Deonte Holden Redefines What’s Possible for Student-Athletes with a Study Abroad Experience in Paris, France

Paris is often celebrated for its romance, monuments, and timeless culture, but for Deonte Holden, the city became something much more: the classroom that changed his life.

While most Division I football players spend every offseason locked into training, Holden made an unconventional choice. He traded in the gridiron at NC State for the lecture halls of SKEMA Business School, enrolling in the Global Luxury and Management program — a unique partnership with NC State’s Poole College of Management.

Breaking Tradition as a Student-Athlete

For full-scholarship athletes, skipping even part of a season for academics abroad is nearly unheard of. Yet with the encouragement of leaders like Michael Lipitz, Maulies Pettaway, Kathleen Black, Kristie McGowan, and Coach Dave Doeren, Holden stepped into a path few had ever considered. The decision didn’t just take courage — it redefined what student-athletes can aspire to achieve.

Immersed in the World of Luxury

In Paris, Holden’s education extended far beyond textbooks. His program opened doors to the world of global fashion and luxury, offering exclusive access to houses like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior. Projects with brands such as Jo Malone gave him a hands-on understanding of how creativity, culture, and commerce intersect in one of the world’s most competitive industries.

A Global Classroom

Paris became the anchor, but Holden’s classroom spanned continents. He experienced the luxury markets of Dubai, absorbed the energy of Barcelona, traced history in Rome, shopped the style capitals of London, and marveled at Monaco’s Monte Carlo. Each city added another layer to his perspective, proving education has no borders.

Inspiring the Birth of a Brand

Those experiences planted the seeds for Gaveen, Holden’s own fashion brand. More than a label, Gaveen reflects his journey — a fusion of European sophistication, athletic discipline, and a commitment to self-improvement

The Bigger Picture

Holden’s story underscores a powerful truth: student-athletes don’t have to choose between sports and scholarship. With vision, support, and courage, they can expand the definition of success and explore opportunities that transcend both the field and the classroom.

In conclusion, Deonte Holden's overseas studies perfectly highlight the intersection of sports, academics, and fashion. It's a vivid reminder that dreams have no boundaries, and with the right spirit and support, they can indeed come true.