Monuments & Memory
Zachary Scovel
French & Italian
I had always been fascinated with foreign languages; a spark that was ignited when I first began learning German from an old Berlitz German Phrase Book I bought at a garage sale for 10 cents when I was 12. This snowballed into studying Spanish, French and German in school and studying abroad along the way to getting my Ph.D. in French and Francophone Studies. I created this program because of my love for traveling and experiencing the cultures and languages of the world. When I first studied abroad in Paris, my worldview was immediately expanded, and my hope is to pass this experience along to my students at all levels, no matter their field of study. Currently, I am a Lecturer and Language Program Coordinator for the French language series in the Department of French and Italian where I aim to put the student experience first.
A Message to Students and Parents
I am so excited to welcome you to Paris! This city holds a special place in my heart because it is where I first studied abroad, and I hope to share some of the richness and inspiration it has given me. As an undergraduate, I came to Paris to study French theater and improve my language skills, but I left with something much more meaningful: a deep sense of connection, creativity and belonging. What continues to draw me back is the Parisian lifestyle—shopping at neighborhood markets, spending hours at a café with a good book while people-watching and exploring the city with the ease of the metro.
I believe Paris is an ideal place for students to build confidence and independence, especially if it's their first time traveling internationally. My goal is to introduce you to a side of Paris that goes beyond its famous landmarks and stereotypes. Throughout the course, we'll explore how art, history and public spaces shape the city's identity by learning to "read" its monuments and museums as expressions of France's cultural and historical past.
Just as importantly, I want you to experience Paris as a local. Through immersive activities, you'll engage with the city's neighborhoods, culture and daily life rather than simply observe them. By the end of the program, I hope you'll leave with a deeper understanding of the relationship between art and history, lasting memories of living in one of the world's great cities and the confidence to continue exploring the world on your own. No French experience is required, but don't be surprised if you pick up some of the language along the way—and maybe even decide to keep learning after the program ends."