France is one of the top travel destinations on Earth, so it’s no wonder that many AHS students have also developed an interest in the country. Thus, French club was created, and throughout the years, it has gained much popularity.

What exactly happens during a French Club meeting? Current French Club secretary junior Samantha Lei, explained, “We learn about French culture through short presentations and fun videos. Once in awhile, we also have samples of cheese and other French delicacies, such as croissants, and when the French exchange students visit, we get to ask them questions to learn about their lives in France.” Moreover, French Club holds many fun, special events, which you definitely do not want to miss! Junior Chi Tsai, the ICC representative, expressed, “The biggest event of the year is either the cheese party at the beginning of the year or the banquet at the end of the year. The cheese party is the first after-school bonding event that French Club hosts, and we really get to know each other. We have the time to sit down, chat, and eat different types of cheese during the whole event. It really gives the officers and the club members a chance to form a new friendship. The banquet, on the other hand, is a special event because that’s when we wrap up our year and try some authentic French food for a really good price. During the banquet, everyone can reflect on their favorite or least-favorite moments with a laugh. Also, we celebrate the new members of the French Honor Society and have an initiation for them.”

So, why should people join French Club? Samantha enthused, “It’s fun! You get to meet new people, learn about the uniqueness of French culture, and even if you aren’t taking the class, you can still participate in all the activities.” Some of the current members, such as junior Joy Ormseth, are not taking French, but are still happy to be a part of the club. Joy proudly said, “I joined French Club because I wanted to get more involved in the school, and French Club combined my desire to meet more people and my love for European countries. I also want to go backpacking through Europe in the future, and France is definitely one of the destinations!” On the other hand, most members are part of AHS’ French program. For example, junior Stella Chen stated that “I joined the club because I’m in the class and if I join the club, I can be in French Honor Society.”

Do you like French cuisine, French fashion, or French language? If so, come check out French Club, on Mondays in J111, where all things French is discussed!

Photo courtesy of Chi Tsai