Experiencing France: A Summer in a Host Family for High School Students
Spending a summer living with a host family in France is a life-changing experience for high school students. Imagine waking up to the smell of fresh baguettes, hearing the gentle hum of French conversations, and truly living the French way of life from morning till night. It’s not just about improving language skills but about fully immersing in a different culture and building connections that go far beyond borders.
Staying with a volunteer host family means you’re part of an authentic, welcoming environment. Host families open their homes because they genuinely want to share their culture and get to know new perspectives. As a student, this means every day is filled with real, hands-on learning experiences—whether it’s helping prepare a family meal, navigating local markets, or joining the family on weekend outings to explore the local area.
Being part of a French family brings countless benefits. It accelerates language learning as you naturally pick up conversational French and start to feel at ease speaking it in day-to-day interactions. You’ll get insights into French customs, local traditions, and maybe even find a new favorite dish! By the end of the summer, you’ll have created unforgettable memories and friendships, bringing a piece of France back with you that will stay with you for life.
A summer spent in France with a host family is a meaningful adventure that allows students to grow, broaden their horizons, and return home with a new outlook and skills they’ll carry forward.
By Hector Bachelot