In 1927, the first Smith College juniors studied abroad in Paris, France. Nine years later, in 1936, the Association of Former Juniors in France was established by college alumnae who had participated in the Paris Junior Year Abroad program. The primary goal of the association was to fund a scholarship for future Smith students to study abroad in France. The secondary aim of the members was to stay up-to-date on information regarding both France and the Smith students currently studying abroad in the country. In addition, the association raised money to aid French soldiers and refugees displaced due to World War II, including sponsoring French children and their families. Holding an annual dinner in New York City, the members actively fundraised while reconnecting with old friends and maintaining a strong alumnae network. The association also published a newsletter, Trait D'Union, which included articles from both former and current Smith students, commentary from various professors, and updates on French politics, music, cinema, and books. While having a lively membership for over thirty years, the Association of Former Juniors in France was no longer active by the mid-1970s.
From the guide to the Association of Former Juniors in France Records RG 50., 1925-1973, (Smith College Archives)
