Charlotte Beaubeau, of France, will begin pursuing her doctoral degree in Francophone studies this semester at the 鶹AV.
It’s a decision she made, in part, after she was “really charmed by Louisiana” during a visit here two years ago.
“I thought, ‘What a great place to learn and experience Francophone culture,” she explained at Monday’s 鶹AV International Students Welcome and Reception.
Beaubeau was among more than 100 students and University and civic officials who attended the event at the Lafayette Consolidated Government building.
Dr. Joseph Savoie, 鶹AV president, thanked students for choosing 鶹AV, a place where they will receive an education and “broaden their horizons and opportunities,” while helping the community “learn things about the world.”
“Hopefully, we will learn much from each other,” Savoie said.
Rose Honneger, director of the Office of International Affairs at 鶹AV, said the welcome reception is one of many activities designed to help students get acclimated to the University and the community.
Joey Durel, city-parish president, also thanked international students for deciding to attend college in Lafayette. He predicted some students will end up settling in Acadiana. “Hopefullly, when you (graduate), we’ll keep you,” he said.