After studying French in school for four years and loving it, an immersion program was a natural next step for me––simple, effective, and just outside my comfort zone. Though it took some effort to get the ball rolling, ECI's staff and the host family coordinator were eager to help every step of the way. My host family was very welcoming––my host mom was always eager to show me around and teach me new words; my host dad tested my comprehension skills with questions about the US and France; and my host sister brought me along everywhere on adventures with her friends. Everyone I met was accommodating, friendly, and eager to hear about what I thought of both the US and France. Be prepared for some uncomfortable experiences––those can be the best ones! My host family took me to the wedding of some Algerian friends––dinner started at 9pm, and we got home at 3am! Whatever I was doing, I was always improving my french, with the help of my host family and friends. Speaking French has become almost second-nature after those two weeks, and I couldn't have done it without ECI!

My daughter had an extremely successful immersion experience last summer for 2.5 weeks in a small village outside of Gap. Growing up in California, but with a French father, she speaks and understands French, but not fluently. The program overall and her host family, in particular, really provided the opportunity for her to improve her French and get a deeper sense for the culture. They welcomed her warmly into their home and organized outings to local towns and activities. Initially, the adjustment was a bit overwhelming for my daughter (jet lag, new people, constant French, etc), but the local team, Roseline and Geraldine, were amazing in their response and care they provided for her. As a parent, I felt very comfortable that my daughter was in good and caring hands and they connected with her to relieve her stress. Once she got a good night's sleep, she was fully engaged with the family and enjoyed every minute. In fact, when she returned home, after "hello", her comment was "I wish I was back in France".