From Sailing to Crepe Making: A Month of Fun in France
By Jade, Teen Summer Language Camp France: Saint-Malo, Summer 24
One of the most unique and rewarding experiences of my life was my time spent in Saint-Malo, France this past summer. I was not only immersed in French culture but was also surrounded by a melting pot of international students who all shared my sense of adventure and curiosity about the French language. The program I attended brought together people from all over the world, and what I thought would be a purely French cultural exchange turned out to be much more. I wasn’t just learning French and living with a host family – this experience introduced me to various cultures and languages that I had never anticipated.
When I first arrived, I expected to learn about French customs, language, and lifestyle. But soon I realized that my days were filled with meaningful connections with students from different parts of the globe. It was fascinating and heartwarming to witness people from such diverse backgrounds coming together, bonding over shared experiences, and learning about France together. From the very start, my classmates and I exchanged stories about our respective cultures, and I walked away with not only a deeper understanding of France and French culture but also newfound knowledge about countries and traditions far beyond its borders.
My host family was a key aspect to my learning. They were kind, caring, and treated me like one of their own. Every day, I was immersed in French—whether it was during meals, conversations, or when they recommended places for me to explore. They even showed me how certain foods were meant to be eaten the traditional French way! Because they only spoke French at home, my language skills improved tremendously, and I began to feel more confident using the language. I cannot imagine a better way to experience France and to really learn the language from locals.
At school, I had two teachers, each with their unique teaching style, yet both equally efficient in making learning fun and interactive. I remember one memorable activity where we went to a French supermarket to find various items, helping us practice vocabulary in a real-world setting. Every day was filled with opportunities to learn, not just from textbooks, but from experiences.
We also had an instructor who took us on exciting trips and activities after school. From mini-golf to crepe-making, there was always something new to look forward to. Saturdays were reserved for bigger adventures, like visiting the stunning Saint Mont-Michel or exploring the walled city of Saint Malo. One of the highlights was sailing, something I had never done before, but with the support and guidance of the staff, I felt safe and ended up loving it!
Reflecting on this month-long journey, I can truly say that it shaped me in more ways than one. I became more independent, learned not only about French culture but also about the cultures of my fellow students, and gained a newfound appreciation for different ways of life. This trip will forever remain a cherished memory, and I am incredibly grateful for the friendships, experiences, and lessons I gained along the way.
Learn more about Greenheart’s Teen Summer Language Camp France in Saint-Malo or Arcachon