This 1-credit embedded course is open to students enrolled in FR 397 and to students who have taken or are enrolled in any 200-level French course in fall 2026. The education abroad component in Paris over Thanksgiving break turns the city into an interactive classroom, where students will connect the themes explored in the course through site visits, guided neighborhood walks, hands-on learning activities, and language immersion. From the Musée de l’Histoire de l’Immigration to diasporic markets and cultural hubs, students will examine how space, memory, and representation influence national identity. These immersive experiences will deepen classroom discussions, foster greater cultural awareness, and enhance critical thinking.
Planned visits in Paris:
- Le Musée national de l’histoire de l’immigration
- Belleville (Afro-Caribbean)
- Le Marais, the Carnavalet Museum, and Jewish Quarter
- L’Institut du Monde Arabe and La Grande Mosquée de Paris
- La Goutte d’Or (African cultures and markets)
- Little Jaffna (South-Asian culture)
Program Dates: November 21–29, 2026
Pre-requisites/Eligibility: This program is open to students taking FR 397 or any 200-level French class in the fall 2026 semester, as well as students who have previously taken a 200-level French class.
This program is open to students taking FR 397 or any 200-level French class in the fall 2026 semester, as well as students who have previously taken a 200-level French class.
Students who commit to the program will be manually enrolled in the 1-credit embedded travel course, FR 397.
Students should review their academic term plans to determine any financial implications, especially if you plan to take over the maximum 19 credits in a semester. Students can anticipate actual charges using the University’s updated Tuition Calculator.
- Program Fee: TBD
- In-Country Costs: Please consult with your faculty leader(s) about the amount of money to bring to cover the costs of meals and any additional spending money.
NOTE: The Program Fee will be billed to participants’ Penn State Office of the Bursar accounts in late July and payment will be due August 22.
The Program Fee includes: round trip airfare; hotel accommodations (based on double or triple occupancy, breakfast daily); welcome and farewell dinners; transportation to and from the airport in Paris; transportation and fees related to program activities in Paris; emergency and administrative support.
The Program Fee does NOT include: transportation to/from the U.S. airport; most meals; spending money (souvenirs, etc.); course/credit tuition or fees; passport or visa fees.
To officially commit to the program, thoroughly read and submit the Official Financial Commitment Form by June 15, 2026. This form will be posted on this webpage in early March. Students must fill out this form in order to be registered for FR 399.
Interested students are encouraged to contact Professor Hanan Elsayed at hbe5081@psu.edu for additional details or with any questions.
There are several official avenues for embedded program funding within the University. The primary ways are through Liberal Arts Enrichment Funding and Penn State Global, but students can also explore funding opportunities through their academic department or Undergraduate Research and Fellowships Mentoring.
Get career ready!
Embedded programs help students to gain key skills that employers are most looking for in college graduates, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). Below are 1–2 major competencies students can start to develop by participating in this program.
Critical Thinking
Deepen your understanding of key aspects of diversity by examining cultural perspectives, practices, and experiences.
Communication
Strengthen your French language skills by engaging in everyday communication and practicing the language in real‑world situations.
Career and Self-Development
Build self‑confidence by navigating daily life and meeting everyday needs in a new environment.
Want to hear more? Meet with a Liberal Arts career coach in the Career Enrichment Network to discuss your experience and identify even more ways that this program can enhance your personal and professional development!
