Welcome to the Soul of Culture: New Orleans!
This vibrant city is not just a key part of America's South; it's a living museum of music, history, and cultures unlike anywhere else in the country. With a rich heritage influenced by French and Spanish rule, New Orleans is a melting pot of traditions, cuisines, and stories that resonate through its cobblestone streets.

Why New Orleans?
Ever curious about what makes New Orleans' heart beat so uniquely? How its spirit and cultural depth could connect with your own journey to America? Our course explores these mysteries, showcasing how New Orleans' distinctive blend of cultures shapes its unforgettable character and zest for life.

Your Journey through New Orleans Includes:
- Classroom Learning: Immerse yourself in the essence of New Orleans, engaging with fellow au pairs in vibrant discussions and shared discoveries. Together, you'll dive into the soul of the city, enriching your experience with collective wisdom and newfound friendships.
- City Explorations: Venture beyond the classroom with our expert teacher/guide to explore the iconic French Quarter, serene Garden District, and historical cemeteries. Experience New Orleans' rich tapestry by walking its streets and riding public transit, truly living the city's rhythm and blues.

Why This Course Is Ideal for You: It’s a Community of Au Pairs!
We strive to have our educational courses serve as a gateway to building a network of au pairs just like you. As a result, this course offers a unique platform to connect, share experiences, and forge lasting friendships. Through the vibrant backdrop of New Orleans, you'll deepen your understanding of American culture while becoming part of a supportive au pair community.

Ready to Explore New Orleans?
Embark on a journey to discover the heart of New Orleans—a city of music, resilience, and cultural fusion. Join our New Orleans course!

OR … continue reading for more information!

What’s the class schedule?
March 14 - March 15, 2025 course
- Friday, March 14, 2025: Class begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 6:15 p.m.
- Saturday, March 15, 2025: Class begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 6 p.m.
Please note: Times reflect Central Time

Important: Students will receive a pre-assignment as well as a post-assignment. The pre-assignment will be sent to students at least one week before the start of class.

WhatsApp chat group
Please also note that as the start of classes draws near, we will send each student a link to a WhatsApp group that will allow us to communicate with students and students to communicate with one another about their plans in regard to travel, accommodations and more.

Where will classroom learning take place?
Classes will take place at 601 Poydras Street, New Orleans, in the heart of the city’s downtown.

What are the highlights of the city explorations?
The highlights of the city explorations include the following: French Quarter (Jackson Square, Royal Street, French Market, Mississippi River), Central Business District, Cafe du Monde, City Park, New Orleans Museum of Art Sculpture Garden, St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, Marigny/Frenchmen Street, Magazine Street and the Garden District.

Please keep in mind that plans are subject to change in light of factors such as the weather, time constraints, road closures and events taking place in the city during the time of your visit.

What should I know about accommodations?
Here are three hostels in New Orleans you may wish to consider:
- HI Hostel (1028 Canal Street)
- Madame Isabelle’s House in New Orleans (1021 Kerlerec Street)
- Quisby Hostel at 1225 St. Charles Avenue; nice but a bit farther away from the French Quarter area)

How much is tuition and what does it include?
The tuition price is $339 and includes the following:
- public transportation to get around the city with your teacher
- two meals
- all costs associated with the class (there are no additional material or activity fees!)

Please note that neither the cost of airfare to/from New Orleans nor overnight accommodations is included.

To make sure the course you’ve chosen is not already full, first sign up for the course and receive the enrollment confirmation we’ll email you.  Once that’s done, you may then book your air travel and accommodations.

What are the classes like?
Classes take place with your participation as well as that of your teacher and fellow students.  Classes require each student to take an active role in group discussions, activities, projects, etc.  In other words, your full attention and participation are required, whether it be in the classroom or out and about with your teacher.

We appreciate the fact that English is not the native language for most of our students.  Consequently our classes are designed around their needs and abilities.

What is the attendance policy?
Since each Learning Across America course consists of a limited number of class sessions, Towson University requires you to attend – and actively participate in – each class from its start time to its end time.  If you fail to do so, you will not be eligible to receive a certificate of completion.  Towson University carefully monitors class attendance.

If you plan to fly to New Orleans, please allow sufficient time to travel from the airport to class and back again.  Remember, you must attend each class and out and about session from start to finish in order to receive full credit.

How many credit hours will I earn?
Once you successfully complete this course, you’ll earn 36 hours of credit.

If you have additional questions regarding credit hours, please contact your au pair organization.

How soon will I receive my educational certificate?
Students will be given 3 weeks to complete their post-assignment and turn it into their teacher. Once you submit your post-assignment, you will receive your certificate of completion directly from Towson University within 10 days, assuming you have satisfactorily completed all course work. Feel free to turn your assignment in as soon as you complete it, as this will allow us to get your certificate to you sooner.

What is the cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel an in-person course, the following cancellation policy applies:
- If you cancel 22 or more days before the start of the first class, you will receive a full refund.
- If you cancel 21 to 11 days before the start of the first class, you will receive a full refund, minus a $50 cancellation fee.
- If you cancel 10 days or less before the start of the first class, you will not receive a refund.  Instead, you will receive a voucher that can be applied toward the tuition price of any Learning Across America course.  The voucher will be in the amount of the tuition you paid, minus a $75 cancellation fee.  The voucher is valid for one year and is transferable.
- Once the class begins, no refunds or vouchers will be issued.