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Making the most of 2025

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As we welcome the new year 2025, it is a great time to consider new opportunities on campus and off. From city life to cultural programs, clubs and wellness, the University is here to help you find your passions and interests, and take full advantage of everything AUP and Paris at large have to offer. Open your browsers, get out your calendars and start planning.

 

Life in Paris: Cultural Events Across the city

As a member of the AUP community, you are in the perfect place to enjoy Paris’s vibrant cultural life to the fullest. Sign up for a monthly cinema card and catch a flick on one of the city’s 500 movie screens. Discover performance art and music at the opera, the Philharmonie or La Villette; once spring arrives, discover outdoor art and literature fairs; and come summer you can get out and about to enjoy Nuit blanche or the Fête de la musique.

Check out the website of the city of Paris for more on what to do around the city, in particular exhibitions, including “Au fil de l’or” at the Musée du Quai Branly, curated by AUP professor Magali An Berthon.

Upcoming On-campus Academic Events

Look into deepening your knowledge of your field of study by attending, or even helping to organize an academic event on campus. This spring, AUP’s George and Irina Schaeffer Center for the Study of Genocide, Human Rights and Conflict Prevention will host the conferences “Disparate Narrative Matters” and “Armenian Genocide”; and the University will host the first International Data Science and AI Leadership Summit.

Check the Events page for updates on events pertaining to your disciplines of interest. Next week, don’t miss the Poetry Night “Honoring the Women of Afghanistan.”

 

The Cultural Program

If you are looking for inspiration and guidance to really make the most of your time living in the heart of Europe, turn to the Cultural Program, which offers excursions in Paris and France, as well as international trips. Study trips organized by AUP faculty take you to spectacular destinations to complement what you’ve learned in class offering a once in a life-time opportunity to discover sought after destinations with the most knowledgeable faculty guides and privileged access to on-site locations.
Student Clubs

AUP has a wealth of student- and faculty-led interest-based, cause-based and athletic organizations to pick from. Consider getting involved in one of AUP’s student publications, such as Peacock, or joining the Student Government Association. AUP also offers a generous budget to start your own club.

New Academic Possibilities

While you may already have chosen a major, it is always possible to pick up a minor, or even second major, or just branch out by taking courses in different fields. AUP is now offering three new majors: Fashion Studies; Global French Studies; and Quantitative Economics and Finance; and will launch a new Masters in Fine Arts this fall. Don’t hesitate to meet with an academic advisor to consider your options!

 

Make the Most of Your Summer

Summer in Paris offers the perfect opportunity to explore both academic and personal growth. Whether you're looking to deepen your knowledge, enjoy Parisian cultural events, or recharge, there’s something for everyone. AUP Summer School is designed to inspire, offering you the chance to immerse yourself in subjects that spark your curiosity with topics as varied as poetry, art history, fashion, environmental science, and politics.

Physical Activities and Self Care

Wellness is not a luxury, it’s a priority. Check out the Wellness room where you can practice yoga and meditation, attend a variety of other wellness-based workshops or host your own event.

It’s never too late to get active. In addition to competitive team offerings, AUP students have access to discounted gym memberships. Also remember that AUP has a Health Office and offers Guidance Counseling. If ever you feel that your needs are not being met, or just that you need extra support, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Student Development Helpdesk.

As the semester picks up again, we encourage you to embrace all the opportunities that come with being part of the AUP community. Whether you're focused on broadening your academic horizons, exploring culture in Paris, or building connections, stay informed and up-to-date in order to make every moment count. Your time at AUP should be as much about personal growth as it is about academic achievement. Be curious, move toward your goals, and let this year be a transformative chapter in your journey. Happy new year!