Hi, my name is Natalie Gilstrap. I am a junior at Jenks High School, and have been studying the French language for the past 5 years. I was recently involved in the first part of a two part French Exchange program. Throughout this first part of the program, around 15 of my classmates and I had the opportunity to host French students from the Paris area. This experience primarily focused on improving the exchange students’ English comprehension and speaking, as well as showing off the wonderful state of Oklahoma. While the French students were here, we took multiple field trips including touring the University of Tulsa, Woolaroc, and even an Oklahoma City Thunder Basketball game. Outside of school sponsored events, me and a few of my classmates teamed up and showed them the mall, the lake, arcades, and introduced them to lacrosse and baseball, two sports that France does not have available to play. The experience not only showed me just how different America is compared to other countries, but it also gave me a little insight into how other areas of the world communicate! For the second part of the trip, the American students have the opportunity to travel to France, and stay with our exchange student and their families! At Jenks High School, my AP French class has focused directly on the French language, and its culture throughout history. Unlike the first part of the trip, this travel experience is geared towards improving our French speaking and comprehension skills, as well as experiencing the museums and landmarks that we have been studying in class all year, and years previous. During our 13-day stay, we have the chance to attend French school, see the Beaches of Normandy, walk around numerous landmarks and museums around Paris, and visit the Châteaux of the Loire Valley. However, the financial requirements for this trip are significant, and I am seeking support and aid to make this opportunity a reality. Your contribution, no matter the size, will directly impact my ability to participate and will play an important role in shaping my personal and academic growth. I am truly grateful for any support you can provide, and I am committed to representing the Jenks community positively during this experience!