Hey hey! My name is Lexi Sweezy and I’m currently a senior at the College of Charleston, although I will also be attending CofC next year as a fifth year (or “super senior” as I like to say). I transferred to the College last fall from Wofford College and I’m pursuing a double major in French & Francophone Studies and Foreign Language Education.

This fall I’m continuing my studies of the French language with the CofC program in La Rochelle, France. I chose this program because I wanted to study in a slightly less tourist-filled city. I figured a smaller city would give me more opportunities to practice my French and would also allow me to feel more like a “local”. This program also allows us to live with a host family and, for me, that is a necessity to help combat homesickness and also gives even more chances to practice French.

During my time abroad I would like to come out of my shell a bit more. In Charleston I find myself simply going through the motions of going to class, work, and then home; so, I would like to break that cycle while in France and push myself to do things I may not usually do. Another goal of mine is to incorporate more physical activity into my everyday routine. I have attempted to do so a few times in Charleston, to no avail, so I’m hoping to change that up during my time in La Rochelle.

Before applying to the program, I honestly didn’t do much research. I have a friend who participated in this same program a previous year and she had nothing but good things to say. I also work at a small French café on George St. (Breizh Pan Crêpes, I highly recommend) and my bosses are from a region in Northern France, so they were able to tell me all about La Rochelle.

This will be my first time ever traveling outside of the country, so I can’t wait to share my experiences with you guys!