By KatieBeth Clark
What got you into French in the first place?
When I was six years old, I started learning from this French woman whom my parents hired to teach me and my friends the language. She was from the Alliance Française in Boston, and my parents called them up and asked for a teacher, so she would come to my friend’s house in Dedham, and we would have gateau (cake) and learn about colors and stuff like that; my dad spoke Russian, German and some French so he wanted me to learn different languages, and my parents bought me French cartoon tapes and I would also learn the language through that; and of course I studied it throughout school and I loved it.
What got you into French in the first place?
When I was six years old, I started learning from this French woman whom my parents hired to teach me and my friends the language. She was from the Alliance Française in Boston, and my parents called them up and asked for a teacher, so she would come to my friend’s house in Dedham, and we would have gateau (cake) and learn about colors and stuff like that; my dad spoke Russian, German and some French so he wanted me to learn different languages, and my parents bought me French cartoon tapes and I would also learn the language through that; and of course I studied it throughout school and I loved it.
Do you prefer pre-generated curriculum to teach, French media, or a mixture of both?
I do a mixture of both. I base the general curriculum off of the “Bon Voyage!” textbooks, but I make my own worksheets and assessments. I also like looking on the internet for French media to use in class and to gain a deeper cultural understanding.
What is your most standout memory from your study abroad in Paris or France in general?
It’s hard to pick just one. I think just getting to the point of being comfortable in a foreign country like that, even just to the grocery store and back home, and realizing that life there is life everywhere; but something that stands out was when I was walking through the 14th arrondissement, not really with a plan or anything, maybe to go to a cafe and read, and I stumbled upon the Picasso museum and I loved that I found it by accident.
What’s your favorite event in history besides the French Revolution?
Probably the American Revolution (Yay, U.S.A.) because it’s such an incredible country despite all its flaws and it was created during the American Revolution, and it’s been a proud point in our history.
What’s your favorite French word?
I find it it funny how fast I can think of this, but it would have to be pamplemousse! I just think it’s such a great word and the fact that it just means grapefruit, it was always pretty fun to me.
What’s your favorite Disney movie?
I think I like "Beauty and the Beast" the best just because Belle is the most intellectual character of all the Disney princesses. She’s bookish, so I was always very bookish and I could relate to that.
Your favorite part of living on the Cape?
Being so close to the natural beauty, all of the ocean and sand-dunes, and to be that close to the beach is incredible.
Is there anything else I should know about you?
I absolutely love fashion, and I’m researching it all the time on the side, and I love art and film, and I love to write, so I have a passion for the arts in general.