I had the privilege of studying law at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University for three weeks through Cornell Law School. If you are considering applying to and participating in this program, my insights may be helpful to you.

First, you need to prepare yourself ahead of time. To live comfortably in or around Paris, you need to make sure you know what you are doing and how to get around. I would suggest arriving in Paris at least a week before the program begins, because you’ll need to get accustomed to the time zone and your neighborhood.

I do not recommend checking a bag, even if you’re going to be in Europe for a month. Pack lightly. Bring only the essentials. Whatever else you need, you can get it when you arrive.

Since I enjoy building businesses and brands, I selected the two courses that seemed the most fitting—Corporate Governance: Corporate Acquisitions and Capital Structure and Comparative Contract Law in the Age of Automation. Corporate Governance was at 9am. So, again, make sure you allow yourself to get accustomed to the time zone.

Everyone also takes an introductory course on European law and legal procedure. Don’t stress about it—it’s required, but it isn’t graded and there’s no final exam.

The program kicks off with a welcome reception, and you should absolutely go. It’s your first chance to meet everyone over champagne and appetizers before classes start. Some of the people you meet that night will end up being the friends you explore Paris with for the next few weeks.

I’ve included a copy of the program schedule below. It’ll give you a good idea of what your days will actually look like.

After finals, everyone comes back together one last time for the closing reception. There are a few remarks from the faculty, certificates are handed out, and before you know it, you’re saying goodbye to people who were complete strangers just a few weeks earlier.

Studying law in Paris will likely be one of the highlights of your legal education. You’ll learn from exceptional professors, meet classmates from around the world, and spend a few unforgettable weeks living and studying in one of the world’s most iconic cities. If you’re considering the Cornell–Paris 1 program, I hope this gives you a better idea of what to expect. I also hope you enjoy the experience as much as I did.

Cornell-Paris 1 Summer 2026 Program Schedule