The American University of Paris

The American University of Paris (AUP) was established in 1962 by former US State Department official Lloyd DeLamater. The inspiration behind the formation of the AUP was to bridge the gap of nationalisms that narrow perspectives, creating an educational institution that would encourage students to explore countries, peoples and cultures far beyond their own birthplace. Joey Horn, who was raised in both Paris and New York, served as a trustee of the AUP between 2012 and 2013, just as the university was celebrating fifty years of life. She served on the Governance and Student Life committees of the Board.

In the Beginning

The original American University of Paris began life in a series of rented rooms underneath the American Church of Paris. The initial enrolment consisted of 100 students, attracted by the unique spirit of the university. DeLamater praised this first class of students publicly, emphasising not only their academic achievements but also their commitment to learning a second language. Many of the initial 100-student intake mastered the French language and demonstrated an ability to adapt to a new culture. The mission of the AUP revolves around the concept of facilitating the achievements of professional goals among students while encouraging them to cross borders, disciplines and cultures. You can find out more about how the AUP encourages global citizenship within the short video attachment to this post.

AUP Recent Survey Result

The American University of Paris annually surveys alumni to record professional progress. You can view some statistics from the most recent three-year survey in the attached infographic. The surveys, entitled “Next Destinations”, are sent out 18 months after graduation.

Undergraduate Results 2012 – 2014

The culturally diverse nature of the AUP is reflected in the fact that, amongst the classes that graduated between 2012 and 2014 (based on a 45% response rate to the survey), 78% of undergraduate alumni reported having some form of international element to their career. This ranges from those employed in a country that is not native to them, to those who travel internationally within their roles. The international exposure and experiences of students at the AUP ideally prepares them for work of this nature. Not only are students able to study in a multi-cultural environment, but they also have the opportunity during their time at the AUP to complete study trips abroad. This is further demonstrated by the fact that undergraduate alumni from the 2012-2014 classes have between them gone on to further education in no less than 17 separate countries worldwide. More than half (53%) of the surveyed students speak two languages fluently, while almost a third (33%) have fluency in three or more languages.