in Paris, you'll participate in an orientation designed to help you make the most out of your study-abroad experience. In orientation, your goals will be to...

Orient yourself to the city of Paris.
Develop the awareness you need to observe and learn from different cultures.
Discover the businesses and organizations of Paris
Access the tools you will need to succeed academically, personally, and safely within the policies and responsibilities of the program.

The Campus

Centered in the famous Paris Latin Quarter, less than a mile from Notre-Dame cathedral and a few blocks from the Luxembourg Gardens. PAA draws upon Paris’ vibrant cultural and artistic heritage, stretching its campus across the city’s museums, exhibits and cafes. Classes are mainly held in the Pavilion du Val de Grace, a 17th century building. Recently renovated, this six-level building also serves as the Academy of Art Gallery. Other studio spaces and administration offices are located in an adjacent building.

Academics

FASHION DESIGN & MERCHANDISING PROGRAM:

Student will have the opportunity to participate in either summer session I (June) or session II (July). Each session will offer the opportunity for students to focus on one of three specializations: Couture Techniques, Design Process, or Fashion Merchandising & Communication. The courses will be tailored to the student’s specializations along with shared coursework in core areas.

*Academic credit is awarded by Kent State University so if you are a Kent State student, there is no need to transfer credits. If you are not a Kent State student, the credits can be easily transferred.

INTERIOR DESIGN PROGRAM:

Participate in the month of July in a four week intensive program in which students will have the opportunity to gain a strong foundation in design technique, participate in an intensive design studio and culminate with a final presentation of their summer work. The course will have a practical and hands-on approach with visits to Parisian architectural sites, furniture and fabric stores.

*Academic credit is awarded by Paris American Academy. Be sure to check with your academic advisors to discuss which courses best fit your program requirements and how the classes will transfer back to Kent State University.

CREATIVE WRITING PROGRAM:

Participate in the month of July in a four-week intensive program in which students will have the opportunity to be taught by four renowned professional writers. Topics will include: fiction, poetry, travel writing, memoir, personal essay, journal writing, plays and screenplays, and presentations and performance.

FINE ARTS PROGRAM:

Participate in the month of July in a four-week intensive program in which students will have the opportunity to be part of an intensive drawing and painting studio.

Accommodation

Students stay in shared apartments nearby the PAA building. This immersive experience allows students to live like a Parisian. Apartments are fully furnished and include wifi connection. Students will need to bring their own towels. Apartments are typically shared with 2-3 other students on the program and it is possible to submit a roommate request.

Flight

This program offers the option of joining a group flight, which allows students to travel together to and from Paris. Students who wish to participate in the group flight, must submit their application by the deadline.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

It is possible to use financial aid on this program. Students are also encouraged to search and apply for study-abroad scholarships. Education Abroad provides information about using federal financial aid and searching for scholarships.

Weather

Weather in Paris in the summer is beautiful, average summer temperatures can range from 60 degrees up to 80 degrees. There will be lots of sunshine with an occasional rainy day.

Traveling While in Paris

It is possible for students to travel independently while in Paris. Classes meet Monday through Thursday, so each weekend allows three days to visit a dream destination. PAA staff can offer advice on where to go and how to get there.