Write and Explore in the City of Lights
“To know Paris is to know a great deal.” – Henry Miller
“America is my country, and Paris is my hometown.” – Gertrude Stein
“There are only two places in the world where we can live happy: at home and in Paris.” – Ernest Hemingway
“Paris is always a good idea.” – Audrey Hepburn
No other city inspires and enchants the creative mind quite like Paris. For centuries, artists of all types have flocked to Paris to hone their crafts, learn from masters, and embark on artistic careers.
The Scholarship
The Paris Café Writing Scholarship at National Louis University for eligible students in the Communication and Media Program was established by Patricia Tennison, former writing instructor at National Louis University and founder of Paris Café Writing.
The student will take part in morning writing seminars through the Paris Café Writing program, led by Patricia Tennison. Ms. Tennison is a career journalist from the Chicago Tribune, an award-winning author, and a former NLU writing instructor who splits her time between Chicago and Paris. She has been leading the PCW program since 2011.
In the afternoons, the student will have time to explore the city, either independently or through planned activities. The PCW itinerary includes a walking tour through some of Paris’ historic and lively neighborhoods, a jazz concert, and several pre-planned meals at Parisian restaurants and cafes. No French language knowledge is required to apply.
The scholarship covers round-trip coach airfare from Chicago to Paris; the tuition for the May 22, 2027 session of Paris Café Writing in Paris, France; and seven nights' hotel, all up to a maximum of $4,000. The selected scholarship winner will be notified by September 1, 2026, for the summer 2027 session.
Learn more about the trip itinerary and the Paris Café Writing program.
How to Apply
Applications are due no later than Monday, August 10, 2026. For questions, please email Elizabeth Schaefer, Senior Director of Marketing, Communication, and UG Business Programs, at eschaefer@nl.edu
ApplyScholarship Guidelines