Natalie est arrivée en octobre en France pour travailler avec plusieurs écoles du secteur. Voici une petite interview de présentation
Can you introduce yourself briefly? Why did you choose France?
My name is Natalie, I’m 25 years old and I’m from Oakland, California (which is very close to San Francisco). I studied public health and French in university. I chose to come to France to develop my second language so I can eventually go into the health field and work with populations of 2 spoken languages.
Have you ever come to France?
Last year I was a language assistant in primary schools around Le Mans. I really loved the Sarthe but it has always been my dream to live around Lyon, so I’m very happy to have that chance this year.
In which schools are you working this year? What activities do you do in schools with the children?
This year I’m in 5 schools! École Jacques Prévert in Saint Chamond, école François Villon in Saint Chamond, école les Près-Verts in Saint Paul, école Langard in L’Horme, and école Le Moulinage in la Terrasse-Doizieux. Last year I worked a lot on American holidays but I’m hoping to sing songs and play games that help with basic vocabulary acquisition this year.
What surprised you in french schools?
I think the most surprising thing is how familiar each teacher and director is with each student. The schools in France tend to be smaller than those I went to in the United States, so it’s nice to see closer bonds between students and teachers.
What do you find difficult in your work as an assistant?
The language barrier is certainly difficult because my French isn’t 100% perfect. Another thing can be navigating public transit and getting to school on time because I’m not used to the grèves.
What do you like in this job?
I really love working with kids. It’s fun to see their English improve, and they help me improve my French. We’re growing our language skills together!
What are your plans for the coming years?
As I’ve said before, I want to work in the health field. If I stay in the United States I’d like to become a women’s health practitioner. I’m also very interested in doing a masters program in France, and if I go that direction, I’d like to work in food science and help develop food accessibility programs.
What is your favourite French word or sentence?
I love the French language because there are a lot more filler sentences than in English. For example “du coup”, “en fait”, “bah”. It’s cool to hear because they set the tone for the rhythm of the spoken language, which isn’t something you learn in a classroom in the United States.
What is for you the most difficult French word to say?
Two words come to mind: “bouilloire” and “écureuil”. I don’t quite have the muscles to properly pronounce them yet.
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