My friend Regina and I were invited to the nearby high school to speak on our experience growing up immersed within a different culture. We got to speak in Spanish with other French students and answered many of their questions. This was a very eye opening experience as I got to see how french students view different cultures and I was also able to see myself transition between three languages, which surprised me.

I took this picture when I went to see the light show during christmas time in the city center. I was with my host mom, host sister, and host grandma that was in Rennes visiting. This picture is a great memory because it was nice to hear the others around me gasping in disbelief at how cool the light show was. I also saw many little kids mesmerized by the colorful lights which made the experience all the better.

I started volunteering at the Franco-Americain Institut the first couple of weeks when I arrived here in France. The club that I am a part of and lead with two other SYA students is a discussion club where French students come and practice their English through different activities. I met all of the French students in October and I now know them very well, and sometimes see them on the streets of Rennes. Seeing how much they have progressed has brought me so much joy!

This past December, I took an independent travel trip to Strasbourg with my friend Annie. We spent a night and two days there where we really took in the christmas markets and the ambiance. Seeing the Notre Dame Cathedral of Strasbourg for the first time is truly something I will never forget. Being able to independently navigate the city and even transport was such a fun experience, especially to do with a friend. This small trip will forever hold a special place in my heart.