Students Explore Culture and Connection on Global Learning Excursion to France

Over spring break, Kent Place students in Grades 8–12 traveled to Nice and the South of France, immersing themselves in an experience that blended art, culture, and global engagement.

On the trip were Ellen Chen ’30, Indigo Daniels ’28, Sophia DeFoe ’27, Eva Joglekar ’29, Cecilia Kim ’28, Maddie Richter ’29, Isabella Urgilez ’29, Asha Varma ’29, and Jillian Wu ’30. Faculty chaperones were Katharine MacCornack (Upper School World Languages), Nadine Bernard (Upper School World Languages), and Neisha Payne (Middle School Director). Carey Gates (Upper School Chair of Visual Arts) assisted in planning the trip. The trip was made possible by the Kent Place Global Learning Program, led by Jennifer Dwyer, who is the Global Learning Coordinator and also teaches Upper School English.

Along the stunning Baie des Anges, students sketched seaside landscapes, visited the renowned Fondation Maeght, and studied the works and legacies of artists such as Henri Matisse and Marc Chagall. One of the highlights was seeing the chapel designed by Matisse, where students examined the intersection of art, spirituality, and architecture.

Beyond the arts, the group experienced the vibrant multicultural character of Nice. Walking through the markets of Vieux Nice, students encountered the sights, sounds, and flavors that define the region. A hands-on cooking lesson introduced them to the diverse influences on French cuisine, among them North African traditions, as they prepared and sampled local specialties.

Students also toured a perfume factory, where they learned about the region’s long-standing relationship with fragrance production and even created their own scents. They also explored the agricultural richness of the area, gaining insight into the cultivation of the fruits, flowers, and olive trees that shape the local economy and way of life.

“I really enjoyed our visit to the Fragonard and Boutique perfumery, where we learned how French perfume is made,” says Cecilia. “We even got to make our own personalized Fragonard perfume with scents like jasmine and peony.”

An especially meaningful component of the trip was cultural exchange. Students met with local peers, sharing perspectives and deepening their understanding of both French culture and their own identities as global citizens.

“My most memorable moment of the trip was our first dinner,” says Maddie. “I sat at the table talking and laughing with classmates I usually don’t get the chance to interact with at school. It was my birthday, and the entire restaurant sang to me in French. Even though the language was different and I was thousands of miles away from my family, I felt so at home and happy. It was a great start to the trip.”