A Dream.
That is the best term to describe Céleste Lecléve’s time in the United States.
Since Céleste was a kid, she has dreamed of coming to the U.S. She wanted to learn how the school system works and discover a new way of life. This has always been something very important to her.
“It’s so enriching, and it brings a lot of opportunities for the future,” Céleste said.
Céleste made it her personal choice to come to the U.S. Her family and friends encouraged her to pursue her dream and helped tremendously before coming here.
Céleste started planning her time in the U.S. in the summer of 2022.
“Planning to come to the U.S. took a lot of work,” she said. “I needed to do all of the paperwork to find a host family, medicine testing, Visa papers, and had to go to Paris to do it.”
So far, Céleste is loving her time here. She loves all the opportunities that have come her way.
”It’s just the perfect place to study and live as a student,” she said.
She enjoys all the events that Prior Lake has to offer such as homecoming week, sporting events, and different clubs and activities.
However, French schooling is very different from American schooling. There are a lot more rules and more things you are learning at the same time.
“In France, we have the same people in every class, don’t have as many classes, and get a longer lunch break and breaks throughout the day,” Céleste said.
Céleste has already graduated in France, but after speaking to former exchange students, she was told going back to school in France after being in the U.S. is actually harder.
“All my friends are currently in different cities or countries for their college year, so it was easier for me to be far away from them since they are in different places as well.”
Upon arriving in the U.S., Céleste knew right away she wanted to go to the Mall of America.
“I wanted to see it in real life, while discovering new food that we don’t have in France.”
Céleste’s friends say since meeting her, they have gotten to know her very well and enjoy spending time with her.
“When we hang out, we always enjoy watching football, hockey, basketball or going shopping,” said senior Bella Gagliardi.
Although Céleste has had a lot of help from her friends and host family, she has also created relationships with her teachers that help her if she doesn’t understand something.
“I have met the most amazing people, made great friends, and built relationships with teachers since I have been here, and I am so grateful for this experience,” Céleste said.
