The chance of a lifetime
Students spend two weeks in Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics.
For students enrolled in a KN experiential learning program this summer, it was the chance of a lifetime: two weeks in Paris at the 2024 Summer Olympics.
“This trip embodies what education should be — engaging, immersive and transformative,” said Annmarie Chizewski, KN assistant director of experiential learning, who accompanied the students in the Sports and Society in Paris program.
“Being at an Olympic venue, witnessing the convergence of global cultures and the pinnacle of athletic achievement, is an unparalleled educational opportunity.”
The students, who are majoring in nutrition, kinesiology and other health and sports-related fields, watched Olympic events, attended seminars and carried out research and other assignments, earning KN course credit.
Topics included the intersection of sport, culture and society in different countries; issues like race, economics, ethnicity and politics in relation to the Olympics; and how a major sporting event impacts a city.
Students hear from French policy makers and other experts.
Students hear from French policy makers and other experts.
“The group is tackling some of the larger questions that are as exciting as the games,” said Kyle Rausch, executive director of the Study Abroad Office at UIC, who also accompanied the group to Paris.
Students visit the Arc de Triomphe.
Students visit the Arc de Triomphe.
Students visit the Palace of Versailles.
Students visit the Palace of Versailles.
Students visit the Cathedral of Notre Dame. (Photo: Kyle Rausch)
Students visit the Cathedral of Notre Dame. (Photo: Kyle Rausch)
The students observed the work of sports medicine professionals, event organizers, media and policymakers from all over the world.
“This comprehensive view will help them better understand the various career paths available in kinesiology and how their studies apply in real-world contexts,” Chizewski said.
“I’m pursuing a career as a sports dietitian, and this is an invaluable opportunity to make lasting connections in the fitness world,” said Alyssa Squeo, a junior majoring in nutrition.
The students were also encouraged to experience the culture of their host city.
“The chance to explore this beautiful city while witnessing the Olympics is a pinch-me moment,” Squeo said.
Gabby Richards at the Arc de Triomphe.
Gabby Richards at the Arc de Triomphe.
Gabby Richards, a junior in kinesiology and a member of the UIC swimming and diving team, saw the Olympics from an athlete’s point of view.
“The city is buzzing with energy and excitement, and I’ve had the chance to meet people from all over the world,” Richards said. “It’s a cool opportunity to combine my studies with the vibrant atmosphere of the games.”
The program, hosted by the UIC Study Abroad Office and sponsored by AHS, is a dream come true for Chizewski. Her earlier plans to develop a study abroad program had been derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This course is designed to be more than just an academic experience — it's an investment in shaping a more socially just, diverse and equitable world,” Chizewski said.
“I want them to leave this trip with a deeper understanding of how sport can be a powerful catalyst for positive change.”
Watch below how UIC students Zaven Dadekian and Gabriel Martinez spent a day in the Sports and Society in Paris UIC Study Abroad program sponsored by AHS.
Photos provided by Annmarie Chizewski, Kyle Rausch, UIC Study Abroad and participating students.
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