George Walton Academy students participated in immersive exchange experiences in France and Spain, where they lived with host families and attended St. Denis International School in Loches or St. Paul’s School Barcelona. The exchanges blended language learning, cultural discovery, and personal growth, giving students a true taste of daily life abroad.
Travel throughout France brought history and geography to life. Alex Gervais said, “From Chamonix to Brittany, I saw many stunning landscapes,” including skiing near Mont Blanc and visiting iconic landmarks like Mont-Saint-Michel. He also shared that Loches stood out for its history, with “a large castle that once housed several French kings.”
Living with host families offered students an authentic look at everyday life. Caitlyn Roberts said, “Living with a host family helped me see what everyday life is like there, and I made some great friends.” Emily Chmielewski shared that “living with a French family really helped me get the real feeling of French culture,” adding that hearing and speaking French all day strengthened her confidence and understanding.
Kingston Guertin said the exchange allowed him to experience “multiple different cultures,” explaining that meeting students from around Europe and beyond helped him build friendships and memories “that will last me a lifetime.” He shared that the experience strengthened not only his French speaking skills but also his “cultural knowledge and understanding.”
Students in Spain experienced similar immersion through school, travel, and independence. Landry Atkinson shared that exploring Spain “through the lens of everyday life…made the culture feel real and personal,” and said the experience helped her feel confident, independent, and empowered while navigating a new country. Reflecting on the experience, Cohen Powers said the exchange “helped me become more globally aware and independent,” pushing him to adapt and grow in a new cultural setting.
Students also embraced new school routines abroad. Alex said he enjoyed “being able to eat out at lunch and having several recess periods a day,” noting that his exchange partner helped him feel welcomed and connected.
Through travel, friendships, and full immersion in French and Spanish life, GWA students returned home with lasting memories—and a broader view of the world.
