Better than I ever would have imagined!

When I left for my year abroad in France at the end of August 2014, I had enough background with the language to believe that I would adapt easily to my life there with a French family and a new culture. It was intimidating, but I felt confident getting on my plane out of Cleveland. My first few weeks with my host family were challenging, but they were consistently helpful and understanding of any difficulties I experienced. I was invited to parties with extended family, and everyone else was extremely accommodating as well. It took me about 6 months until I got comfortable enough in large groups to be at ease with my speaking and comprehension abilities. By the time I went to my host dad's birthday party in May 2015, I was convinced that I would be able to communicate with anyone I crossed paths with there. I was right! I was able to hold my own whenever necessary, understand multiple conversations at once, and respond to anyone as naturally as I would in my own language, English. I felt like I belonged there as everyone was so accepting of my place there and so kind to me throughout the evening. Now, I had plenty of opportunities to take part in tourist activities throughout Paris during my stay there, but the highlight of my whole journey was this party. It felt great to know that I had improved in my communication far better and faster than I thought possible. This was certainly all due to my magnificent host family. I will forever be grateful to them for accepting me into their home like another family member and helping me advance in so many areas of my life during my time there. I will definitely go back to see them again soon! I never dreamed that I'd have a second family in France during my lifetime!!