france

<p>When two UC students, Justine Pendergraft (UC Los Angeles) and Maria Newman (UC Berkeley) arrived for their study abroad programs—one in Berlin, one in Paris—they faced every traveler's worst nightmares within their first 24 hours. These are the unexpected and valuable lessons study abroad teaches you. They each discovered that those dreaded "what if" scenarios from predeparture orientation aren't just warnings—they were opportunities to prove just how resourceful you can be.</p>

<p>When California native, Micah-Rose Hoffman, arrived in in Bordeaux for study abroad, she made a surprising discovery: what should have felt foreign instead felt like coming home. Through language learning, cultural immersion, and daily life in France, this student from UC Los Angeles created a second identity for herself—proving that cultural belonging isn't just inherited, it can be built from scratch. Her story reveals how study abroad can help us find versions of ourselves we never knew existed.</p>

<p>With humor and honesty, a self-described anxious UC Irvine student shares how studying abroad in Paris and London transformed her perspective on mental health and personal growth. From celebrating her 20th birthday under the Eiffel Tower to discovering the healing power of European café culture, Harper Parsley's story proves that sometimes the best therapy is a passport and a leap of faith.</p>

<p>Ever wonder what it's like to spend Thanksgiving in another country, far away from your family and friends at home? Read (UC Santa Barbara) Elias Veran's story of spending Thanksgiving weekend on an olive farm in Provence, hosted by UC alum, Thomas Seale.</p>

<p>Learn how one Iranian-American student from UC Berkeley, Tara Shahandeh, discovered strength and resilience in the face of challenges while studying abroad in France. Learn what helped her finally claim her role as a multicultural, multi-lingual anthropologist.</p>

<p>From its wine regions to castles, nearby beaches and trendy nightlife, Bordeaux is a true French-lovers paradise. Tracie Kreiss (UC Santa Cruz) shares her tips on how to make the most of this beautiful city's activities, culture and learning opportunities for visiting students.</p>

<p>As an undergrad, Sierra Alef-Defoe (UC Berkeley) spent three semesters and two summers away from California. She hopes her story encourages you to study abroad not just once, but many times.</p>

<p>Got writer’s block? Follow the great artists of history—Hemingway, Rowling, even Picasso—to their favorite cafés and find your inspiration abroad.</p>

<p>Sierra Alef-Defo (UC Berkeley) just got back from Lyon, France! Check out her experiences and advice on housing, the best eateries and more in her 3-minute travel guide.</p>

<p>We searched the world for surf-worthy beaches within walking distance or a short public transportation ride from universities where you can study abroad with UCEAP. Some of these universities have surf clubs too, so you have access to a built-in set of buddies with native knowledge of the best beaches. Surf’s up!</p>