At THS, many clubs bring students together to share their love for something. Those who want to be more involved in the French language and culture should look towards the French Club. The club does many activities throughout the year to promote speaking French and being involved in the culture, and it is open to anyone willing to join, regardless of whether they are able to speak French or not.
“I think it adds to the excitement and the love of the language because it brings that fun aspect of getting out of the school building and using French or seeing it in a different way,” advisor Madame Julie Metzger said.
The club is year round and usually does one activity or event per month. Some events that they have done include: French plays and operas, picnics, Mardi Gras, Christmas, and Halloween parties, the Cleveland Museum of Art, Little Italy, and many more.
“Of course, a lot of it is culture with food, and everybody likes to eat. And it is a big part of French culture. We try to throw out quite a bit of the language and hopefully the kids can pick up some of that good language,” Metzger said. The club made crêpes for students during academy last Wednesday during French Week.
The club has five officers who are student leaders for the club and help with planning events and helping new members become more involved and comfortable with the club. The officers work together to make a welcoming environment for the club and ensuring that everyone feels included whether they’re brand new to French language and culture or already experienced is one of their main goals.
“We plan events, invite new members to join, and try to get everyone comfortable with the club,” senior officer Emma Bozic said.
Some of the favorite events that the club does is the Melting Pot, which is a restaurant in Lyndhurst which is known for their fondue pots and variety of foods to dip which many students said gives a lot of choices and the experience is worth the trip. Another favorite of the club is going to the Cleveland Museum of Art along with Little Italy to experience paintings and food that is outside of normal American culture.
“When we take field trips, it’s hands-on,” Metzger said. “They’re eating, they’re looking, they’re talking, which we can’t do in the classroom.”
