Why spend your first year abroad?

Through AUP, you have the option to spend your first year abroad in Paris, France, earning credits that are fully recognized by USC. Spending your first year abroad at AUP is a transformative experience that will set you up for future success. You’ll gain independence, develop problem-solving skills, and learn how to adapt to new situations. Not only are these skills that will help you as you advance in your university career, but they are skills that can set you apart when you start applying for internships.

Studying at AUP also give you the option to take USC pre-approved core curriculum classes in an international setting, allowing you to study these topics with an added global perspective you might not be able to get anywhere else. Studying abroad early also gives you the opportunity to plan additional study abroad options in later semesters or give you more time to do internships before you graduate.

Starting your university career is a huge transition–it will likely be your first time living away from home, and the first time you are responsible for your own schedule. This can be tough regardless of where you choose to attend, but it’s important to acknowledge that starting abroad comes with its own set of challenges.

You will find yourself in a different country and cultural context as well as a different learning environment, where expectations in and around the classroom call for quick thinking and flexibility. This requires a certain level of maturity, confidence and independent thinking that might not suit all students, but if you do have these qualities, you can expect to thrive at AUP.