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Why Study in France?

Why study in France with the Hamilton College Junior Year in France?

A solid experience abroad is an essential component of a liberal arts education. As European issues take on greater significance with the formation of the European Union, a deeper knowledge of foreign languages and cultures is now more important than ever for the well-rounded student.

Founded in 1957, the Hamilton Junior Year in France offers an exciting academic and cultural program in France that allows students to take a wide variety of courses at institutes of higher education in Paris as well as courses taught by French faculty that are designed especially for students of the HCJYF.

Dreamlike view of the Seine river, and the Pont Neuf, a walking distance from Reid Hall.

Who attends the HCJYF?

The Hamilton program in Paris attracts students considering careers in Government and non-profit agencies; international business; foreign service; education; medicine; and international law. Many students on the program major in Political Science, Studio Art and Art History, History, and, of course, French. Pre-med students who have studied abroad extensively can be at an advantage too. A year's study in France is often an important asset in securing graduate fellowships, graduate assistantships, and teaching positions.

The nine-month duration of Hamilton's academic program gives students ample opportunity to become proficient in French and immerse in the many facets of life in France. Students are encouraged to volunteer, play sports and music, and continue any activity they have on their home campus. This year should not be apart, but enhance students' life.

Exceptionally, the HCJYF accepts semester students from affiliate schools who are majoring in the Sciences; Computer Science, or Math or, alternatively, who need to pursue coursework in their major off-campus during one semester of the year they plan to study in France.

What are the HCJYF Main Features?

  1. Nine months in Paris, one of the most exciting, cosmopolitan and safe cities in the world,
  2. Orientation in Biarritz, in the South West of France, and Paris 
  3. Reid Hall, the program's headquarters, is situated just a few blocks away from the culturally vibrant Latin Quarter
  4. Small group, for close attention (30-35 students on average)
  5. Home-stays (half-board) in Parisian residences, within Paris city limits, for a full immersion experience, sustained language practice, and better integration
  6. Large selection of courses at Parisian institutions as well as a selection of in-house courses 
  7. Students pledge to speak French only with members of the group
  8. Day and overnight field trips included in the general fee
  9. Coordination and supervision by a Hamilton College faculty member who serves as the Director in-Residence and who lives close to Reid Hall during the year, and a permanent Assistant Director.