On October 16, twenty French students from Lyon landed at LS as part of a unique exchange program designed to foster international friendships and cultural immersion. Over the course of ten days, these students not only experienced American life, but formed meaningful connections with their exchange partners.

Paul Conti, an LS junior, expressed how much he enjoyed the visit. “It’s been really fun,” he said, adding that he liked getting to know everyone involved, both American and French. He shared how the school-hosted events, such as apple picking at Honey Pot Hill Orchards, provided memorable experiences. Paul even took his exchange partner, Noë, to Raising Cane’s—a trip that, according to Noë, was a standout moment. “Everyone at LS is very friendly and nice,” Noë said; “I loved meeting the American students.”

Outside of school, students organized a whirlwind of activities, with many calling it the busiest week of their year. Pumpkin carving emerged as a highlight, as Halloween is not as widely celebrated in France as it is in the US. Katelyn Stagno, another junior at LS, stated that her “favorite part of the exchange was taking the students to our school’s football games. For many of them, this was an experience they had only seen in movies…our team spirit really amazed them,” and she emphasized how the games were emblematic of the sense of unity that LS has through sports, something that the French students hadn’t seen at home. Katelyn also noted how she loved getting to know her students and is “really looking forward to immersing [herself] in the culture.” 

Clémence Bocquet, one of the visiting French students, shared her impression of LS, noting, “It’s better than in France because the classes are easier, there’s less work, and the teachers are less strict.” LS’s French teachers backed this sentiment, lightheartedly reminding their American students of how easy they have it in comparison.

An unexpected benefit of the exchange was how it not only brought American and French students closer, but also helped students strengthen connections with their own peers. For many, this week was as much about bonding within their community as it was about exploring a new culture.