Jacie left for France almost a year ago in August 2016. She returned the end of June 2017 to Brighton. She lived in Laon, town

1/2 hour outside Paris towards Belgium. Her district 1670 was best in France.

 

She had 3 host families who she is still in contact with, including new friends. Her first host family were her favourite. 2nd family had 5 kids, including 4 boys, two younger and two older. Next host family had 4 kids including younger host sister who adopted Jacie and would drag her mattress into Jacie's room each night to sleep with her.

 

School was not a priority as credits don't count here at ENSS. But school days long, starting at 8am to 6pm. No sports or extra curricular activities at school. Cell phones were not allowed at school and would be taken away. She found the long days draining and she would return home and sleep.

 

She loved the food and gained 18 pounds.

 

Rotary had a 7pm curfew if she was out alone. Any trips or things required half dozen approvals from first host family to various Rotary councilors. It was a lot of paper work.

 

Appears American exchange students had some issues with host families. Jacie had all good host families.

 

She developed great friends, especially with other exchange students. She visited Canadian War Memorials including Vimy and Juno beach. Great bus trip to Spain and then Euro trip and memorable Easter.

 

Christmas was not a big deal in France.

 

Returning home has been difficult, some disagreements with her parents. She had a great exchange.