Paul was essentially bilingual from birth. He spoke Italian and English at home. His love of foreign language includes, in addition to Italian, English and French, the study of Latin, Spanish and German. As a teen and young adult he and his family traveled regularly to Europe to visit with family and friends. It was natural then that he would pursue a career in foreign languages.

Paul has resided in St. Louis, Missouri since 1973 Now that he is "really" retired Paul gives private lessons in Italian and French and does volunteer work for several organizations. Paul has traveled extensively in Europe and maintains close ties with friends and colleagues in many European countries.

In November 2009 he was granted Italian citizenship and now has dual citizenship with the USA and Italy. Paul received the Ordre des Palmes Acadmiques, an honor given by the French government to recognize individuals who have made notable contributions to French education and culture.