Summer FLE Program at EPF: a season of linguistic and cultural development
An unforgettable summer in the EPF FLE Program
This summer, EPF hosted its French as a Foreign Language (FLE) program, welcoming 58 students for an enriching and unforgettable experience in the heart of Paris. From July 15th to August 23rd, the program was packed with intensive French courses, cultural activities, and shared moments that will remain etched in memory.
Split between in-person and remote learning, the students enjoyed a comprehensive program with 25 hours of weekly classes on campus and 15 hours for those studying remotely. They were guided by a dedicated team of five lead FLE teachers and Sorbonne interns.
With a focus on learning scientific language, the students benefited from specialized courses in mathematics, mechanics, structures and materials, digital technology, and economics, led by expert instructors in these fields. These sessions allowed future engineers to develop precise technical vocabulary tailored to their academic and professional paths.
Cultural activities and projects: a multidimensional enrichment
One of the program's highlights was undoubtedly the cultural activities that accompanied the language learning. Students had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the performing arts through theater workshops led by Laure Guillem and explore the subtleties of French wine during a tasting session guided by Marc Carré. Cultural outings throughout Paris and an excursion to the Château de Vaux le Vicomte added a unique dimension to their stay, allowing them to discover the historical and artistic treasures of the region.
The program also featured two noteworthy scientific conferences. Maxime Bourgain, a researcher and head of the Engineering & Health major at EPF, delivered a lecture on the use of biomechanics and artificial intelligence to enhance sports performance and prevent injuries, offering students insights into the technologies employed in high-level sports. Architect Eric Cassar, meanwhile, discussed the impact of the Olympic Games on urban architecture, exploring how spaces are reinvented for these events while adopting a sustainable and visionary approach.
Students also took on the challenge of group projects, delving into exciting topics such as Olympic engineering and artificial intelligence. On August 23rd, they presented their work before a panel of professionals, showcasing their communication skills—and their French proficiency! —and their ability to work effectively in teams.
The program concluded on a festive note with an end-of-session reception, where students celebrated their achievements, shared their impressions, and bid farewell in a convivial atmosphere. This summer program not only enabled participants to improve their French but also offered a true cultural immersion in a Paris transformed by the organization of the Olympic Games, creating memories and friendships that will last well beyond the summer.
