Fourth year Modern Languages Honours student Kevin Hudon is the most recent winner of the Fenêtre sur la Francophonie Award. As the latest recipient, he spent two weeks last summer immersed in French culture during a stay in Angers, France. Kevin notes that the experience allowed him to put his education to the test at while exploring European history, making new friends and experiencing a new culture.
The Fenêtre sur la Francophonie Award
The Fenêtre sur la Francophonie Award was created by faculty members from MSVU’s Department of Modern Languages and is awarded annually to an MSVU student specializing in French. This award allows students who have achieved outstanding results in French courses and demonstrated an interest in exploring French language and culture to embark on a two-week educational trip to France. During this time, students participate in a recommended language and culture program allowing them to embrace the richness of French culture.
Two Weeks in Angers
Angers is a city in western France located in the historic Loire Valley, a UNESCO would heritage site. Kevin notes that, “It is a city rich with history and filled with scenery where you can truly appreciate an authentic cultural French lifestyle. The locals say that it is «là oú il fait bon vivre», which translates to ‘where life is good’.” Upon his arrival in Angers, Kevin took the opportunity to learn about the city’s history by visiting the cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Maurice d’Angers), some museums, and the castle (Château d’Angers) before meeting up with his host family.
Université Catholique de l’Ouest
As a French major at MSVU, Kevin attended advanced French classes at l’Université Catholique de l’Ouest during his stay. The classes dove in to more complex subjects such as education, politics, and grammar which heavily aided in developing his French reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension skills. “Attending university in another country has helped me gain perspective on different styles of education,” says Kevin. “Since the program includes students from many countries around the world, it was fascinating to know more about people’s academic backgrounds, their aspirations and why they were so motivated to learn French.”
The People
The people of Angers are what made the experience for Kevin. His host Marie-Anne not only made amazing meals but developed a great connection with him. Kevin made a point to integrate himself with the locals by stepping out of his comfort zone; he would take a nightly walk in search of someone to talk to. Kevin says, “It turns out that the people of Angers are very approachable, and these interactions helped boost my confidence over time.”
On weekends, Kevin went on outings with his school group allowing them to learn more about daily life in France. On one trip, they saw a reenactment of French history dating back to the renaissance, while on another they explored the town of Saumur, spending the day visiting the castle, vineyards, churches, and gardens. To wrap up his stay in France, Kevin’s brother joined him from Brussels to explore some major spots around Paris such as Montmartre, the Louvre and l’Arc de Triomphe. “The city was especially vibrant then because of the summer Olympics and July 14 holiday [Bastille Day],” says Kevin.
The Experience
For Kevin, the trip to France through the Fenêtre sur la Francophonie Award was very valuable providing him lived insight into French culture. “Travelling is such an essential part of life to build experience and learn more about ourselves. It builds character and gives us a better understanding of the world and our place in it,” he says.