The students, who were cared for by Carlmont host families, enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime experience where they had the opportunity to observe the the many differences between American and French life.

Eight grader Chloé Masero said, “School is very different here. The teachers are cooler and more involved with students.”

Sophomore Veronica Pontis, whose family hosted Masero, explained, “Classes are more difficult over there. She takes two languages classes, so she knows Spanish, English, and France, but I only take one. Also, they begin learning languages at a younger age.”

At Masero’s school, students have different teachers for different subjects, but the students in each of the classes are always constant. She is surrounded by the same students throughout the day.

Pontis said, “It was very interesting to see Chloé’s reactions to different things, like school and sports. In France, girls don’t play sports.”

Masero realized just how different sports are in America when she watched Pontis’ team win State Cup for their CYSA soccer team.

French freshman Arnaud Barennes enjoyed American novelties that cannot be found where he lives. “My favorite thing that I did was shopping because we have different stores in France. I also liked [American] football.”

Pontis said that the best moment that occured during Masero’s stay was “when we went to San Francisco, because it was really fun. Chloé also really enjoyed driving around with my friends because in France, you are not allowed to drive until you’re 18.”

The French students thuroughly enjoyed their stays.

Barennes said, “I liked everything about America.”

“People over here are very cool, fun, and easygoing,” said Masero.

Both Barennes and Masero said that they would “definitely come back” to America.

Many of the host students intend to keep in touch with their French counterparts.

Pontis said, “We are going to email and skype each other, and I plan on seeing Chloé next summer when Carlmont has its exchange program go to the region where our guest families came from.”