La Guide de voyage avec Alex
Bonjour! Hello! Learning a new language is an amazing experience. Vocabulary is an integral part of every culture, and the French are no different. However, there is a special set of vocabulary for Adventist Colleges Abroad (ACA) international travelers. All of it is relatable for ACA international travelers, some bringing forward fond memories and others eliciting groans of shared misery. Buckle up and get ready to learn some of this vocab France-style!
Attiserage dan France- Landing in France. Congratulations! You have successfully landed in your country of choice, hopefully without too much hassle. Grab your bags and try not to look confused as you find your ride to your ACA school. Depending on when you arrive you may travel to your school alone or with other students to the school of choice.
Sécurité Aéroportuaire- Airport security! It would appear that you are needed by the men in blue. Or black. Or in full military gear. In France, airport attacks are highly discouraged and steps have been taken to ensure they don't happen. Unfortunately, this process leads to random security checks which I have had the pleasure of experiencing multiple times.
Décalage Horaire- Two distasteful french words that every international traveler is familiar with in their native language. In English, this translates to jet lag. One of the many prices of travel, albeit a less noticeable cost than the gaping hole in one's bank account. Common side effects are a general sense of miserable with a side of fatigue. On a truly unlucky note -- school begins the day after you arrive, unless you come early, so good luck!
Test de placement- The placement test. This happens on the second day of your arrival and tests you over a language you have not yet learned. While muddling through jet lag and a seven-hour time difference, it will determine what you will be studying for the rest of the trimester. Good luck!
Class A2- This is the class for those who want only the formality of being in class. They already know how to live and travel comfortably within the country. While they do get to learn, it’s advanced enough that it flies by in no time.
Class A1.2- This is the class for people who took French in high school. Technically they know the language, but any native speaker will smile as they blunder over the words. Often grammar is nonexistent and wordplay is off the table. They know enough to survive. Maybe.
Class A1- Thank you for coming! No, duolingo doesn't count, but it was a noble attempt. The people in this class came to learn and learn they will. Even without a basic comprehension of anything language, they came ready for an experience. Which they will get, no problem.
Alexander Nesmith is a sophomore studying communication.