I left last November to go to France. I was lucky enough to go on exchange to France on the 6 weeks White Christmas program. I went to a beautiful town called Bons-en-Chablais in East of France on the border of Switzerland in the Alps. (Photo: I am in the middle with my twin host sisters)
My host family was extremely welcoming and I felt like a part of their family straight away. They were exceptionally inclusive, kind and welcoming and I developed a very close bond with my host sisters and I still keep in contact with them now. I made a lot of friends during my stay in France, mainly at school but also during the holidays.
During the first three weeks of my stay, I went to a French high school. It was great to see how different school is in France. This is where my French improved the most. The first week in France, I was a little scared to speak French but then after a couple of weeks, I was able to talk more fluently and sustain conversations in French.
My host parents were exceptionally kind and considerate and took me to many places such as Geneva, Thonon-les-Bains, Switzerland, Lausanne, Olympic Park, Annecy, Chamonix and I even went Skiing and Evian-les-bains and there was lots of snow it was like paradise. I receive great support from Study Abroad Campus Education prior to leaving and when I was in France, Jennifer was available whenever I need assistance.
I spent Christmas with my host mother’s family, they lived in a very small village in the countryside in centre of France. They too were extremely nice and welcoming. I was able to meet their family and see the countryside of Europe. I noticed that when I came back to Australia that not only my French improved immensely, but my Japanese and music did as well! I think this is because my overall memory improved, and I noticed that I am learning things faster doesn’t matter what subject I am studying.
I think overall that the exchange was a life-changing experience and I made lifelong friends and memories which I will cherish forever. I look forward to seeing my host sisters later this year as they are also keen to come to visit my family.
Thank you Study Abroad for making my French dream come true!
