by Lana Epstein It’s been almost three weeks since the beginning of the program. With only one week to go, I feel that my knowledge of the French language and culture has significantly improved. Classes have been the perfect mix of fun and educational and the excursions in the afternoons and on the weekends have been amazing. In the past three weeks we have visited Nice, Eze, Saint Tropez, Monaco, Cannes, and several other cities along the coast. Twice now I have climbed to the chateau in Nice. The view is amazing and definitely worth the many stairs leading up to it. 
(From left to right: Matthieu, Ethan, Michelle, Eli, Antonia, Lana, Grant, Beckah, Joaquin.) One of my favourite things so far was the night of the World Cup. The fireworks were spectacular and the screen by the beach was amazing. Even though I was rooting for Argentina and Germany won, I still loved watching the game on the big screen. 
(From left to right: Kathryn, Lana, Hannah, Kris, Kendall.) Spending so much time with a French family has definitely helped me improve my accent and fluency. Conversations at dinner are my favourite. I and my roommates speak French and our host family speaks the occasional English phrase which makes us laugh. Julian and Melanie have been very nice and accommodating and their baby boy Jules is adorable. Spending evenings with them has definitely been a highlight. This program has been incredible and I am very glad to be a part of it. I look forward to spending the next week further expanding my knowledge of French and over all having a good time.