Charlotte Beaubeau, of France, will begin pursuing her doctoral degree in Francophone studies this semester at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
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 UL Lafayette 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, UL Lafayette president, thanked students for choosing UL Lafayette, 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 UL Lafayette, 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.