Take advantage of the unique flavors of the French Alps. CEA offers a variety of local cultural activities to match your interests. Whether you enjoy music concerts, clubs, sports, cooking classes, language exchanges or something entirely different, our resident staff can help you get involved in the local culture.
F.A.C.E.
F.A.C.E.—Food, Art, Conversation, and Expression—is a bi-weekly gathering where you can learn about and share local cuisine (including the secrets of Grenoble's signature dish, gratin dauphinois), work on individual or group art projects, and express yourself through music and conversation. This team-building opportunity allows you to take a few hours to disconnect from your digital world and truly make an effort to reestablish face-to-face interaction with peers and occasional guest speakers. You're encouraged to share your feelings, ideas, experiences, and passions while interacting in an intimate and personal environment.
University-Sponsored French/International Exchange & Cultural Events
This program connects you with French LEA (Langue étrangères appliquées or Applied Foreign Languages) and LCE (Langue et civilisation étrangère or Foreign Civilization and Language) students through email. You’ll also enjoy organized international meals, dances, and weekend mountain hikes. Supplemental fees may apply.
Wine and Cheese Introduction
This popular event introduces you to a few (among hundreds!) possible combinations of French cheeses and wines. For example, learn which wine best goes with the local “bleu de Vercors” or which cheese goes well with Champagne.
Volunteer Opportunities
Immerse in local culture and language while making a difference in your host community by volunteering! You'll improve your language skills, meet new people, help those less fortunate, and promote goodwill between people of different nationalities and cultures. Volunteer opportunities are offered through a variety of local organizations and associations, such as:
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Collège Pierre Dubois: Interact with French middle school students and talk about your culture. It’s a great opportunity to meet people, discover a new culture, and involve yourself in French activities!
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Tourist Office: Help with translations or work with the public.
- Centre d’ Art Bastille: Help translate documents into English at this small contemporary art center.
- Les Restos du Coeur: Aid the homeless by providing meals and clothing.
- Secours Catholique: Work on projects to help the under-privileged throughout the city and region; volunteers may also offer administrative assistance or help with English lessons.
- Amnesty International: Work with this global human rights organization.